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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 23:3 He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/23-3.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/1/19_Psa_023_003.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 23:3 - The LORD is My Shepherd" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/23-3.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/23-3.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/23.htm">Chapter 23</a> > Verse 3</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad3.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/23-2.htm" title="Psalm 23:2">◄</a> Psalm 23:3 <a href="/psalms/23-4.htm" title="Psalm 23:4">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/psalms/23.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/psalms/23.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name&#8217s sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/psalms/23.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/psalms/23.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/psalms/23.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/psalms/23.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/psalms/23.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/psalms/23.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For the sake of His name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/psalms/23.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name&#8217s sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/psalms/23.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/psalms/23.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/psalms/23.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />He refreshes <i>and</i> restores my soul (life); He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/psalms/23.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />He renews my life; he leads me along the right paths for his name’s sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/psalms/23.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />He renews my life; He leads me along the right paths for His name&#8217s sake. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/psalms/23.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />He restoreth my soul: He guideth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/psalms/23.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />and you refresh my life. You are true to your name, and you lead me along the right paths. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/psalms/23.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />He restoreth my soul: he guideth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/psalms/23.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/psalms/23.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />He gives me new strength. He guides me in the right paths, as he has promised. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/psalms/23.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />He revives my life; he leads me in pathways that are righteous for the sake of his name. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/psalms/23.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/psalms/23.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />He restores my strength. He leads me down the right paths for the sake of his reputation. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/psalms/23.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/psalms/23.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/psalms/23.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/psalms/23.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />He refreshes my soul, "" He leads me in paths of righteousness "" For His Name’s sake;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/psalms/23.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> My soul He refresheth, He leadeth me in paths of righteousness, For His name's sake,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/psalms/23.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />He will turn back my soul: he will guide me into the tracks of justice for sake of his name.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/psalms/23.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />he hath converted my soul. He hath led me on the paths of justice, for his own name's sake. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/psalms/23.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 22:3>He has converted my soul. He has led me away on the paths of justice, for the sake of his name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/psalms/23.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />he restores my soul. He guides me along right paths for the sake of his name. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/psalms/23.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/psalms/23.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/psalms/23.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />He brings back my soul, and leads me in the paths of truth because of your Name.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/psalms/23.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />He restoreth my soul; He guideth me in straight paths for His name's sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/psalms/23.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />He has restored my soul: he has guided me into the paths of righteousness, for his name's sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/psalms/23-3.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=2406" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/psalms/23.htm">The LORD is My Shepherd</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">2</span>He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. <span class="reftext">3</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/7725.htm" title="7725: yə·šō·w·ḇêḇ (V-Piel-Imperf-3ms) -- A primitive root; to turn back transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively; generally to retreat; often adverbial, again.">He restores</a> <a href="/hebrew/5315.htm" title="5315: nap̄·šî (N-fsc:: 1cs) -- From naphash; properly, a breathing creature, i.e. Animal of vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense.">my soul;</a> <a href="/hebrew/5148.htm" title="5148: yan·ḥê·nî (V-Hifil-Imperf-3ms:: 1cs) -- To lead, guide. A primitive root; to guide; by implication, to transport.">He guides me</a> <a href="/hebrew/4570.htm" title="4570: ḇə·ma‘·gə·lê- (Prep-b:: N-mpc) -- An entrenchment, track. Or feminine mapgalah; from the same as agol; a track; also a rampart.">in the paths</a> <a href="/hebrew/6664.htm" title="6664: ṣe·ḏeq (N-ms) -- Rightness, righteousness. From tsadaq; the right; also equity or prosperity.">of righteousness</a> <a href="/hebrew/4616.htm" title="4616: lə·ma·‘an (Prep) -- From anah; properly, heed, i.e. Purpose; used only adverbially, on account of, teleologically, in order that.">for the sake</a> <a href="/hebrew/8034.htm" title="8034: šə·mōw (N-msc:: 3ms) -- A primitive word; an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character.">of His name.</a> </span><span class="reftext">4</span>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.