In the Bible, "shalom" (שלום) translates to more than just "peace" in the English sense. It signifies a state of well-being, wholeness, and completeness, encompassing both inner and outer prosperity, security, and right relationships with God and others. It's not merely the absence of conflict, but a positive state of flourishing in all aspects of life.
Here's a breakdown of the concept:
More than just absence of conflict:
Shalom goes beyond a cease-fire or the absence of war. It implies a positive state of harmony and flourishing.
Wholeness and well-being:
It encompasses physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being, signifying a state of being complete and healthy.
Right relationships:
Shalom involves right relationships with God, oneself, and others, including justice and reconciliation.
Flourishing and prosperity:
It signifies a state of thriving and prosperity in all areas of life.
The concept of shalom is central to biblical themes of salvation and redemption. God's desire for humanity is shalom, and through Jesus Christ, God offers reconciliation and restoration, bringing shalom to a broken world, according to The Bible Project. The prophet Isaiah looked forward to the arrival of a future king who would establish a covenant of shalom, a promise fulfilled in Jesus, according to The Bible Project.
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