As we seek to understand the explanation of this psalm, it is imperative to note the definition of a shepherd. According to Dictionary.com, a shepherd is “a person who herds, tends and guards sheep;” it also means “a person who protects, guides, watches over a person or group of people” (Dictionary.com). A shepherd knows that sheep are very needy creatures and cannot take care of themselves adequately. The shepherd leads them to areas where there is proper food and water …show more content…
The shepherd represents the Lord, symbolizing his watch care over his sheep. The calming phrase, “to lie down in green pastures,” gives us a vision of the sheep assured and not worried, resting comfortably. As the narrator paints the picture of being made to “lie down in green pastures,” it highlights something more exciting and significant: the provision of nourishment and comfort. Sheep need nourishment to survive and the shepherd must know where the sheep must stop to eat and