<P> J. Douglas MacMillan argues that verse 5 ("Thou preparest a table before me") refers to the "old oriental shepherding practice" of using little raised tables to feed sheep . Similarly, "Thou anointest my head with oil" may refer to an ancient form of backliner--the oil is poured on wounds, and repels flies . MacMillan also notes that verse 6 ("Goodness and mercy shall follow me") reminds him of two loyal sheepdogs coming behind the flock . </P> <P> John Ellinwood argues that in verses 4 and 5 King David acknowledges God's protection in expeditions and in battles . "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies" refers to the sober raucous dinner before major battles . These were raucous in order to demoralize hostiles camped within earshot, and (only) the king ate from a table . "Thou anointest my head with oil" because tomorrow this ceremony might be impossible . After each victory there was no longer a need for sobriety, so "my cup runneth over ." The king's lyricist wisely shortened these military verses for balance . Also in Psalm 18 David mentions God's protection in battle . (13). </P> <P> The first verse of the Psalm ascribes authorship to King David, said in the Hebrew Scriptures to have been a field shepherd himself as a youth . However, some scholars do not believe that David could have written any of the Psalms . </P> <P> Psalm 23 is traditionally sung by Jews in Hebrew at the third Shabbat meal on Saturday afternoon . </P>

Who wrote psalm 23 the lord is my shepherd
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