### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shᵉlam**, represented by `{{H8000}}`, corresponds to the Hebrew שָׁלַם and carries the meaning **to complete, to restore; deliver, finish**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage points to acts of finality, whether bringing a project to its conclusion, delivering items to their destination, or an authority declaring an end.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H8000}}` is used in specific, significant moments. In the interpretation of the writing on the wall, it signifies divine judgment, where God has numbered a kingdom and **finished** it [[Daniel 5:26]]. In the context of rebuilding the temple, the term is used to state that the project, though in progress for a long time, "is not **finished**" [[Ezra 5:16]]. Finally, it is used as a command to **deliver** sacred vessels for the service of the house of God in Jerusalem, completing their journey and restoring them to their purpose [[Ezra 7:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller picture of the concept of completion and divine action:
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): This word highlights the process leading to completion. In Ezra, the house of God has been in **building** `{{H1124}}` for a long time, but it is not yet **finished** `{{H8000}}`, showing a contrast between the ongoing work and the final state [[Ezra 5:16]].
* `{{H4483}}` **mᵉnâʼ** (to count, appoint): Used directly alongside `{{H8000}}` in Daniel's interpretation, it signifies a divine accounting. God has **numbered** `{{H4483}}` the kingdom and **finished** `{{H8000}}` it, linking the concepts of measurement and finality [[Daniel 5:26]].
* `{{H3052}}` **yᵉhab** (to give, deliver, pay): This word is linked to the idea of transferal and fulfillment. The vessels are **given** `{{H3052}}` for service, and the command is to **deliver** `{{H8000}}` them, connecting the act of giving with the act of completing the delivery [[Ezra 7:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8000}}` is demonstrated through its specific applications:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** The word is used to declare the end of a king's dominion. When God has **finished** a kingdom, it signifies His absolute authority over human empires and the finality of His judgment [[Daniel 5:26]].
* **Completion of Sacred Projects:** The building of the house of God is a central theme in Ezra. The state of being "not **finished**" `{{H8000}}` highlights the importance of bringing God's work to its intended conclusion according to His will [[Ezra 5:16]].
* **Restoration and Consecration:** The command to **deliver** `{{H8000}}` the temple vessels is an act of restoring what is holy to its proper place. This completes their return and reconsecrates them for the **service** `{{H6402}}` of God's house [[Ezra 7:19]].
### Summary
In summary, **shᵉlam** `{{H8000}}` is a potent Aramaic term for bringing something to its appointed end. Though used only three times, its applications are significant, spanning the finality of divine judgment on a kingdom, the physical completion of the house of God, and the faithful delivery and restoration of sacred objects. The word illustrates that whether in judgment or in building, God's plan involves a definitive completion and a final restoration.
TRV