It, therefore,
signifies, Psalm to give inspiration to David. On the other
hand, when it is said "To David, a Psalm,"[85] the formula
indicates that David, having received Divine inspiration, sang
a song in consequence of the revelation.
1.
The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want]. In this
desert in which I wander I am full of trust, sure that I shall
lack nothing.
2.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures]. In a
place to dwell where grass grows. The poet, having begun by
comparing his sustenance to the pasturing of animals, in the
words, "The Lord Is my Shepherd," continues the image. This
Psalm was recited by David in the forest of Hereth, which was
so called because it was arid as clay (
heres), but it
was watered by God with all the delights of the next world
(Midrash on the Psalms).
3.
He will restore my soul]. My soul, benumbed by
misfortunes and by my flight, He will restore to its former
estate.
He will lead me in the paths of righteousness]
along the straight highway so that I may not fall into the
hands of my enemies.
4.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of
death, I will fear no evil]. In the country of shadows
this applies to the wilderness of Ziph.[86] The word
tzalmavet (Tsadi Lamed Mem Vov Tav) here employed
always signifies "utter darkness"[87]; this is the way in
which it is explained by Dunash ben Labrat[88].
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