What does Psalm 23:4 mean?
The scene now darkens. "The valley of the shadow of death" pictures a deep, dark ravine where danger is close, and it stands for life's most frightening moments: grief, illness, and death itself. Notice that David walks through the valley; it is not his final home. His lack of fear does not come from an absence of danger but from a presence: "thou art with me." Here he shifts from speaking about God to speaking directly to him. The shepherd's rod drove off predators and his staff guided the sheep, so both tools comforted David with the assurance of protection and direction.
Psalm 23:4 in the King James Version
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Context
3 He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Psalm 23:4 mean?
The scene now darkens. "The valley of the shadow of death" pictures a deep, dark ravine where danger is close, and it stands for life's most frightening moments: grief, illness, and death itself. Notice that David walks through the valley; it is not his final home. His lack of fear does not come from an absence of danger but from a presence: "thou art with me." Here he shifts from speaking about God to speaking directly to him. The shepherd's rod drove off predators and his staff guided the sheep, so both tools comforted David with the assurance of protection and direction.
What does Psalm 23:4 say in the KJV?
Psalm 23:4 (KJV) reads: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”