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/10-3.htm">John 10:3-4</a></span><br />The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen for his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. / When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/40-11.htm">Isaiah 40:11</a></span><br />He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. He gently leads the nursing ewes.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ezekiel/34-15.htm">Ezekiel 34:15-16</a></span><br />I will tend My flock and make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD. / I will seek the lost, bring back the strays, bind up the broken, and strengthen the weak; but the sleek and strong I will destroy. I will shepherd them with justice.’<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/10-14.htm">John 10:14-15</a></span><br />I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me, / just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father. And I lay down My life for the sheep.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/2-25.htm">1 Peter 2:25</a></span><br />For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/49-10.htm">Isaiah 49:10</a></span><br />They will not hunger or thirst, nor will scorching heat or sun beat down on them. For He who has compassion on them will guide them and lead them beside springs of water.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/revelation/7-17.htm">Revelation 7:17</a></span><br />For the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd. ‘He will lead them to springs of living water,’ and ‘God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/31-9.htm">Jeremiah 31:9</a></span><br />They will come with weeping, and by their supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk beside streams of waters, on a level path where they will not stumble. For I am Israel’s Father, and Ephraim is My firstborn.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/15-4.htm">Luke 15:4-6</a></span><br />“What man among you, if he has a hundred sheep and loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the pasture and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? / And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders, / comes home, and calls together his friends and neighbors to tell them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep!’<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/16-13.htm">John 16:13</a></span><br />However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11</a></span><br />I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/42-16.htm">Isaiah 42:16</a></span><br />I will lead the blind by a way they did not know; I will guide them on unfamiliar paths. I will turn darkness into light before them and rough places into level ground. These things I will do for them, and I will not forsake them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/5-8.htm">Psalm 5:8</a></span><br />Lead me, O LORD, in Your righteousness because of my enemies; make straight Your way before me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/31-3.htm">Psalm 31:3</a></span><br />For You are my rock and my fortress; lead me and guide me for the sake of Your name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/139-24.htm">Psalm 139:24</a></span><br />See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the way everlasting.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">He restores my soul: he leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.</p><p class="hdg">restoreth</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/19-7.htm">Psalm 19:7</a></b></br> The law of the LORD <i>is</i> perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD <i>is</i> sure, making wise the simple.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/51-10.htm">Psalm 51:10,12</a></b></br> Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/85-4.htm">Psalm 85:4-7</a></b></br> Turn us, O God of our salvation, and cause thine anger toward us to cease… </p><p class="hdg">leadeth</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/5-8.htm">Psalm 5:8</a></b></br> Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/34-3.htm">Psalm 34:3</a></b></br> O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/143-8.htm">Psalm 143:8-10</a></b></br> Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee… </p><p class="hdg">for his</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/79-9.htm">Psalm 79:9</a></b></br> Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name's sake.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ezekiel/20-14.htm">Ezekiel 20:14</a></b></br> But I wrought for my name's sake, that it should not be polluted before the heathen, in whose sight I brought them out.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ephesians/1-6.htm">Ephesians 1:6</a></b></br> To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/20-6.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/psalms/23-2.htm">Guide</a> <a href="/job/12-17.htm">Guides</a> <a href="/2_samuel/22-33.htm">Guideth</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/32-22.htm">Leadeth</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/6-32.htm">Name's</a> <a href="/psalms/19-7.htm">New</a> <a href="/psalms/17-5.htm">Paths</a> <a href="/proverbs/25-13.htm">Refresheth</a> <a href="/psalms/14-7.htm">Restores</a> <a href="/job/33-26.htm">Restoreth</a> <a href="/psalms/22-31.htm">Righteousness</a> <a href="/psalms/16-2.htm">Sake</a> <a href="/psalms/22-29.htm">Soul</a> <a href="/psalms/18-32.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/psalms/18-21.htm">Ways</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/29-11.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/psalms/25-5.htm">Guide</a> <a href="/psalms/25-9.htm">Guides</a> <a href="/psalms/25-9.htm">Guideth</a> <a href="/psalms/47-3.htm">Leadeth</a> <a href="/psalms/25-11.htm">Name's</a> <a href="/psalms/33-3.htm">New</a> <a href="/psalms/25-4.htm">Paths</a> <a href="/proverbs/25-13.htm">Refresheth</a> <a href="/psalms/53-6.htm">Restores</a> <a href="/ezekiel/33-15.htm">Restoreth</a> <a href="/psalms/24-5.htm">Righteousness</a> <a href="/psalms/25-7.htm">Sake</a> <a href="/psalms/24-4.htm">Soul</a> <a href="/psalms/27-11.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/psalms/25-4.htm">Ways</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 23</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/23-1.htm">David's confidence in God's grace</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/23.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/23.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>He restores my soul;</b><br>This phrase speaks to the renewal and revitalization of one's inner being. In biblical context, the soul often represents the whole person, encompassing emotions, will, and intellect. The restoration implies a return to a state of spiritual vitality and peace, akin to the shepherd tending to a weary sheep. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of God as a restorer, seen in passages like <a href="/isaiah/40-31.htm">Isaiah 40:31</a>, where those who hope in the Lord renew their strength. The concept of restoration is also echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus offers rest for the weary and burdened (<a href="/matthew/11-28.htm">Matthew 11:28-30</a>), highlighting His role as the ultimate shepherd and restorer of souls.