Shalom

The Hebrew word Jesus used for peace here, is shalom, derived from the root word ‘shalam’, which means ‘make it whole again’ or ‘restitution’.

As you read through the Bible, you soon realise that this word shalom has many more nuances and applications than merely meaning peace.

For instance, in Gen 3:27-28 Joseph askes his brothers: Then he asked them about their well-being, and said, “Is your father well, the old man of whom you spoke? Is he still alive?” And they answered, “Your servant our father is in good health; he is still alive.” And they bowed their heads down and prostrated themselves. In Hebrew, the words translated as well-being, well, and good health is all one word – shalom.

The biblical meaning of shalom is an inward state of completeness, wholeness, tranquillity. It is used as a greeting in Israel today, but when you greet someone with ‘Shalom!’ you are actually saying, “May health and prosperity rest with you!” Another common greeting used is “Ma shlom’kha” which means “How are you?” Do you see the word shalom in there? You are really asking, “How is your completeness or how is your peace?”

When God gave Moses the Aaronic blessing (Numbers 6:23) to speak over Israel, it ended with “And give you peace (shalom).” This was given when Israel was preparing to take over the Promised Land, leading to many battles of war. God was blessing them with an inner peace and completeness even in times of war, by sharing in His countenance and protection.

When we are asked to pray for the peace (shalom) of Jerusalem (Ps 122:6) it is not merely in order that Jerusalem can exist without conflict, it is so that Jerusalem can fulfil her destiny to be restored to completeness and become the city of our great King Jesus! We are thus praying for the return of Israel’s Messiah, our Prince of Peace, to establish His throne in Jerusalem.

In Luke 2:14 the angels announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, and said Glory in the Highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men! With these words they did not declare that suddenly all wars on earth would end, they proclaimed the fact that true peace could only now be obtained through the personal presence of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

And He is the only way by which we can obtain this peace, as Jesus promises in John 14:27 – I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

Points to ponder:  Am I going to take Jesus up on His word?