LUX VERITAS

Dictionary entry

שָׁלוֹם

Shalom

Peace as wholeness — not merely the absence of war.

The root shalem points to something complete, whole, lacking nothing. To wish someone shalom is to wish that nothing in their life be broken: health, justice, relationships, provision. That is why the priestly blessing of Numbers 6 ends on exactly this word.

Where it appears

  • Numbers 6:26
  • Isaiah 9:6