Psalm 22
(Psalm 23 in Hebrew Numbering)
A psalm for David.
The Lord ruleth me: and I shall want nothing.
He hath set me in a place of pasture.
He hath brought me up, on the water of refreshment:
he hath converted my soul.
He hath led me on the paths of justice, for his own name’s sake.
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.
Thou hast prepared a table before me against them that afflict me.
Thou hast anointed my head with oil; and my chalice which inebriateth me, how goodly is it!
And thy mercy will follow me all the days of my life.
And that I may dwell in the house of the Lord for length of days.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Contexte Historique
This beloved psalm, attributed to King David, is known as Psalm 22 in the traditional Catholic Douay-Rheims Bible (following the Greek Septuagint numbering) and as Psalm 23 in most modern translations. It is one of the most cherished prayers in Scripture, a beautiful hymn of trust in God’s divine providence. Using the metaphor of a shepherd caring for his sheep, the psalmist expresses profound confidence in God’s guidance, protection, and provision, even in the face of life’s darkest trials. It is frequently used in the liturgy for the sick and in funeral Masses, offering immense comfort and hope in the promise of eternal life in the house of the Lord.