YHWH the Hunter
Psalm 23:6 is a powerful verse that encapsulates the enduring love and pursuit of God. The verse states, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever" (ESV). Let's explore the profound meaning behind this verse, with a special focus on the word "follow."
In Hebrew, the word used for "follow" in Psalm 23:6 is "radaph," which indeed carries the connotation of pursuit. The literal translation of "radaph" is "to chase" or "to hunt." This paints a vivid picture of God actively and passionately pursuing us, much like a hunter relentlessly pursuing its prey.
The choice of this word is significant because it implies not only a passive following but an intense, purposeful pursuit. God's pursuit of us is not casual or indifferent; it is deliberate, persistent, and filled with love. The image of God as a hunter conveys the idea that He is actively seeking a relationship with us, desiring to draw us close to Him.
The context of Psalm 23 adds another layer of depth to this pursuit. The entire psalm is a beautiful portrayal of the relationship between God and His people, using the metaphor of a shepherd caring for his sheep. In the shepherd/sheep analogy, the shepherd is deeply invested in the well-being of the flock, providing guidance, protection, and sustenance.
When we reach the concluding verse, we find that God's pursuit goes beyond just providing for our needs. "Goodness and mercy" are not distant or passive attributes but are personified as agents actively pursuing us. This relentless pursuit is not limited to specific moments or circumstances; it spans "all the days of my life." It is a continuous, unwavering pursuit that extends throughout our entire journey.
The ultimate destination of this pursuit is profound: "I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." The pursuit is not merely for a season but for eternity. God's desire is for an everlasting relationship, an eternal dwelling in His presence.
In summary, Psalm 23:6, with its use of the word "follow" in Hebrew, paints a beautiful and compelling picture of God as a pursuing, hunting force of goodness and mercy in our lives. It speaks of a relentless, intentional pursuit that spans our entire existence, leading us to an eternal dwelling in the presence of the Lord.
