There are many Biblical versions of “The Valley of the Shadow of Death”. Here are twenty of them:
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Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death.
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Give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death.
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I walk through the [sunless] valley of the shadow of death.
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Shine upon those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death.
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When I walk through the darkest valley.
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I may walk through valleys as dark as death.
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Who lives in the dark shadow of death.
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I may pass through death-dark ravines.
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Enlighten them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death.
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I walk through a valley as dark as the grave.
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It will bring light to those who live in darkness, in the fear of death.
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Even if I walk through a very dark valley.
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Even if I go through the deepest darkness.
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Shine from heaven on all those who live in the dark shadow of death.
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God will help those who live in darkness, in the fear of death.
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I walk through a valley of deep darkness.
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He will give light to those who live in the dark and in death’s shadow.
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To give light to them that sit in darknesses and in the shadow of death.
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Give light to those sitting in darkness and death-shade.
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I walk in a valley of death-shade.
This isn’t a real physical valley; it’s a metaphysical valley. What is a valley—a feeling of constriction—no freedom to go sideways? But valleys go up and they go down. Which way shall we traverse the valley? The down direction might indicate some releasing. The up direction might foreshadow an escape to a wonderful view on a higher plane, finding some headwaters.
What is a shadow? A shadow is simply—less light. Where there is less light, a pattern is visible, and it comes from a pattern of “more light”.
Modern scenario:
A person may think… I have come to my wits end. I think I will ask Aunt Matilda. Dear old Matilda, she has lived so long and has probably seen everything. I bet she has had a similar experience and will tell me what to do... She just told me to relax and remember what Uncle Wild Bill said. I never saw him. I give up.
Wait, wait, wait. Well, maybe there’s something… Hmm.
I was wondering about something, but what was it? I’m tired. I need a nap. Maybe tomorrow.
“All Saints Day”:
Hey, what if I did this and that? That would really surprise somebody. And I know who, too. I’m gonna try that. Hey “kids” here’s what we're gonna do. Don’t worry, I know what I’m talking about. You’ll see. Well, let’s at least try it.
After 21 days:
Wow, that worked out very well. I’m not in that “Valley of What Was It” anymore. Thank you, Universe. I’m doing a lot better now. Hey, I bet I could handle my next problem soon. That one wasn’t so bad after all.
10/29/23