Hebrew · Strong's H7965
שָׁלוֹם
shalom (shah-LOHM)
noun, masculine
Wholeness, completeness, well-being — far richer than mere absence of conflict.
Shalom is one of the great Hebrew words of the Old Testament. Far from a mere greeting or the absence of war, shalom denotes the comprehensive wholeness of God's intended order: physical health, emotional peace, social harmony, covenantal righteousness, material flourishing, and right relationship with God all together.
The Aaronic blessing (Numbers 6:24-26) climaxes in shalom. Isaiah 9:6 names the Messiah Sar-Shalom, 'Prince of Peace.' Jeremiah 29:11 promises plans 'of shalom and not of evil.' The New Testament greek eirēnē (G1515) inherits this fullness, and Jesus bequeaths his shalom to his disciples in John 14:27.
Common English renderings
- peace
- welfare
- well-being
- prosperity
- soundness
Key verses
"Jehovah bless thee, and keep thee: Jehovah make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: Jehovah lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."
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"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
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"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee; because he trusteth in thee."
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"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith Jehovah, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you hope in your latter end."
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"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful."
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Related words