Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Shalom Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

✌️
Add to dictionary

shalom

[ʃəˈloʊm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

greeting or farewell

Shalom is a Hebrew word that means peace. It is used as a greeting and farewell, reflecting a wish for peace and well-being for the person being addressed. The word carries deep cultural and spiritual significance, embodying a concept of harmony and completeness.

Synonyms

goodbye, hello, peace.

Examples of usage

  • He greeted me with a warm 'shalom'.
  • The community's motto is 'shalom for all'.
  • At the end of the service, the rabbi said 'shalom'.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Jewish tradition, saying 'shalom' reflects a desire for peace and goodwill among people.
  • It is commonly used during festivals, religious ceremonies, and everyday interactions, embodying community and connection.
  • Many Jewish communities around the world incorporate 'shalom' in their prayers and celebrations, highlighting its importance in faith.

Literature

  • 'Shalom' appears in various religious texts, including the Jewish Bible, where it often represents God's blessings upon humanity.
  • The concept of peace encapsulated by 'shalom' has been explored in literature as a fundamental human desire across cultures.
  • Modern literature often juxtaposes 'shalom' with themes of conflict, exploring its deeper implications in society and personal relationships.

Psychology

  • Greeting someone with 'shalom' can foster a positive mindset and improve interpersonal relationships by promoting goodwill.
  • Research suggests that expressing peace-related sentiments can enhance feelings of well-being and belonging among individuals.
  • The emotional weight of 'shalom' in social interactions can lead to reduced stress and anxiety, creating a more supportive environment.

Global Influence

  • 'Shalom' has transcended its Hebrew origins and is recognized in many cultures, symbolizing universal peace.
  • Various peace initiatives and organizations adopt the word, illustrating its significance in promoting global harmony.
  • In contemporary settings, 'shalom' is sometimes used in discussions about conflict resolution and diplomacy, emphasizing dialogue and understanding.

Origin of 'shalom'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Hebrew, where it is rooted in the word 'shalem,' meaning whole or complete.
  • In ancient times, 'shalom' was not just a wish for peace but also a greeting that implied a sense of well-being.
  • The word has been part of Jewish culture and rituals for thousands of years, symbolizing harmony and reconciliation.

The word 'shalom' has its roots in the Hebrew language, dating back to ancient times. It is derived from the Hebrew root 'š-l-m', which means 'to be complete' or 'to be whole'. This reflects the concept of peace not just as an absence of conflict but as a state of completeness and fulfillment. Shalom has been used in various Jewish rituals and traditions, serving as a central term in greetings and farewells among Hebrew speakers. The word also appears in the Bible, emphasizing its significance in Jewish culture and spirituality. Over time, 'shalom' has transcended cultural boundaries, finding its way into common use in broader contexts, symbolizing goodwill and harmonious relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,132, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.