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Psalm 23:4, which states, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (ESV), is one of the most famous verses in the Bible. It is often used at funerals or by those facing death. The message of Psalm 23:4 brings comfort. We do not need to be afraid. God is by our side, and His presence provides us with strength and hope.
However, the translation “valley of the shadow of death” may not be the most precise rendering of the original Hebrew text. The NIV, NLT, and HCBS translate it as “darkest valley,” resulting in Psalm 23:4 saying, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley . . . .” The Hebrew term for “shadow of death” is sal-ma-wet, which means “darkness” or “dark shadows.” It shares the same root as the Hebrew word for “death” (ma-wet), hence why some Bible translators include the reference to death in Psalm 23:4.
Moreover, the idea of darkness aligns better with the context of Psalm 23. Psalm 23, particularly verses 1–4, uses the imagery of a shepherd and his flock to depict our relationship with God: “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. . . . Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:1-4).
Sheep do not comprehend the concept of death. However, they do recognize that entering a dark valley can pose risks. The essence of Psalm 23:4 is that, even when we may have cause to be afraid, we
We do not need to fear because God is with us, and He will take care of us. He, like a shepherd, knows what He is doing and has our best interests in mind.
So, it does not appear that the “valley of the shadow of death” is the most accurate translation in Psalm 23:4. A “dark valley” connects much better with sheep lying down in green pastures and beside quiet waters. However, the main point of Psalm 23:4 still definitely applies to death. Many people fear death, and those facing death certainly feel as if they are in a “dark valley.” But even in death, we do not need to fear, for God is with us, and He will protect and comfort us through it all.
