Psalm 23is probably the most well known psalm and has most likely had more sermons preached, teachings given on it, with more books and commentaries written about it than any other in the Bible.
Comparing their explanations of the first part of this verse reveals that most commentators agree with each other on the following conclusion: David is being provided a great feast by the Lord while his enemies are watching him and are wondering how he could enjoy such a feast when they are about to kill him; and furthermore it’s David’s way of showing that he has no fear of his enemies.
In many ways, this does agree with hiswalking through the valley of deaths shadow and fearing no evil.
There is also the popular reference where tradition teaches us this is a poem with a shepherding motif. We understand that the shepherd leads his sheep to rich fields to graze and protects them from any predators, he is watching over the sheep while they eat safely and they are completely unaware of any dangers.
This seems to be describing a picture showing that the Psalmist has left the valley of the shadow of death and is now in a place of security, and without fear of attack by his enemies David is able to enjoy this great feast. Some commentators say the Psalmist is transitioning out of the shepherding motif and now is a king who is feeling secure even though a king is often surrounded by enemies and threats to his power.
Last post we asked the question:
Why are we so quick to assume that the table represents a banquet or feast of physical food, or even having a meal? The scripture actually only says that God prepares a table. It does not say a feast, nor a banquet, just simply a table.
There are 2 very different things about this table prepared by our Father.
One is
to hear about what is served at the Table that God has prepared
and the other is
To eat from the table God has prepared.
All who eat have heard
however
not all who hear eat.
It remains true then that
To him who has ears to hear,
let him eat that which God has prepared.
Research shows there is a very strong cultural expression here, that exists even in this modern age in the Middle East.
First, we need to examine the word prepare.
Because it is the Lord God who is preparing this table, it makes Him sound like a servant who is setting the table for the Psalmist.
The word prepare in Hebrew is
‘arak
which means:
to set in order or arrange.
In the Persian language it is a term used by the military for: preparing for battle;
and in the Phoenician language, the closest word to the Hebrew
arak: To arrange, set in order, prepare, compare, value
Original Word: עָרַךְ Transliteration: `arak Pronunciation: ah-RAHK Phonetic Spelling: (aw-rak’) Definition:To arrange, set in order, prepare, compare, value Meaning: to set in a, row, arrange, put in order
GreekG3903 (paratithemi): To set before, to place beside, to present
– G5021 (tasso): To arrange, to appoint, to ordain
The Hebrew verb “arak” primarily means to arrange or set in order. It is used in various contexts, including the preparation of items, the arrangement of troops for battle, and the setting of a table. The word can also imply the act of comparing or valuing something, indicating a process of evaluation or judgment.
In ancient Israelite culture, the concept of order and arrangement was significant, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God bringing order out of chaos. The act of arranging or setting things in order was not only practical but also symbolic of divine order and purpose. In the context of worship, for example, the careful arrangement of offerings and the setting of the table for the showbread in the Tabernacle were acts of reverence and obedience to God’s commands.
Last post we looked at the Hebrew word for table which is shulachan; most lexicons say it means a table.
We saw that this word comes from the root word shalach
and that it’s a word used for:
moving toward a goal or resolution.
And we have to ask, exactly what does that have to do with a table?
Another Hebrew word for table is: tavala
which is:
a board or plank of wood.
For most people that is what we imagine on hearing the word table.
However, Shulachan שחן has a meaning that is different from a wooden structure, it’s a special table, one used for:
reaching a goal or finding a solution to a problem.
Shalach in its Semitic root has the idea of :
sending forth a message.
Interesting side note on the Semitic root:
There is a Jewish phrase Shulchan Aruk. This phrase means literally, preparing the table. In scriptural thought, preparing a table with food created for the body, is synonymous with the purpose of Torah, preparing food for a holy walk. This truth is referred to many times by Yeshua’, not the least of which is in Mattityahu 4:4 (Matthew).But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. What makes the shulchan even more interesting is that its verbal root is shalach (שלח). This is the common Hebrew word meaning to send forth. The word shalach is translated in the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Old Testament) and eventually into the New Testament as apostole(άπόστολος), from which we get the word apostle. As defined in the Tanakh, an apostle is one that is sent forth for a purpose. The function of an apostle, based upon the background of the meaning of the word, is to prepare a table or to provide a proper setting of food to those who are hungry. The apostle’s ultimate responsibility is to provide the only true food that YHVH has given to humanity, His Torah – teachin,g instructions and directions for life..
