Psalms 23:6

Authorized King James Version

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַ֤ךְ׀
H389
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#2
ט֤וֹב
H2896
Surely goodness
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
#3
וָחֶ֣סֶד
H2617
and mercy
kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty
#4
יִ֭רְדְּפוּנִי
H7291
shall follow
to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)
#5
כָּל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
יָמִֽים׃
H3117
me all the days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#7
חַיָּ֑י
H2416
of my life
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
#8
וְשַׁבְתִּ֥י
H3427
and I will dwell
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#9
בְּבֵית
H1004
in the house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#10
יְ֝הוָ֗ה
H3068
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#11
לְאֹ֣רֶךְ
H753
for ever
length
#12
יָמִֽים׃
H3117
me all the days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights divine love through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of life connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about life, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of divine love within the theological tradition of Psalms Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection