Context

You won't the valley of the shadow of death on any map (well, maybe a map of Mordor), but that doesn't mean this line is obscure.

In fact, it's one of the most well-known lines in the most well-known Biblical psalms, Psalm 23, which begins "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." Apparently, even if you do find yourself walking through this creepy valley, you "will fear no evil."

With God on your side, you don't even have death to fear, according to Psalm 23. It's still going to happen…you just don't have to be afraid.

Where you've heard it

The whole "fear[ing] no evil" thing makes this the Bible quote of choice for self-proclaimed tough guys, like the marine sergeant in Jarhead (heads up: there is some decidedly un-Biblical language in this video).

Additional Notable References

• This guy argues that Psalm 23, even with its "shadow of death" imagery, should not be used at funerals.

• Remember when Jesus walked through a gangsta's paradise with Michelle Pfeiffer? Oh, right, that was Coolio.

Pretentious Factor

If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.

Not fearing death is a popular theme, one that may have gotten its start right here.