Psalm 23:5
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.”
KJV
Read in Psalm 23Meaning
The host prepares a table in the presence of enemies, anoints the head with oil, and fills the cup to overflowing; the images communicate honor, welcome and abundance without promising luxury, revenge, humiliation of enemies, or miraculous medical effects from oil.
The LORD as host
Verses 5–6 shift to a host’s table, anointing, overflowing cup, pursuing goodness and steadfast love, and dwelling with the LORD.
Read carefully
The host prepares a table in the presence of enemies, anoints the head with oil, and fills the cup to overflowing; the images communicate honor, welcome and abundance without promising luxury, revenge, humiliation of enemies, or miraculous medical effects from oil. Keep the verse inside Psalm 23’s shepherd-and-host imagery.
Reflection
The host prepares a table in the presence of enemies, anoints the head with oil, and fills the cup to overflowing; the images communicate honor, welcome and abundance without promising luxury, revenge, humiliation of enemies, or miraculous medical effects from oil.