Directions: Read the passage and answer the questions that follow in complete sentences. (20 points)

Psalm 23

From The King James Bible

[1] The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

[2] He maketh me to lie down in green [1] pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

[3] He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

[4] 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.

[5] Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest [2] my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

[6] 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. [3]

Footnotes

[1] 23:2 green...: Heb. pastures of tender grass

[2] 23:5 anointest: Heb. makest fat

[3] 23:6 for ever: Heb. to length of days

Review and Assess

1. Respond: Which phrases, if any, in Psalm 23 are familiar to you?
2. What image is developed in the opening verse?
3. Why might this image provide comfort to listeners?
4. How do the added images of the valley of death an of enemies strengthen the psalm?
5. What is the message of the psalm?
6. Does the psalm offer comfort, express hope of comfort, or both?
7. What images of comfort and guidance might a modern psalm writer use?