The Hebrew name Yᵉhôvâh shâlôwm, represented by H3073, is a symbolic title meaning Jehovah (is) peace. It appears only 1 time in 1 verse in the entire Bible. This name is not used for a person but is given to an altar, signifying a profound statement about the character of God as the source of peace.
The single biblical occurrence of H3073 is found in the narrative of Gideon. After a direct encounter with the LORD, Gideon built an altar in a place called Ophrah. He then called H7121 it Jehovahshalom H3073 as a memorial of the event. This act establishes the location as a site of remembrance for the peace God provided, with the text noting that the altar remained there "unto this day" in the land of the Abiezrites Judges 6:24.
Several related words provide a deeper understanding of the context surrounding this name:
- H1439 Gidʻôwn (Gideon): This name for the Israelite warrior who built the altar highlights the setting of conflict from which the declaration of peace emerged. His actions, such as worshipping God after receiving divine reassurance, show his role as an agent of the LORD's will Judges 7:15.
- H3068 Yᵉhôvâh (Jehovah, the Lord): This is the Jewish national name of God, signifying the self-Existent or Eternal One. The name Jehovah-shalom directly links the very being of the LORD to the concept of peace, as affirmed in passages where the LORD declares His "thoughts of peace" toward His people Jeremiah 29:11.
- H4196 mizbêach (an altar): The object named Jehovah-shalom was an altar. Altars were central places for worship, sacrifice, and divine encounter, as seen when Abram builded H1129 an altar unto the LORD where He had appeared to him Genesis 12:7.
- H7121 qârâʼ (to call): This root word, meaning to call or give a name, signifies a proclamation of identity or purpose. Naming something was a significant act, often defining its character, as when a prophesied child's name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor Isaiah 9:6.
The theological weight of H3073 is focused entirely on its specific context:
- A Memorial of God's Presence: The altar, named Jehovahshalom, was built H1129 by Gideon H1439 as a tangible reminder that the LORD H3068 had appeared and spoken peace to him in a moment of fear Judges 6:24.
- Peace from God, Not Circumstances: By naming the altar "The LORD is peace," Gideon made a declaration of faith. In a time of national distress and oppression, he affirmed that true peace originates from Yᵉhôvâh H3068, not from the absence of conflict.
- A Revelation of God's Character: The name is a direct theological statement. It reveals that peace is an intrinsic part of God's nature. He is not merely a giver of peace but is, in His essence, Peace itself. This is consistent with other scriptures where the LORD reveals His intentions are for peace Jeremiah 29:11.
In summary, Yᵉhôvâh shâlôwm H3073 is a powerful and specific compound name for God. Though found only once, its meaning resonates throughout Scripture. It commemorates a pivotal moment where Gideon's fear was replaced with faith, and it serves as an enduring testament that the LORD Himself is the ultimate source of all peace, an altar built in a time of war becoming a permanent symbol of His peaceful nature.
TRV