![]() MacMillan also notes that verse 6 ("Goodness and mercy shall follow me") reminds him of two loyal sheepdogs coming behind the flock. : 78 Similarly, "Thou anointest my head with oil" may refer to an ancient form of backliner – the oil is poured on wounds, and repels flies. Douglas MacMillan argues that verse 5 ("Thou preparest a table before me") refers to the "old oriental shepherding practice" of using little raised tables to feed sheep. Thus, without its shepherd, the sheep would die either by a predator or of starvation, since sheep are known for their helplessness without their shepherd. God, as the caretaker, leads the sheep to green pastures (verse 2) and still waters (verse 2) because he knows that each of his sheep must be personally led to be fed. It is known that the shepherd is to know each sheep by name, thus when God is given the analogy of a shepherd, he is not only a protector but also the caretaker. Some commentators see the shepherd imagery pervading the entire psalm. The "rod and staff" (verse 4) are also the implements of a shepherd. Psalm 23 portrays God as a good shepherd, feeding (verse 1) and leading (verse 3) his flock. so that the strong might not oppress the weak, and that even the orphan and the widow might be treated with justice." This imagery and language were well known to the community that created the Psalm and was easily imported into its worship. For example, King Hammurabi, in the conclusion to his famous legal code, wrote: "I am the shepherd who brings well-being and abundant prosperity my rule is just. The theme of God as a shepherd was common in ancient Israel and Mesopotamia. Psalm 23 is often referred to as the "Shepherd's Psalm" Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the L ORD forever. ![]() ![]()
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