### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shᵉlômôh**, represented by `{{H8010}}`, is defined as **peaceful** and refers to Solomon, David's successor. Derived from the word for peace, שָׁלוֹם (shâlôwm), this name appears **293 times** across **263 unique verses**. It designates one of the most significant figures in Israel's history, known for his wisdom, wealth, and the construction of the first Temple in Jerusalem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8010}}` is central to the transition of Israel's kingdom from David to his son. Solomon's reign begins with a divine encounter where God appears to him in a dream and invites him to ask for anything he desires [[1 Kings 3:5]]. God grants him unparalleled wisdom and understanding [[1 Kings 4:29]]. This wisdom is a defining feature of his kingship, drawing figures like the queen of Sheba to test him with hard questions [[1 Kings 10:1]]. A major focus of his rule is the construction of the house of the LORD, a task his father David prepared for him ([[1 Chronicles 22:5]], [[1 Kings 6:1]]). However, his story also includes a significant decline, as he loved many foreign women who turned his heart after other gods, provoking the LORD's anger ([[1 Kings 11:1-2]], [[1 Kings 11:9]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for Solomon's life and reign:
* `{{H7965}}` **shâlôwm** (welfare, i.e. health, prosperity, peace): This is the root of Solomon's name. God explicitly connects his name to this concept, promising to give peace and quietness to Israel during his days [[1 Chronicles 22:9]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is crucial to Solomon's identity as the heir to David's throne and covenant promises. He is repeatedly identified as "Solomon the son of David" [[Proverbs 1:1]], establishing his lineage and right to rule.
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak** (to reign): Solomon's life is defined by his kingship. David made Solomon king over Israel before his death [[1 Chronicles 23:1]], and his son Rehoboam reigned in his place [[1 Kings 11:43]].
* `{{H2451}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom): This is the characteristic for which Solomon is most famous. God gave Solomon wisdom exceeding that of all other people [[1 Kings 4:29-30]], a gift that all the kings of the earth sought to hear [[1 Kings 10:24]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): Solomon's primary charge was to build the house of the LORD. His reign is marked by monumental building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem and his own palace [[1 Kings 9:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8010}}` is demonstrated through Solomon's complex legacy, which offers several profound lessons.
* **A Story of Conditional Covenant:** Solomon's life exemplifies the principle of divine blessing being tied to obedience. His father David charges him to serve God with a perfect heart, warning that if he forsakes God, he will be cast off forever [[1 Chronicles 28:9]]. Later, the LORD affirms that because Solomon's heart turned away, the kingdom would be torn from him [[1 Kings 11:11]].
* **Wisdom as a Divine Gift:** Solomon's request for an understanding heart to judge God's people, rather than for long life or riches, pleased the LORD [[2 Chronicles 1:11]]. His story teaches that true wisdom is a gift from God, intended for righteous governance and discernment.
* **The Dangers of a Divided Heart:** Despite being beloved by God and given immense wisdom, Solomon's love for many strange women led him into idolatry ([[1 Kings 11:1]], [[Nehemiah 13:26]]). His life serves as a solemn warning that even the wisest can fall when their heart is not wholly devoted to the LORD [[1 Kings 11:4]].
* **The Fulfillment of God's Promise:** Solomon's building of the Temple fulfilled God's promise to David and established a central sanctuary for Israel's worship, where God's glory filled the house [[2 Chronicles 7:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8010}}` represents more than just a historical king. The name Solomon, meaning "peaceful," is tied to a promise of peace for Israel. His life story is a rich and cautionary tale, encompassing the heights of God-given wisdom and the depths of human frailty. He is remembered as the great builder of God's Temple, yet his legacy is permanently marked by the consequences of a heart that did not remain perfect with the LORD his God.
TRV