And once more we ask the question, what does that have to do with a table?
In its root form, it means: to send out or to reach out,
and is used for
forming a diplomatic commission.
In other words ‘arak and shulchan,
preparing a table is:
to prepare a table for negotiations.
To have this table set before his enemies, would suggest that Adonai is preparing negotiations for the Psalmist with his enemies.
In almost every culture today, tables have multiple uses. They are made from either wood or some other strong material that has at least 3 legs, usually 4 for stability. Most have accompanying chairs for the purpose of sitting down beside them to eat, write, or a myriad of other uses.
In the ancient Middle East tables were less popular. Historical information records that the people of the ancient Middle East, as today for many nomadic people, they never ate at a table. Even the wealthy and kings did not normally eat at a table. Instead they simply sat or reclined on the ground and shared food from a common plate. Tables were not a common item and were used only occasionally.
This idea of some kind of a banquet or food feast probably comes from the phrase:
YHVH is setting a table before his enemies. It’s very doubtful that a shepherd would set up a table to eat, somewhere out in the wilderness surrounded by his sheep. Sometimes we read verses and don’t even stop to consider what the real meaning is telling us.
The mention of the shepherd in this psalm says that Adonai anoints his head with oil. There is historical evidence that shepherds did use a type of plant oil, maybe that of Oley to rub in the wounds of sheep that might have been injured, e.g. from thorns; and to keep insects away from their heads. Again if we read this with the picture that: Our Heavenly Father prepares a meal for us to eat in front of our enemies, who are just waiting to harm or kill us and if they do. Then He rubs some healing oil over our wounds to heal and restore us; at face value Psalm 23 does convey this message, however, as we are learning, in YHWH’s Word there is always more! Any archaeological study of that era will reveal that a table as we think of one, is quite out of place in this Psalm; and our Heavenly Father is much more proactive against our enemies.
However, this suggestion of a feast may be where commentators get their idea of anointing his head with oil from. In those days when a king gave a banquet or feast for invited guests each guest would bring oil with them, most likely frankincense, into the banqueting hall and it was poured over his head. Frankincense was considered the oil of kings. This was done for several reasons. One being that it would also create a euphoric feeling as it filled the air and it also helped to cover body odors from those who did not wash as frequently as people do today.
The phrase ‘a feast before one’s enemies’, is a reference to an ancient Middle Eastern tradition. Attempts to reconcile issues between rivals or enemies were often resolved by sharing a meal together and specifically this would involve a table where all the food and drinks were placed for all to see. Professional tasters would sample both the food and the drinks to make certain non of it was poisoned, ruling out ulterior motives. They would all eat from a common plate, so they needed a table so they could eat from both sides, if the food was poisoned they would all be affected. This would build trust between them and help greatly in the process of resolving their issues peacefully.
In fact, that is where the idea of a toast originated. It is said that the two parties raised their cups of wine together then drink from each other’s cup just to be sure the other didn’t sneak poison into the other’s drink. If they were really serious about coming to an agreement, they would tap their cups and drink from their own cup to show their complete trust in the good faith of the other party. This has become a familiar sight at all kinds of celebrations today.
With this in mind we have a greater understanding that David was declaring that the Lord God was working on his behalf by doing the right thing toward his enemies in trying prevent physical war and to forge a peaceful solution to their differences. It is not strange today when we hear on the news today that conflicts in the Middle East are often discussed around a table which includes a meal.
A table was used when there was business to conduct and you needed something solid to write on, or you had to be in a good sitting position able to look your adversary in the eyes.
The Hebrew word most often translated as enemy is ‘oyebh, meaning perhaps literally, “one who hates”.
Another word for enemy in Hebrew is tsar/tsarar which means:
to be restricted, narrow or to bind up.
