As a child, I thought that “I shall not want” meant that I didn’t want the Shepherd. No one explained it because no one knew I was thinking that. Since words are easily misunderstood, much effort has gone into making the Bible understandable. Here are 2 versions of the 23rd Psalm that take different approaches to the problem of misunderstood language.
**********
The Amplified Bible Classic Edition (AMPC), with its unique system of brackets, parentheses and italics inserted in the text, strives to include the rich nuances and shades of meaning of the original Bible languages. Originally published in 1965, the AMPC is largely based on the American Standard Version of 1901.
The Living Bible (TLB or LB) is a paraphrase (a restatement of the meaning of a passage using other words) of the Bible to make scripture easier to understand. Written by Kenneth N. Taylor and first published in 1971, Taylor used the American Standard Version of 1901 as his base text.
Psalm 23 AMPC
Psalm 23 TLB
1 The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack.
Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need!
2 He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.
He lets me rest in the meadow grass and leads me beside the quiet streams.
3 He refreshes and restores my life (my self); He leads me in the paths of righteousness
[uprightness and right standing with Him—not for my earning it, but] for His name’s sake.
He gives me new strength. He helps me do what honors him the most.
4 Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me.
Even when walking through the dark valley of death I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me, guarding, guiding all the way.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my [brimming] cup runs over.
You provide delicious food for me in the presence of my enemies.
You have welcomed me as your guest; blessings overflow!
6 Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life,
and through the length of my days the house of the Lord [and His presence] shall be my dwelling place.
Your goodness and unfailing kindness shall be with me all of my life,
and afterwards I will live with you forever in your home.
