Psalm 23

1 Ein Lied, von David. - Mein Hirte ist der Herr; mir mangelt nichts.

Yahweh, you [care for] me [like] a shepherd [cares for his sheep]. [So] I have everything that I need.

2 Er lagert mich auf grünen Auen; er leitet mich zu stillen Wassern,

You [encourage] me [and give me peace]; [you are like a shepherd] who leads [his sheep] to places where there is plenty of green grass [for them to eat], and lets them rest beside streams where the water [is flowing] slowly.

3 lenkt mein Begehr und leitet mich auf rechten Pfaden zu seines Namens Wohnstatt hin. -

You renew my strength. You guide me along the roads that are the right ones [for me] in order that I can honor you.

4 Und walle ich im Tal des Todesschattens, ich fürchte keinerlei Gefahr; denn Du begleitest mich. Ein Trost sind mir Dein Stab und Deine Rute, die mir zur Leitung dienen.

Even when I am walking through very dangerous dark ravines where I might be killed, I will not be afraid of anything because you are with me. You protect me [like a shepherd protects his sheep]. [He uses] his club and his walking stick [to protect them from being attacked by wild animals].

5 Du richtest mir ein Mahl vor meinen Neidern zu. Du salbst mein Haupt mit Öl und schenkst mir vollen Becher ein.

You prepare a [great] feast for me, in a place where my enemies can see me. You [joyfully receive me], [as people joyfully receive the guests they have invited] [by] pouring [olive] oil over their heads. You have given me very many blessings!

6 In meinem Leben folgt mir Glück und Huld, und immer weile ich im Haus des Herrn.

I am certain that you will be good to me and act mercifully toward me as long as I live; and [then, O] Yahweh, I will live in your home [in heaven] forever.