Strongs 6862
tsar: Adversary, enemy, distress, trouble
Original Word: צַר Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: tsar Pronunciation: tsar Phonetic Spelling: (tsar) Definition: Adversary, enemy, distress, trouble Meaning: narrow, a tight place, a pebble, an opponent
Word Origin: Derived from the root verb צָרַר (tsarar), meaning “to bind” or “to be narrow.”
G2346 (θλίβω, thlibō): Meaning “to press” or “to afflict,” often used in the context of tribulation or distress.
The Hebrew word “tsar” primarily denotes an adversary or enemy, often used to describe someone who causes distress or trouble. It can also refer to the state of being in distress or experiencing hardship. The term is frequently used in the context of conflict, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, and is often associated with the trials faced by individuals or the nation of Israel.
In the Akkadian it is the word fararu which means:
a foe or adversary. It’s an adversary that is binding you or restricting you from accomplishing your purpose.
How do people respond when someone stands their way of accomplishing a task or goal? They usually apply some force, intimidation, or conflict to get this adversary out of the way.
How does this relate to us and our personal lives?
Here is a great lesson in Psalm 23. Up to now, our Heavenly Father’s only intervention was to create a sense of peace for the Psalmist. The Psalm begins with the statement that God provides everything for him so that he has no lack and wants nothing. His soul is restored, and he is led to green pastures and still waters. He carries a rod and staff which comfort him and now He prepares a negotiating table with him before his enemies.
Psalm 23 covers all our needs!
Surely this is one of the greatest achievements in life, when we can have peaceful relationships with others. Our bodies needs rest, our souls need restoration and healing, but until the mind finds understanding and relief, none of this can happen.
When someone slights us, treats us badly by disrespecting us and seems bent on making our lives miserable. We instinctively call out to our Heavenly Father asking Him to remove this person from our lives; and we probably think of many ways that this adversary can be taken away. However, our Heavenly Father has the real solution by setting up a table, negotiations with our enemies.
We can glean from this that our Heavenly Father has set a table for us in the presence of our enemies, He desires for us to peacefully resolve the differences we have with one another, to talk them out, and if possible be friends and not enemies.
It is a sad fact that in congregations and assemblies of believers conflicts do exist, some people never work through their issues and end up holding grudges, and not talking to each other. Serious differences sometimes cause a congregation to split, key people will leave with hearts of bitterness toward fellow believers. Our Heavenly Father is ready to prepare a table and help settle the differences; and many times it is not a fixed in an instant, solutions are preceded by prayer and communication.
Strife, contention and division are some of the enemy’s greatest weapons and are used to create disunity and disharmony.
James 3:16 For where there are envying and strife, there are contention and every evil work.(evil = out of harmony with the Fathers will).
Our Heavenly Father is ready to heal those wounds but there must be honest communication between the parties before the healing can begin and this requires His wisdom. James continues in verse 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits without partiality, and without hypocrisy.18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace/shalom.
A final note in that it is God who prepares the table. He is the One who brings the two parties together. He is the mediator, the arbitrator, the impartial judge who brings both parties together to come to an amicable agreement.
In most disputes, both parties have good and understandable points of view that have caused the conflicting opinions. Our Heavenly Father wants us to talk it out, and to try to understand the other’s point of view. Once we do, it’s much easier to forgive and reconcile. After studying these verses, rather than the picture of our Father setting up the table so the Psalmist can peacefully eat his meal in defiance against his enemy. Let’s try and view it from the meaning that He is setting up a table to negotiate and reconcile with his enemy. This may be a more realistic view of these verses, let the reader decide!
Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family
and cheverim/friends!
It’s all about Life and Relationship,
NOT Religion.
You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.
NOT SURE?
YOU CAN BE..
SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…
Heavenly Father I come to you in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua asking for forgiveness of my sins for which I am truly sorry. I repent of them all and turn away from my past.
I believe with my heart and confess with my mouth that Jesus/Yeshua is your Son and that He died on the cross at calvary to pay the price for my sin, so that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. Father I believe that Jesus/Yeshua rose from the dead and I ask you to come into my life right now and be my personal Savior and Lord and I will worship you all the days of my life. Because your word is truth I say that I am now forgiven and born again and by faith I am washed clean with the blood of Jesus/Yeshua. Thank you that you have accepted me into your family in Jesus’/Yeshua’s name. Amen.
