Keywords
(absolute) metaphor
reality of life
Conceptualisation
YHWH
Shepherd
suzerian
vassal
How to Cite
Abstract
By means of metaphor, the less tangible can be made more tangible. This also applies to the declaration “The LORD is my shepherd” (Ps 23:1b). For a detailed approach to this declaration and the psalms, the focus here is first on conceptual perception (of God) and the Conceptual Metaphor Theory. It is then applied to the declaration, “The LORD is my shepherd,” unfolded in its radiant effect on the entire psalm and merged again into one. The aim is to prove that metaphorical conceptualisation makes the world shine in a new light and become experienceable, as the psalmist experienced in the encounter with God, making himself perceptible to him. Concretely, the psalmist explores the world of the Ancient Near East and of the confidential personal relationship between himself and God in the image of the shepherd-king and the human being-sheep. He underlines the covenant relationship between the Lord and the vassal – and thus the possibility of becoming a reality in one’s personal life.
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