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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 23:4 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.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/23-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/2/19_Psa_023_004.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 23:4 - The LORD is My Shepherd" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="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." /><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/23-4.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/23-4.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 4</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="/ad4.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/23-3.htm" title="Psalm 23:3">◄</a> Psalm 23:4 <a href="/psalms/23-5.htm" title="Psalm 23:5">►</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">Verse<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"><a href="/niv/psalms/23.htm">New International Version</a> Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. <a href="/nlt/psalms/23.htm">New Living Translation</a> Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. <a href="/esv/psalms/23.htm">English Standard Version</a> 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. <a href="/bsb/psalms/23.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/kjv/psalms/23.htm">King James Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nkjv/psalms/23.htm">New King James Version</a> Yea, 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. <a href="/nasb_/psalms/23.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. <a href="/nasb/psalms/23.htm">NASB 1995</a> Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. <a href="/nasb77/psalms/23.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. <a href="/lsb/psalms/23.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. <a href="/amp/psalms/23.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Even though I walk through the [sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort and console me. <a href="/csb/psalms/23.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me. <a href="/hcsb/psalms/23.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff—they comfort me. <a href="/asv/psalms/23.htm">American Standard Version</a> 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. <a href="/cev/psalms/23.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won't be afraid. You are with me, and your shepherd's rod makes me feel safe. <a href="/erv/psalms/23.htm">English Revised Version</a> 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. <a href="/gwt/psalms/23.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. <a href="/gnt/psalms/23.htm">Good News Translation</a> Even if I go through the deepest darkness, I will not be afraid, LORD, for you are with me. Your shepherd's rod and staff protect me. <a href="/isv/psalms/23.htm">International Standard Version</a> Even when I walk through a valley of deep darkness, I will not be afraid because you are with me. Your rod and your staff—they comfort me. <a href="/msb/psalms/23.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/net/psalms/23.htm">NET Bible</a> Even when I must walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff reassure me. <a href="/nheb/psalms/23.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> 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. <a href="/wbt/psalms/23.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shades of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. <a href="/web/psalms/23.htm">World English Bible</a> 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="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/psalms/23.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Also—when I walk in a valley of death-shade, "" I fear no evil, for You [are] with me, "" Your rod and Your staff—they comfort me. <a href="/ylt/psalms/23.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Also -- when I walk in a valley of death-shade, I fear no evil, for Thou art with me, Thy rod and Thy staff -- they comfort me. <a href="/slt/psalms/23.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Also if I shall go into the valley of the shadow of death, I shall not be afraid of evil, for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they will comfort me.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/psalms/23.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For though I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evils, for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they have comforted me. <a href="/cpdv/psalms/23.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> <V 22:4>For, even if I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evils. For you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they have given me consolation. <a href="/nabre/psalms/23.htm">New American Bible</a> 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 comfort me. <a href="/nrsvce/psalms/23.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/psalms/23.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> 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. <a href="/hpbt/psalms/23.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> Even if I shall walk in the valleys of the shadows of death, I will not be afraid of evil, because you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me,<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/psalms/23.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> 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. <a href="/sep/psalms/23.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> Yea, even if I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will not be afraid of evils: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, these have comforted me. <a href="/parallel/psalms/23-4.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=2414" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/psalms/23.htm">The LORD is My Shepherd</a> …3He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. 