### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâlâh**, represented by `{{H7951}}`, is a primitive root that means to be tranquil, secure, or successful. Its definition includes concepts like being happy, prospering, and being in safety. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible, often highlighting a state of ease and prosperity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7951}}` is frequently used in the context of questioning why the wicked seem to thrive. Jeremiah asks why the treacherous are **happy** [[Jeremiah 12:1]], and Job observes that the "tabernacles of robbers **prosper**" [[Job 12:6]]. Similarly, Lamentations notes that Jerusalem's enemies **prosper** as a consequence of her transgressions [[Lamentations 1:5]]. Conversely, it is also presented as a blessing for the righteous, with the promise that those who love Jerusalem "shall **prosper**" [[Psalms 122:6]]. In a personal lament, Job uses the word in a negative sense, stating, "I was not in **safety**," to describe his loss of tranquility [[Job 3:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the dimensions of tranquility and success associated with `{{H7951}}`:
* `{{H6743}}` **tsâlach** (to push forward, prosper): This word is often used to describe success and is seen in parallel with `{{H7951}}` when questioning why the way of the wicked appears to **prosper** [[Jeremiah 12:1]].
* `{{H7965}}` **shâlôwm** (welfare, prosperity, peace): This term for well-being and peace is directly linked to the blessing of prosperity, as seen in the call to pray for the **peace** of Jerusalem so that its lovers may prosper [[Psalms 122:6]].
* `{{H8252}}` **shâqaṭ** (to repose, be quiet, rest): This word for quietness is used alongside `{{H7951}}` in Job's lament. He states he was not in safety and had no **rest**, illustrating that the loss of one is tied to the loss of the other [[Job 3:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7951}}` is tied to the biblical examination of prosperity and justice.
* **The Problem of Evil:** The word is central to the question of why the wicked are allowed to be **happy** or **prosper**. This is a significant theological dilemma raised in Jeremiah and Job, challenging a simple understanding of divine retribution ([[Jeremiah 12:1]], [[Job 12:6]]).
* **Conditional Blessing:** Prosperity is not arbitrary; it is presented as a divine blessing conditioned on right attitudes and actions. The promise that those who love Jerusalem shall **prosper** ties this state of well-being to faithfulness and prayer [[Psalms 122:6]].
* **A State of Security:** As seen in Job's experience, `{{H7951}}` represents a state of **safety** and tranquility that is precious and can be lost. Its absence, coupled with a lack of rest, defines a state of deep trouble and affliction [[Job 3:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7951}}` encapsulates a state of tranquility, happiness, and prosperity. It serves a dual role in scripture, functioning both as a divine blessing for the faithful and as a focal point for the profound theological question of why the wicked often seem secure and successful. Through its occurrences, **shâlâh** highlights the complex relationship between righteousness, security, and God's sovereignty.
TRV