Shalom

Shalom is a Hebrew word that generally translates as peace, but it also carries senses of harmony, welfare, completeness, and safety. The root sh-l-m yields related words such as shalem (complete) and shalom itself. In biblical Hebrew, shalom denotes both personal well-being and the welfare of a community, as well as the absence of conflict. It can describe a tranquil state or a functioning, secure society.

In modern Hebrew, shalom is used as a greeting and farewell, roughly equivalent to hello or goodbye depending on context. It is also central in Jewish liturgy and thought, where peace is tied to divine harmony and communal welfare. Common phrases include shalom aleichem (peace be upon you) and Shabbat shalom (peaceful Sabbath). Concepts such as shalom bayit (domestic harmony) and general welfare are widely discussed in Jewish ethics and daily life.

Shalom is a common given name for men in Israel and in Jewish communities worldwide; it may appear as a surname or as part of institutional names. The term also appears in translations of scripture and in religious music and poetry.

Cognates appear in other Semitic languages; in Arabic the related word is salam. In modern usage, shalom has become a symbol of peaceful coexistence and mutual welfare beyond its literal meaning of peace.