This psalm starts with the words
sha’alu sh’lom Yerushalayim, ‘
Pray for the well-being of
Yerushalayim.’
Shalom (שלום), translated here as ‘well-being,’ is the first Hebrew word many people learn. It actually has three meanings: ‘hello,’ ‘goodbye’ and ‘peace.’ It is the word with which friends greet one another, but
shalom is more than a greeting; it is also a blessing. Peace is the most important gift we can ask from Hashem (God), on an individual level, as families, and between nations. It is therefore of utmost significance that the world’s holiest city,
Yerushalayim (ירושלים), has the word shalom at its core, because it is meant to be the source of all peace on earth. King
David exhorts “Pray for the well-being of
Yerushalayim,” for when
Yerushalayim is confronted with conflict, the whole world suffers. Conversely, though, when
Yerushalayim is at peace, the entire world enjoys serenity. Order your copy of
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