4<a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: gam (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">Even</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">though</a> <a href="/hebrew/1980.htm" title="1980: ’ê·lêḵ (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- To go, come, walk. Akin to yalak; a primitive root; to walk.">I walk</a> <a href="/hebrew/1516.htm" title="1516: bə·ḡê (Prep-b:: N-csc) -- A valley. Or gay; probably from the same root as gevah; a gorge.">through the valley</a> <a href="/hebrew/6757.htm" title="6757: ṣal·mā·weṯ (N-ms) -- Death-like shadow, deep shadow. From tsel and maveth; shade of death, i.e. The grave.">of the shadow of death,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3372.htm" title="3372: ’î·rā (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten. A primitive root; to fear; morally, to revere; caus. To frighten.">I will fear</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō- (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">no</a> <a href="/hebrew/7451.htm" title="7451: rā‘ (Adj-ms) -- Bad, evil. From ra'a'; bad or evil.">evil,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">for</a> <a href="/hebrew/859.htm" title="859: ’at·tāh (Pro-2ms) -- You (masc. sing.). ">You</a> <a href="/hebrew/5978.htm" title="5978: ‘im·mā·ḏî (Prep:: 1cs) -- Along with, against, by, from">are with me;</a> <a href="/hebrew/7626.htm" title="7626: šiḇ·ṭə·ḵā (N-msc:: 2ms) -- Rod, staff, club, scepter, tribe. From an unused root probably meaning to branch off; a scion, i.e. a stick Or a clan.">Your rod</a> <a href="/hebrew/4938.htm" title="4938: ū·miš·‘an·te·ḵā (Conj-w:: N-fsc:: 2ms) -- Support, sustenance, a walking-stick. Or mishteneth; feminine of mish'en; support, i.e. sustenance or a walking-stick.">and Your staff,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1992.htm" title="1992: hêm·māh (Pro-3mp) -- They. Or hemmah; masculine plural from halak; they.">they</a> <a href="/hebrew/5162.htm" title="5162: yə·na·ḥă·mu·nî (V-Piel-Imperf-3mp:: 1cs) -- A primitive root; properly, to sigh, i.e. Breathe strongly; by implication, to be sorry, i.e. to pity, console or rue; or to avenge.">comfort me.</a> 5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a> Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. <a href="/john/10-11.htm">John 10:11-15</a> I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. / The hired hand is not the shepherd, and the sheep are not his own. When he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf pounces on them and scatters the flock. / The man runs away because he is a hired servant and is unconcerned for the sheep. ... <a href="/hebrews/13-5.htm">Hebrews 13:5-6</a> Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” / So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” <a href="/matthew/28-20.htm">Matthew 28:20</a> and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” <a href="/romans/8-38.htm">Romans 8:38-39</a> For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, / neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. <a href="/2_corinthians/1-3.htm">2 Corinthians 1:3-4</a> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, / who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. <a href="/revelation/7-17.htm">Revelation 7:17</a> 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.’” <a href="/ezekiel/34-11.htm">Ezekiel 34:11-16</a> For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I Myself will search for My flock and seek them out. / As a shepherd looks for his scattered sheep when he is among the flock, so I will look for My flock. I will rescue them from all the places to which they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. / I will bring them out from the peoples, gather them from the countries, and bring them into their own land. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines, and in all the settlements of the land. ... <a href="/2_timothy/1-7.htm">2 Timothy 1:7</a> For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. <a href="/joshua/1-9.htm">Joshua 1:9</a> Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6-7</a> Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. / And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. <a href="/isaiah/43-1.htm">Isaiah 43:1-2</a> But now, this is what the LORD says—He who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine! / When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched; the flames will not set you ablaze. <a href="/1_peter/5-4.htm">1 Peter 5:4</a> And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. <a href="/deuteronomy/31-6.htm">Deuteronomy 31:6</a> Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” <a href="/1_john/4-18.htm">1 John 4:18</a> There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. The one who fears has not been perfected in love.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Yes, 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.through<a href="/psalms/44-19.htm">Psalm 44:19</a> Though thou hast sore broken us in the place of dragons, and covered us with the shadow of death.<a href="/job/3-5.htm">Job 3:5</a> Let darkness and the shadow of death stain it; let a cloud dwell upon it; let the blackness of the day terrify it.<a href="/job/10-21.htm">Job 10:21,22</a> Before I go whence I shall not return, even to the land of darkness and the shadow of death; … I will<a href="/psalms/3-6.htm">Psalm 3:6</a> I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.<a href="/psalms/27-1.htm">Psalm 27:1-4</a> A Psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? … <a href="/psalms/46-1.htm">Psalm 46:1-3</a> To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble… for thou<a href="/psalms/14-5.htm">Psalm 14:5</a> There were they in great fear: for God is in the generation of the righteous.<a href="/psalms/46-11.htm">Psalm 46:11</a> The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.<a href="/isaiah/8-9.htm">Isaiah 8:9,10</a> Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces… thy rod<a href="/psalms/110-2.htm">Psalm 110:2</a> The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies.