Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionJehovah-Shalom, meaning "The LORD is Peace," is a significant name of God revealed in the Old Testament. This name is associated with an altar built by Gideon, a judge of Israel, during a time of great distress and oppression by the Midianites. The account is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 6:11-24. This entry explores the context, significance, and theological implications of Jehovah-Shalom as revealed through Gideon's encounter with the Angel of the LORD. Historical Context The period of the Judges was marked by a cyclical pattern of Israel's disobedience, oppression by foreign powers, cries for deliverance, and subsequent deliverance by judges raised by God. During Gideon's time, the Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites, who, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, would invade and ravage the land, leaving Israel impoverished and in fear (Judges 6:1-6). Gideon's Encounter with the Angel of the LORD Gideon, the son of Joash, was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites when the Angel of the LORD appeared to him. The Angel greeted him with the words, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior" (Judges 6:12). Gideon questioned the presence of the LORD, citing the current suffering of Israel and the apparent absence of divine intervention (Judges 6:13). The Angel of the LORD commissioned Gideon to deliver Israel from the Midianites, assuring him of divine presence and strength. Despite his initial hesitance and feelings of inadequacy, Gideon was given a sign through the miraculous consumption of his offering by fire (Judges 6:14-21). The Altar Named Jehovah-Shalom After realizing he had seen the Angel of the LORD face to face, Gideon feared for his life. However, the LORD reassured him, saying, "Peace be with you. Do not be afraid, for you will not die" (Judges 6:23). In response to this divine assurance, Gideon built an altar to the LORD and named it Jehovah-Shalom, which means "The LORD is Peace" (Judges 6:24). Theological Significance The name Jehovah-Shalom encapsulates the peace that comes from God's presence and assurance, even amidst turmoil and fear. It signifies the peace that God imparts to His people, transcending their circumstances. Gideon's experience highlights the transformative power of divine peace, enabling him to rise from fear and doubt to become a deliverer of Israel. The altar named Jehovah-Shalom serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the peace He provides. It is a reminder that true peace is found not in the absence of conflict but in the presence of God. This peace is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Legacy of Jehovah-Shalom The altar built by Gideon remained in Ophrah of the Abiezrites as a lasting memorial of God's peace and deliverance (Judges 6:24). It stands as a symbol of hope and assurance for believers, encouraging them to trust in God's presence and provision, regardless of their circumstances. The revelation of Jehovah-Shalom continues to inspire faith and confidence in God's unchanging nature and His promise of peace to His people. Nave's Topical Index Judges 6:24Then Gideon built an altar there to the LORD, and called it Jehovahshalom: to this day it is yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites. Nave's Topical Index Library Gideon's Altar The Service Common to the Holy Angels and Other Bodiless Ones. Jehovah Resources What does it mean that God is Jehovah-Jireh? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of Jehovah-Nissi? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of the Hebrew word shalom? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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