What do we think of when we read this well known verse?
Do we think or visualize a table full of food?
Do we think of physical provision to sustain bodily strength and stamina?
Or do we think more of the spiritual provision of the abundant life in our Father by His Spirit through Yeshua/Messiah?
Why would David be eating at a table in front of enemies?
Why is this table coupled with anointing his head with oil?
There is a similar scripture in Psalm 78:19 about
a table in the wilderness.
Is this a reference to our Heavenly Father being able to provide supernatural sustenance, as in manna from heaven; in the same way He did for the children of Israel during their desert wilderness journey?
What kind of table does David mean?
As we look a little more closely at the Hebrew words we get a wider picture of the context in which David, as King, was thinking.
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.”
Psalm 23:5 HEB:תַּעֲרֹ֬ךְ לְפָנַ֨י ׀ שֻׁלְחָ֗ן נֶ֥גֶד צֹרְרָ֑י NAS:You prepare a table before KJV:Thou preparest a table before INT:prepare before A table the presence of my enemies
In some translations the word prepare reads as
Furnish, meaning:make available.
“Yea, they spoke against God; they said,
Can God furnish a table in the wilderness?”
Psalm 78:19 HEB:אֵ֑ל לַעֲרֹ֥ךְ שֻׁ֝לְחָ֗ן בַּמִּדְבָּֽר׃ NAS:God prepare a table in the wilderness? KJV:God furnish a table in the wilderness? INT:God prepare A table desert
Original Word:שֻׁלְחָן Transliteration: shulchan Pronunciation: shool-khawn’ Phonetic Spelling:shool-khawn’ Definition: Table Meaning:a table, a meal, from an unused root meaning:
to spread out.
G5132 (trapeza): Often used in the New Testament to refer to a table, including the table of the Lord’s Supper.
The Hebrew word “shulchan” primarily refers to a table, often used for eating, displaying items, or conducting business. In the biblical context, it can denote both ordinary household tables and sacred tables used in religious rituals, such as the Table of Showbread in the Tabernacle and Temple.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, the table was a piece of furniture in both domestic and religious settings. It symbolized fellowship, hospitality, and provision. The Table of Showbread in the Tabernacle, for instance, held twelve loaves representing the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying God’s continual provision and presence among His people.
Tables were also places of negotiation and covenant-making, reflecting their role in social and communal life.
Brown-Driver-Briggs
שֻׁלְחָן71noun masculineExodus 25:23table (on form of word compare GFMl.c.; properly (see above) skin or leather mat spread on ground, see also, on early Semitic ‘table,’ Thes1417 WeSkizzen iv. 157 RSSemitic i. 184; 2nd ed. 201KennedyEncy. Bib iii. 2991); — absolute ׳שׁ 1 Samuel 20:34 +; construct שֻׁלְחַן 1 Kings 5:7 +; suffix שֻׁלְחָנִי Judges 1:7 +, etc.; plural שֻׁלְחָנוֺת Isaiah 28:8 +, construct שֻׁלְחֲנוֺת 1 Chronicles 28:16 (twice in verse); —
The Hebrew verb “shalach” primarily means “to send” or “to let go.” It is used extensively in the Old Testament to describe:
the act of sending someone or something away,
dispatching a message, or
extending one’s hand.
The term can also imply
releasing or setting free,
as well as the act of stretching out one’s hand,
often in the context of reaching or attacking.
In ancient Hebrew culture, the act of sending was significant in various contexts, including familial, military, and religious settings. Sending a messenger or emissary was a common practice for communication between tribes and nations.
The concept of sending also held spiritual significance, as seen in the sending of prophets or divine messages.
