Psalms 23:5
What does Psalms 23:5 mean?
A plain-English look at Psalms 23:5 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Psalms 23:5 means
This verse shifts the imagery from shepherd and sheep to a generous host and honored guest, further illustrating God's abundant provision and protection. A "table prepared in the presence of mine enemies" speaks of God providing lavishly even amidst adversity, showcasing His power and the security of His people. The anointing of the head with oil was a sign of honor and refreshment, while a "cup runneth over" signifies overflowing blessing and abundance. These acts collectively affirm God's extravagant favor and personal care for the psalmist.
Psalms 23:5 in context
Psalms 23 — The Lord is My Shepherd
The most-loved psalm in the Bible. David, himself once a shepherd, confesses that the LORD is his shepherd; therefore he shall not want. Green pastures, still waters, paths of righteousness, the dark valley, the prepared table, the overflowing cup, the goodness and mercy that follow him every day, and the house of the LORD forever — every line is the language of trust. The psalm passes from green pastures to the valley of the shadow of death without panic, because the same Shepherd walks both.
- Providence
- God's presence
- Comfort in suffering
- Eternal hope
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup runneth over.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup runneth over.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949You make ready a table for me in front of my haters: you put oil on my head; my cup is overflowing.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Thou arrangest before me a table, Over-against my adversaries, Thou hast anointed with oil my head, My cup is full!
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, and mercy from God his Saviour.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Context
Following the victorious declaration of fearlessness in the valley of death, this verse highlights God's protective and abundant provision in an even more remarkable way. It moves from mere survival to triumph and honor in the face of adversaries, emphasizing God's ability to bless and exalt His own despite hostile circumstances. This scene of overflowing blessing logically leads into the confident expectation of perpetual goodness and eternal dwelling with God.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Ephesians 3:20
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
- Psalms 78:19
Yea, they spake against God; They said, Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?
- Psalms 22:29
All the fat ones of the earth shall eat and worship: All they that go down to the dust shall bow before him, Even he that cannot keep his soul alive.
- Psalms 116:13
I will take the cup of salvation, And call upon the name of Jehovah.
- Isaiah 25:6
And in this mountain will Jehovah of hosts make unto all peoples a feast of fat things, a feast of wines on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined.
- Psalms 31:19
Oh how great is thy goodness, Which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee, Which thou hast wrought for them that take refuge in thee, Before the sons of men!
Sermon ideas from Psalms 23:5
Angles a pastor or small-group leader might preach or teach from this passage, drawn from the chapter's main themes.
What Psalms 23:5 teaches us about providence
What Psalms 23:5 teaches us about god's presence
What Psalms 23:5 teaches us about comfort in suffering
What Psalms 23:5 teaches us about eternal hope
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Psalms 23
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Psalms 23.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Contentment
True contentment is a deeply spiritual state, a gift from God that brings peace and satisfaction regardless of outward circumstances
Topic
Bible Verses About Eternal Life
Eternal life, a gift from God, is knowing Him and Jesus Christ, and living forever in His presence.
Topic
Bible Verses About God as Shepherd
Explore the comforting image of God as a loving shepherd who guides, protects, and cares for His people
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Fear of Losing a Loved One
When you can't stop imagining the worst — verses to put your loved one back in God's hands.
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Fear of Death
When you're afraid to die — what scripture promises about the last enemy.
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Anniversary of a Loss
When the calendar remembers — verses for the day you can't forget.