<p><b>He guides me in the paths of righteousness</b><br>The imagery of guidance reflects the shepherd's role in leading sheep along safe and right paths. In ancient Israel, shepherds were responsible for finding paths that led to water and pasture, ensuring the well-being of their flock. The "paths of righteousness" symbolize a life lived in accordance with God's will and commandments. This guidance is not just moral but also practical, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/3-5.htm">Proverbs 3:5-6</a>, where trusting in the Lord leads to straight paths. The guidance of God is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, with the Holy Spirit described as a guide into all truth (<a href="/john/16-13.htm">John 16:13</a>), further connecting this guidance to the work of Christ in believers' lives.<p><b>for the sake of His name.</b><br>This phrase emphasizes that God's actions are ultimately for His glory and reputation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a name represented one's character and authority. God's name is synonymous with His nature, and His actions reflect His holiness and faithfulness. The idea that God acts for the sake of His name is seen throughout the Bible, such as in <a href="/ezekiel/36-22.htm">Ezekiel 36:22-23</a>, where God promises to act not for Israel's sake, but to uphold the sanctity of His name among the nations. This underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people, where His guidance and restoration are part of His commitment to His own character and promises.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a></b><br>The author of <a href="/bsb/psalms/23.htm">Psalm 23</a>, David was a shepherd before becoming the king of Israel. His experiences as a shepherd inform the imagery used in this psalm.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/s/shepherd.htm">Shepherd</a></b><br>A central figure in <a href="/bsb/psalms/23.htm">Psalm 23</a>, representing God as the caretaker and guide of His people, providing for their needs and leading them to righteousness.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/p/paths_of_righteousness.htm">Paths of Righteousness</a></b><br>Symbolic of the moral and ethical guidance provided by God, leading believers in a way that aligns with His will and character.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/r/restoration_of_the_soul.htm">Restoration of the Soul</a></b><br>God is the ultimate restorer of our souls, bringing spiritual renewal and healing. In Hebrew, the word for "restore" (shuv) implies returning or bringing back to a former state, emphasizing God's role in restoring us to spiritual vitality.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/guidance_in_righteousness.htm">Guidance in Righteousness</a></b><br>The paths of righteousness are not just moral choices but a lifestyle aligned with God's will. The Hebrew word for "paths" (ma'galey) suggests well-worn tracks, indicating a consistent and faithful walk with God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/for_his_name's_sake.htm">For His Name's Sake</a></b><br>God's guidance and restoration are ultimately for His glory. Our lives should reflect His character and bring honor to His name.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/d/dependence_on_god.htm">Dependence on God</a></b><br>Just as sheep depend on their shepherd, we must rely on God for direction and sustenance. This dependence fosters a deeper relationship with Him.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/living_testimonies.htm">Living Testimonies</a></b><br>As recipients of God's guidance and restoration, our lives become testimonies of His goodness and faithfulness to others.<a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/23.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) <span class= "bld">Restoreth my soul</span>--<span class= "ital">i.e., </span>refresheth, recreateth, quickeneth.<p><span class= "bld">For his name's sake.</span>--God's providential dealings are recognised as in accordance with His character for great graciousness.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/23.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 3.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">He restoreth my soul</span>; <span class="accented">i.e.</span> revives it and reinvigorates it when it is exhausted and weary (see the comment on Is. 19:7, where the same verb occurs). <span class="cmt_word">He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness</span>. Which are also "paths of pleasantness and peace" (<a href="/proverbs/3-17.htm">Proverbs 3:17</a>). <span class="cmt_word">For his Name's sake</span>. To magnify his Name as a gracious and merciful God. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/psalms/23-3.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">He restores</span><br /><span class="heb">יְשׁוֹבֵ֑ב</span> <span class="translit">(yə·šō·w·ḇêḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Piel - Imperfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7725.htm">Strong's 7725: </a> </span><span class="str2">To turn back, in, to retreat, again</span><br /><br /><span class="word">my soul;</span><br /><span class="heb">נַפְשִׁ֥י</span> <span class="translit">(nap̄·šî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5315.htm">Strong's 5315: </a> </span><span class="str2">A soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion </span><br /><br /><span class="word">He guides me</span><br /><span class="heb">יַֽנְחֵ֥נִי</span> <span class="translit">(yan·ḥê·nî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5148.htm">Strong's 5148: </a> </span><span class="str2">To guide, to transport</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in the paths</span><br /><span class="heb">בְמַעְגְּלֵי־</span> <span class="translit">(ḇə·ma‘·gə·lê-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4570.htm">Strong's 4570: </a> </span><span class="str2">An entrenchment, track</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of righteousness</span><br /><span class="heb">צֶ֝֗דֶק</span> <span class="translit">(ṣe·ḏeq)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6664.htm">Strong's 6664: </a> </span><span class="str2">The right, equity, prosperity</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for the sake</span><br /><span class="heb">לְמַ֣עַן</span> <span class="translit">(lə·ma·‘an)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4616.htm">Strong's 4616: </a> </span><span class="str2">Purpose -- intent</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of His name.</span><br /><span class="heb">שְׁמֽוֹ׃</span> <span class="translit">(šə·mōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8034.htm">Strong's 8034: </a> </span><span class="str2">A name</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/psalms/23-3.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 23:3 He restores my soul (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/23-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 23:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 23:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/23-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 23:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 23:4" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>