The act of stretching out one’s hand could symbolize authority, blessing, or aggression, depending on the context.
again (5), bade his farewell (1), burned* (1), cast (2), cast off (1), casting (1), certainly let (1), certainly let the go (1), delivered (1), direct (1), dismissed (2), dispatch (1), divorce (3), divorces (1), drive (1), driving them away (1), escort (1), escorted him away (1), extended (2), extends (1), forlorn (1), gave (1), gave them over (1), get rid (1), gets his own way (1), go (11), go away (1), go free (4), grow long (1), laid (2), lay (8), let (8), let her go (2), let him go (3), let me go (4), let my go (11), let my go free (1), let out freely (1), let the go (8), let them down (1), let them go (6), let you go (7), let your loose (1), let go (1), let loose (2), let…down (1), let…go (3), lets his loose (1), lets you go (1), letting the go (1), letting them go (1), letting us go (1), loot (1), pointing (1), put (10), put forth (7), puts (2), putting (1), reached (3), reached* (1), release (2), released (3), remove (1), rushed (1), scattered (1), send (139), send him away (2), send it away (2), send me away (4), send them away (1), send you away (2), send away (4), sending (13), sending me away (1), sending them and again (1), sends (10), sent (420), sent her away (5), sent him away (5), sent his away (1), sent me away (2), sent the away (3), sent them away (9), sent you away (3), sent your away (1), sent away (7), sent…away (3), set (12), set your free (1), set free (1), shot (1), spread (2), spreads (3), stretch (13), stretch forth (3), stretched (11), stretches (2), surely let (1), surely let me go (1), throw (1), thrown (1), thrust (1), urgently send (1), use (1), will (1).
… :11 ; figurative of ׳ י’s sacrificial feast Ezekiel 39:20 (eschatological) . Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance table From shalach; a table (as spread out); by implication, a meal- table. see HEBREW shalach Forms …
As a verb shalach means to send someone away,
to lay a hand on a person.
In other words to forcibly remove a person.
Its very origins lie in the idea of separation.
It is also a word that is sometimes used for a divorce where a woman is forced to leave against her own desires. As a noun, it has been used to represent a spear which follows the idea of sending away as you would throw a spear.
In rare cases, it is used for a table.
We automatically assume that a table represents a place to eat.
Historical information records that tables used for eating were invented by the Greek and Roman cultures.
In Egypt those who were wealthy used pedestals for eating, however the general rule was that everyone else sat and ate on the ground.
When the children of Israel heard the word shalach/table
in their minds it was referring to
the table in the mishkan/tabernacle
where the shewbread was placed
by the priests to show this
separation from the cursed earth.
When kings, leaders or chieftains of different tribes and nations would negotiate peace treaties in ancient times, a table was used. They would serve and share a drink or a meal as a sign of good faith and trust in their agreement; and clearly showed that they weren’t using the opportunity to poison each other.
When people wanted to settle a dispute, the table became a symbol of that desire. It’s a well known phrase that today where situations need to be resolved, we speak about moving to the negotiating table; and so the origin of the Hebrew word shalak meaning: table, comes from the idea of separating one from each other’s differences.
Because the context clearly speaks of the Hebrews complaining about manna, and desiring some variety in their diet, translations associate the table with food and eating. This is not eliminating the association as there are PaRDeS to consider.
However the question remains why David used the word shalach in this verse which merely suggests food, and not the word ‘okel which clearly indicates a variety of food?
We may find an answer in the other psalm where a table in the wilderness was mentioned.
Psalm 78:19: “Yea, they spoke against God; they said, Can God furnish a table in the wilderness?”
This verse tells us that they spoke against God. The word spoke is dabar which are words from one’s heart. Ps. 78:19.
Definition:to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing
Meaning:to arrange, to speak, to subdue
Greek 2980 (λαλέω, laleo) – to speak, to talk
– G2036 (εἶπον, eipon) – to say, to speak
– G4487 (ῥῆμα, rhema) – word, saying
The Hebrew verb “dabar” primarily means “to speak” or “to declare.” It is used extensively throughout the Old Testament to denote the act of speaking, whether it is God speaking to humans,humans speaking to each other, or even the act of declaring or commanding. The word can also imply a formal or authoritative speech, such as a command or a promise. It is a versatile term that encompasses a wide range of verbal communication.