<a href="/micah/7-14.htm">Micah 7:14</a> Feed thy people with thy rod, the flock of thine heritage, which dwell solitarily in the wood, in the midst of Carmel: let them feed in Bashan and Gilead, as in the days of old.<a href="/zechariah/11-10.htm">Zechariah 11:10,14</a> And I took my staff, even Beauty, and cut it asunder, that I might break my covenant which I had made with all the people… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/job/38-32.htm">Comfort</a> <a href="/psalms/22-16.htm">Death</a> <a href="/psalms/18-16.htm">Deep</a> <a href="/psalms/22-16.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/psalms/22-25.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/psalms/2-9.htm">Rod</a> <a href="/psalms/17-8.htm">Shade</a> <a href="/job/40-22.htm">Shades</a> <a href="/psalms/17-8.htm">Shadow</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/32-3.htm">Staff</a> <a href="/psalms/20-2.htm">Support</a> <a href="/job/39-21.htm">Valley</a> <a href="/psalms/15-2.htm">Walk</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/36-2.htm">Comfort</a> <a href="/psalms/30-9.htm">Death</a> <a href="/psalms/24-2.htm">Deep</a> <a href="/psalms/26-5.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/psalms/25-12.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/psalms/45-6.htm">Rod</a> <a href="/psalms/36-7.htm">Shade</a> <a href="/psalms/44-19.htm">Shades</a> <a href="/psalms/36-7.htm">Shadow</a> <a href="/psalms/105-16.htm">Staff</a> <a href="/psalms/27-10.htm">Support</a> <a href="/psalms/59-17.htm">Valley</a> <a href="/psalms/25-5.htm">Walk</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 23</div>1. <a href="/psalms/23-1.htm">David's confidence in God's grace</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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>Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death This phrase evokes a deep sense of peril and uncertainty, often interpreted as a metaphor for life's most challenging and dangerous moments. The "valley of the shadow of death" suggests a place of deep darkness and potential threat, akin to the treacherous ravines found in the Judean wilderness, where shepherds would lead their flocks. Biblically, valleys often symbolize trials or low points (e.g., <a href="/psalms/84-6.htm">Psalm 84:6</a>). The imagery of a shadow implies that death is near but not yet realized, highlighting the transient nature of such trials. This phrase can also be seen as a type of Christ's journey through suffering and death, ultimately leading to resurrection and victory.I will fear no evil This declaration of fearlessness is rooted in trust and faith. The psalmist's confidence is not in his own strength but in the presence and protection of God. This echoes the assurance found in other scriptures, such as <a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a>, where God promises to uphold His people. The absence of fear in the face of evil reflects a deep-seated belief in God's sovereignty and goodness, a theme prevalent throughout the Bible.for You are with me The presence of God is the central source of comfort and courage. This assurance of divine companionship is a recurring theme in scripture, seen in God's promises to be with His people (e.g., <a href="/joshua/1-9.htm">Joshua 1:9</a>, <a href="/matthew/28-20.htm">Matthew 28:20</a>). The personal nature of "You" emphasizes an intimate relationship with God, suggesting that His presence is both personal and protective. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the incarnation of Christ, "Emmanuel," meaning "God with us" (<a href="/matthew/1-23.htm">Matthew 1:23</a>).Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me The rod and staff are tools of a shepherd, symbolizing guidance, protection, and discipline. The rod, often used for defense against predators, represents God's power to protect and correct. The staff, used to guide and support sheep, symbolizes God's guidance and care. Together, they provide a sense of security and comfort, reinforcing the shepherd imagery that pervades the psalm. This dual aspect of God's care is reflected in <a href="/hebrews/12-6.htm">Hebrews 12:6</a>, where discipline is seen as an expression of love. The shepherd motif is also a type of Christ, the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep (<a href="/john/10-11.htm">John 10:11</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a> 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 deeply influenced his writing, providing rich imagery for understanding God's care and protection. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_valley_of_the_shadow_of_death.htm">The Valley of the Shadow of Death</a> This phrase symbolizes the darkest and most challenging times in life. It is not a specific geographical location but rather a metaphor for experiences of deep fear or danger. 3. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God (Yahweh)</a> The central figure in this Psalm, God is portrayed as a shepherd who provides guidance, protection, and comfort to His people. 4. <a href="/topical/r/rod_and_staff.htm">Rod and Staff</a> These are tools used by shepherds. The rod is a symbol of protection and authority, while the staff represents guidance and support.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/g/god's_presence_in_dark_times.htm">God's Presence in Dark Times</a> Even in the darkest moments, God is with us. His presence is a source of comfort and courage, dispelling fear. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_the_shepherd.htm">The Role of the Shepherd</a> Just as a shepherd uses a rod and staff to protect and guide sheep, God uses His power and guidance to lead us through life's challenges. <a href="/topical/f/fearlessness_through_faith.htm">Fearlessness Through Faith</a> Our faith in God's presence and protection allows us to face life's valleys without fear, trusting in His sovereign care. <a href="/topical/c/comfort_in_god's_authority.htm">Comfort in God's Authority</a> The rod symbolizes God's authority and power over evil, providing us with comfort and assurance of His control over our circumstances. <a href="/topical/g/guidance_and_support.htm">Guidance and Support</a> The staff represents God's guidance, helping us navigate through difficult paths and ensuring we stay on course.