probably of Hebrew origin (feminine from שָׁלוֹם); Salome (i.e. Shelomah), an Israelitess:--Salome.
Transliteration:Salṓmē
Pronunciation:sal-o'-may
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4539 (Salṓmē) is a proper noun, transliterated as Salome. Its base definition indicates a probable Hebrew origin, deriving from the feminine form of שָׁלוֹם (shalom, `{{H7965}}`). The root שָׁלוֹם is rich in meaning, encompassing concepts of peace, wholeness, completeness, welfare, prosperity, and well-being. Thus, Salome, as a proper name, carries the inherent meaning of "peaceful" or "she who brings peace." While its semantic range is restricted to identifying a specific individual, the etymological connection to שָׁלוֹם imbues the name with profound theological resonance, linking the person named to the divine attribute and gift of peace.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Salome (G4539) appears twice in the New Testament, exclusively within the Gospel of Mark, identifying a specific female follower of Jesus.
1. **[[Mark 15:40]]**: "There were also some women looking on from a distance, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and Joses, and Salome." Here, Salome is identified as one of the faithful women who remained near Jesus during his crucifixion, bearing witness to his suffering and death. Her presence at this critical moment highlights her unwavering devotion and courage in a time when many male disciples had fled.
2. **[[Mark 16:1]]**: "When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body." This verse places Salome among the first women to visit Jesus' tomb on the morning of the resurrection. Their intention to anoint the body demonstrates their continued devotion and care, even after his death. It is to these women, including Salome, that the angel first announces the resurrection, making them the initial witnesses and heralds of the good news.
It is crucial to distinguish this Salome, an Israelitess and devout follower of Jesus, from the unnamed daughter of Herodias who danced for Herod Antipas and requested John the Baptist's head ([[Mark 6:22-28]]). The Salome of G4539 is consistently portrayed as a loyal disciple, present at the most pivotal moments of Christ's passion and resurrection.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for G4539 is to the Hebrew word שָׁלוֹם (shalom, `{{H7965}}`). This term is foundational to biblical theology, representing not merely the absence of conflict but a holistic state of well-being, harmony, and right relationship with God, self, and others. In the New Testament, the concept of peace (Greek: εἰρήνη, eirēnē, `{{G1515}}`) is frequently linked to Christ's redemptive work, who is himself "our peace" ([[Ephesians 2:14]]).
Beyond its etymological root, Salome is contextually related to other women disciples mentioned in the Gospels, such as Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James. These women collectively represent the significant role of female followers in Jesus' ministry, their faithful presence, and their vital function as witnesses to the central events of the Gospel narrative. Concepts such as discipleship, devotion, courage, and witness are intimately associated with Salome's biblical portrayal.
### Theological Significance
Salome's presence at both the crucifixion and the empty tomb imbues her character with profound theological significance. As a witness to Christ's suffering, she embodies faithful endurance and solidarity with the crucified Messiah. Her subsequent journey to the tomb, intending to perform an act of loving service, positions her among the first recipients of the resurrection message. This highlights the divine choice to reveal the greatest truth of salvation history—Christ's victory over death—first to a group of faithful women.
Her name, "peace," while perhaps coincidental in its application to a historical figure, resonates powerfully with the events she witnesses. The crucifixion, a moment of ultimate suffering, ultimately leads to the peace of reconciliation with God through Christ's sacrifice. The resurrection, which Salome is among the first to learn of, establishes the foundation for true and lasting peace for all believers. Thus, Salome, the "peaceful one," stands at the threshold of the ultimate peace wrought by Christ's triumph. She represents the quiet, steadfast devotion that is rewarded with a glimpse into the glory of God's redemptive plan.
### Summary
G4539 (Salṓmē) is a Greek proper noun derived from the Hebrew שָׁלוֹם (shalom, `{{H7965}}`), signifying "peace" or "peaceful." This name identifies a faithful woman disciple of Jesus, mentioned in the Gospel of Mark. Salome is notably present at the crucifixion of Jesus ([[Mark 15:40]]), demonstrating unwavering devotion in his suffering. She is also among the women who go to the tomb on resurrection morning, becoming one of the first to learn of Christ's triumph over death ([[Mark 16:1]]). Her role underscores the critical importance of female witness in the Gospel narratives. The etymological meaning of her name, "peace," subtly connects her to the profound peace that is the ultimate outcome of Christ's redemptive work, making her a quiet yet significant figure in the unfolding of salvation history.
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