Understanding Peace from a Hebraic Perspective

Introduction to Peace as an Abstract Concept

• Peace is often understood as an abstract term.
• To grasp its meaning from a Hebraic perspective, we need to revert to concrete meanings.

The Hebrew Word "Shalom"

• Commonly used in phrases like "Shabbat Shalom" or "Shalom Al."
• Literally translated, it doesn't just mean "peace" in the abstract sense.

Meaning of Shalom

• Derived from the root word "Shalom," which is used primarily in the context of restitution.
• Restitution implies making something whole and complete.
  • Example: If a cow is stolen, the victim is no longer whole.
  • Restitution involves returning a cow to make the person whole again.

Shalom as Restitution

• Shalom = To make one whole and complete.
• Saying "Shalom Al" means, "May you be whole and complete, may you have everything you need to be complete."

Shabbat Shalom

• When saying "Shabbat Shalom," you are wishing for a Sabbath that is whole and complete, with all that is needed for completeness.

Praying for the Peace of Jerusalem

• "Shalu Shalom Yerushalayim" is a phrase from the Book of Psalms, encouraging prayer for Jerusalem's peace.
• Traditionally interpreted as the absence of war, but truly it's about making Jerusalem whole and complete.
• Jerusalem's current state is incomplete without the temple.
  • The temple's presence signifies completeness and Shalom.

Conclusion

• The Hebraic understanding of Shalom extends beyond peace as a lack of conflict; it's about completeness and wholeness.