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_23.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 23</a> <a href="/q/how_to_'fear_no_evil'_amid_global_crises.htm">Psalm 23:4 – How can one “fear no evil” when global catastrophes, diseases, and violence still afflict even the devout?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'rod_and_staff_comfort'_mean.htm">What does "your rod and staff comfort me" mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_meaning_of_psalm_23_4.htm">What is the meaning of Psalm 23:4?</a> <a href="/q/what's_the_'valley_of_death'.htm">What is the "valley of the shadow of death"?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/23.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) The valley of the shadow of death . . .--This striking expression, to which the genius of Bunyan has given such reality, was probably on Hebrew lips nothing more than a forcible synonym for a dark, gloomy place. Indeed, the probability is that instead of tsal-maveth (shadow of death), should be read, tsalm-th (shadow, darkness), the general signification being all that is required in any one of the fifteen places where it occurs. It is true it is used of the "grave" or "underworld" (<a href="/context/job/10-21.htm" title="Before I go from where I shall not return, even to the land of darkness and the shadow of death;">Job 10:21-22</a>). But it is also used of the "darkness of a dungeon" (<a href="/psalms/107-10.htm" title="Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron;">Psalm 107:10</a>), of "the pathless desert" (<a href="/jeremiah/2-6.htm" title="Neither said they, Where is the LORD that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, that led us through the wilderness, through a land of deserts and of pits, through a land of drought, and of the shadow of death, through a land that no man passed through, and where no man dwelled?">Jeremiah 2:6</a>); or, possibly, since it is there parallel with drought, of "the blinding darkness of a sandstorm," and metaphorically of "affliction" (<a href="/isaiah/9-2.htm" title="The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, on them has the light shined.">Isaiah 9:2</a>), and of the "dull heavy look" that grief wears (<a href="/job/16-16.htm" title="My face is foul with weeping, and on my eyelids is the shadow of death;">Job 16:16</a>).By valley we must understand a deep ravine. Palestine abounds in wild and gloomy valleys, and shepherd life experiences the actual peril of them. Addison's paraphrase catches the true feeling of the original-- . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/23.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 4. - Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death. A sudden transition and contrast, such as David loved. The quiet paths of righteousness and peace remind the poet of the exact opposite - the dark and dismal way through the valley of the shadow of death. Even when so situated, he does not, he will not, fear. I will fear no evil, he says. And why? For thou art with me. The same Protector, the same gracious and merciful God, will be still with him - leading him, guiding his steps, shepherding him, keeping him from evil. Thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff - i.e. thy shepherd's crook, and thy staff of defence - they comfort me. They make me feel that, however long and however dreary the way through the dark vale, I shall still have thy guidance and thy protection. <a href="/commentaries/psalms/23-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>Even גַּ֤ם (gam) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and though כִּֽי־ (kî-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction I walk אֵלֵ֨ךְ (’ê·lêḵ) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1980.htm">Strong's 1980: </a> To go, come, walk through the valley בְּגֵ֪יא (bə·ḡê) Preposition-b | Noun - common singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1516.htm">Strong's 1516: </a> A valley of the shadow of death, צַלְמָ֡וֶת (ṣal·mā·weṯ) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6757.htm">Strong's 6757: </a> Death-like shadow, deep shadow I will fear אִ֘ירָ֤א (’î·rā) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3372.htm">Strong's 3372: </a> To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten no לֹא־ (lō-) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no evil, רָ֗ע (rā‘) Adjective - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7451.htm">Strong's 7451: </a> Bad, evil for כִּי־ (kî-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction You אַתָּ֥ה (’at·tāh) Pronoun - second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_859.htm">Strong's 859: </a> Thou and thee, ye and you are with me; עִמָּדִ֑י (‘im·mā·ḏî) Preposition | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5978.htm">Strong's 5978: </a> Against, by, from, me, mine, of, that I take, unto, Your rod שִׁבְטְךָ֥ (šiḇ·ṭə·ḵā) Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7626.htm">Strong's 7626: </a> Rod, staff, club, scepter, tribe and Your staff, וּ֝מִשְׁעַנְתֶּ֗ךָ (ū·miš·‘an·te·ḵā) Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4938.htm">Strong's 4938: </a> Support, sustenance, a walking-stick they הֵ֣מָּה (hêm·māh) Pronoun - third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1992.htm">Strong's 1992: </a> They comfort me. יְנַֽחֲמֻֽנִי׃ (yə·na·ḥă·mu·nî) Verb - Piel - Imperfect - third person masculine plural | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5162.htm">Strong's 5162: </a> To sigh, breathe strongly, to be sorry, to pity, console, rue, to avenge <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/psalms/23-4.htm">Psalm 23:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/psalms/23-4.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/23-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 23:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 23:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/23-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 23:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 23:5" /></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>