What is Shalom?

The ancient Hebrew concept of peace, rooted in the word “shalom,” meant wholeness, completeness, soundness, health, safety and prosperity, carrying with it the implication of permanence.

Shalom, a Hebrew word often translated simply as "peace," encompasses a far richer and deeper meaning than its English counterpart. It signifies not merely the absence of conflict or strife, but a state of completeness, wholeness, and flourishing. To truly understand Shalom is to grasp the essence of health in its fullest sense – a harmony that permeates every aspect of existence.

In the biblical narrative, Shalom is portrayed as an integral aspect of God's design for creation. From the very beginning, the book of Genesis depicts a world characterized by perfect harmony – a state in which all things exist in their intended order and purpose. Humanity, created in the image of God, was designed to experience this Shalom in its entirety – physically, emotionally, spiritually, and socially.

However, the rupture caused by human rebellion, commonly referred to as the Fall, shattered this idyllic state of Shalom. The consequences of sin introduced brokenness into every facet of existence, fracturing the harmonious relationship between humanity, God, and creation itself. Yet, even in the midst of this brokenness, glimpses of Shalom persisted, serving as a reminder of God's ultimate desire for restoration and reconciliation. I will call this connection.

Throughout the biblical narrative, we encounter numerous examples of Shalom in action, illustrating its transformative power and significance. The Psalms, in particular, overflow with expressions of longing for Shalom – a desire for wholeness and well-being in the midst of adversity. Psalm 23, perhaps one of the most beloved passages, paints a vivid picture of Shalom as the Shepherd leads His sheep beside quiet waters and restores their souls. David often cries out to God throughout the Psalms for reconnection, repentance, during times of grief, and to be made whole.

“Shalom” can be used generally to describe the well-being of persons or communities, and “peace” is a particular and common development of that sense. There is “a time for war, and a time for peace [shalom],” Ecclesiastes 3:8 tells us. A related meaning is physical health: in Isaiah 53:5 it is used in this sense as a metaphor. So the REB translates: “The chastisement he bore restored us to health.” Matthew 8:17 takes literally the previous verse, 53:4, about “our infirmities” and “our diseases,” and applies it to the healing ministry of Jesus. In Hebrew narratives there is a colloquial question one asks a newcomer: Hashalom? At 2 Kings 9:11 the King James Version (KJV) renders this “Is all well?” Updating a little, the New Revised Standard Version and New International Version (NIV) both translate it as “Is everything all right?”

Moreover, the ministry of Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate embodiment of Shalom. Through His teachings, miracles, and ultimately His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus ushered in a new era of Shalom – a kingdom characterized by healing, reconciliation, and redemption. His ministry was marked by acts of compassion towards the sick, marginalized, and broken, demonstrating that true health encompasses far more than mere physical well-being.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul articulates the profound implications of Shalom for believers. In his letter to the Philippians, he speaks of a peace that surpasses understanding, guarding hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. This peace, rooted in the reconciling work of Christ, serves as the foundation for true health – a holistic restoration of body, mind, and spirit.

As followers of Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of Shalom in a world marred by brokenness and division. This entails not only seeking personal wholeness but actively pursuing the well-being of others and participating in the work of reconciliation and restoration. It means embodying the love and compassion of Christ in our relationships, communities, and spheres of influence. It means searching for true connection with the Creator, and healing from the Divine Healer (Jehovah-Rapha).

Final Thoughts

The concept of Shalom offers a profound paradigm for understanding health in its fullest sense. It beckons us to embrace a vision of wholeness that transcends mere physical well-being, encompassing every dimension of human existence. As we journey through life, may we strive to embody the transformative power of Shalom – bringing healing, reconciliation, and flourishing to a world in desperate need of God's peace.

Wishing You Shalom,

Cody Thompson, PT, DPT, GCS, CFMP