In ancient Hebrew culture, spoken words held significant power and authority. The act of speaking was not merely a means of communication but was often seen as an expression of one’s will or intent. This is particularly evident in the context of divine speech, where God’s words are seen as creative and authoritative, bringing about reality and change. The concept of “dabar” reflects the importance of speech in covenantal relationships, legal settings, and prophetic declarations.
There is a hebrew letter beth placed as a prefix before the word Elohim – God. The Beth is often used for the preposition in or on. And sometimes it can read as meaning: against. So we can read this as they spoke in authority in God.The individuals in question were not foolish enough to speak against Elohim, however they spoke in God suggesting they were speaking God’s will.
If we are honest, many times we tend to do the same, we state God’s will as being our will; with the authority that who can argue against God’s will?
Psalm 78:19 HEB: הֲי֣וּכַל אֵ֑ל לַעֲרֹ֥ךְ שֻׁ֝לְחָ֗ן בַּמִּדְבָּֽר׃ NAS:God prepare a table KJV:God furnish a table INT:Can God prepare A table desert
The word la’arok is in an infinitive construct state which would express a purpose or result. This comes from the root word ‘arak which means: to set in order or arrange.
6186 arak: To arrange, set in order, prepare, compare, value
Original Word:עָרַךְ Transliteration:`arak Pronunciation: ah-RAHK Phonetic Spelling:(aw-rak’) Definition: To arrange, set in order, prepare, compare, value Meaning:to set in a, row, arrange, put in order
G3903 (paratithemi): To set before, to place beside, to present
– G5021 (tasso): To arrange, to appoint, to ordain
The Hebrew verb “arak” primarily means to arrange or set in order. It is used in various contexts, including the preparation of items, the arrangement of troops for battle, and the setting of a table. The word can also imply the act of comparing or valuing something, indicating a process of evaluation or judgment.
In ancient Israelite culture, the concept of order and arrangement was significant, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God bringing order out of chaos. The act of arranging or setting things in order was not only practical but also symbolic of divine order and purpose. In the context of worship, for example, the careful arrangement of offerings and the setting of the table for the showbread in the Tabernacle were acts of reverence and obedience to God’s commands.
in common life (compare RSSem i. 189 f., 2nd ed. 200 f.), arrange a table
NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origin fem. of okel Definition food, eating NASB Translation eat (1 ), food (13), fuel (3 ) . …
https://biblehub.com/hebrew/402.htm
The Psalmist was showing that by wanting to
negotiate with God
they were stating that
redemption was not enough,
the presence of God was not enough,
they wanted more, and they wanted their own fleshly desires satisfied as well.
What they were saying was that, God was big enough to give them all they desired and they could still have His presence as well.
As we often do too, Israel was only fooling themselves. If we are really honest In our hearts, there have been times we do not want a father or a husband/wife, instead we want a sugar daddy who will give us everything on demand.
Instead of visualizing a banqueting table or smorgasbord of physical food to satisfy our flesh life and carnal desires; let’s re-read these verses with our renewed Hebraic mindset, and think more of King David’s position and of the spiritual provision of the abundant life available from our Heavenly Father by His Spirit, through Yeshua/Messiah. Final thoughts in next post…
Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family
and cheverim/friends!
It’s all about Life and Relationship,
NOT Religion.
You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.
NOT SURE?
YOU CAN BE..
SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…
Heavenly Father I come to you in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua asking for forgiveness of my sins for which I am truly sorry. I repent of them all and turn away from my past.
I believe with my heart and confess with my mouth that Jesus/Yeshua is your Son and that He died on the cross at calvary to pay the price for my sin, so that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. Father I believe that Jesus/Yeshua rose from the dead and I ask you to come into my life right now and be my personal Savior and Lord and I will worship you all the days of my life. Because your word is truth I say that I am now forgiven and born again and by faith I am washed clean with the blood of Jesus/Yeshua. Thank you that you have accepted me into your family in Jesus’/Yeshua’s name. Amen.
Psalm 23 is probably the most well known psalm and has most likely had more sermons preached, teachings given on it, with more books and commentaries written about it than any other in the Bible.
Psalms 23:5: 
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