Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "Peace to this house" is a significant biblical salutation, deeply rooted in the Hebrew concept of "Shalom." This greeting is more than a mere wish for the absence of conflict; it embodies a profound desire for wholeness, completeness, and well-being. The Hebrew word "Shalom" encompasses peace, harmony, prosperity, and welfare, reflecting a holistic sense of divine blessing.Biblical Context and Usage The salutation "Peace to this house" is notably found in the New Testament, specifically in the instructions Jesus gives to His disciples. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus sends out the seventy-two disciples, instructing them on how to conduct themselves as they spread the message of the Kingdom of God. He tells them, "Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house’" (Luke 10:5). This directive underscores the importance of peace as a foundational element of the disciples' mission. The greeting serves as both a blessing and a test of receptivity. Jesus continues, "If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you" (Luke 10:6). This indicates that the peace offered is not merely a formality but a tangible spiritual gift that can be accepted or rejected. The presence of a "man of peace" suggests an openness to the message of the Gospel and the peace that accompanies it. Theological Significance In the broader biblical narrative, peace is a central theme, reflecting God's desire for harmony between Himself and humanity, as well as among individuals. The Old Testament frequently associates peace with God's covenantal promises, as seen in the Aaronic blessing: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace" (Numbers 6:24-26). In the New Testament, Jesus is identified as the "Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6), and His ministry is characterized by the reconciliation of humanity with God. The apostle Paul further emphasizes this in his epistles, often beginning with the greeting "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" (e.g., Romans 1:7). This reflects the early Christian understanding that peace is a divine gift, made possible through the redemptive work of Christ. Practical Application For Christians today, the salutation "Peace to this house" serves as a reminder of their calling to be ambassadors of Christ's peace. It encourages believers to extend peace in their interactions, fostering environments where the Gospel can take root. This greeting can be a powerful expression of faith, inviting the presence of God into homes and communities. In practice, offering peace to a household is an act of faith, trusting that God will work through the gesture to bring about His purposes. It challenges believers to live out the peace they proclaim, embodying the love and reconciliation that are central to the Christian message. Conclusion "Peace to this house" is a profound biblical salutation that encapsulates the essence of the Gospel's transformative power. Rooted in the rich Hebrew concept of "Shalom," it calls believers to be conduits of God's peace, extending His blessings to all they encounter. As such, it remains a timeless and meaningful expression of Christian faith and hope. Nave's Topical Index Luke 10:5And into whatever house you enter, first say, Peace be to this house. Nave's Topical Index Library Peace The Death and the Raising of Lazarus - the Question of Miracles ... The Service Common to the Holy Angels and Other Bodiless Ones. Footnotes The Doctrine of God The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What is the Hail Mary that Catholics say so often? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of 2 John - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from what the Bible says about Paul and Timothy? | GotQuestions.org Salutations: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Salutations were Given by all Passers-By Salutations were Given by Brethren to Each Other Salutations were Given by Inferiors to Their Superiors Salutations were Given by Superiors to Inferiors Salutations were Given: On Entering a House Salutations: "Are You Well, My Brother?" Salutations: "May God be Gracious to You" Salutations: "Peace (Hebrew: Shalom) to This House" Salutations: "Peace to You" (Hebrew: Shalomleka) Salutations: "Peace" (Hebrew: Shalom) Salutations: Denied to Persons of Bad Character Salutations: Expressions Used as all Hail Salutations: Expressions Used as Art Thou in Health? Salutations: Expressions Used as Blessed be Thou of the Lord Salutations: Expressions Used as God be Gracious to Thee Salutations: Expressions Used as Hail Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace be to This House Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace be With Thee Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace to Thee, and Peace to Thine House, and Peace to All Salutations: Expressions Used as The Blessing of the Lord be Upon You, we Bless You in The Salutations: Expressions Used as The Lord be With You Salutations: Expressions Used as The Lord Bless Thee Salutations: from a Master to his Servants, "May the Lord be With You" Salutations: Given to Christ in Derision Salutations: Often Accompanied by Bowing Frequently to the Ground Salutations: Often Accompanied by Embracing and Kissing the Feet Salutations: Often Accompanied by Falling on the Neck and Kissing Salutations: Often Accompanied by Falling Prostrate on the Ground Salutations: Often Accompanied by Kissing the Dust Salutations: Often Accompanied by Laying Hold of the Bear With the Right Hand Salutations: Often Accompanied by Touching the Hem of the Garment Salutations: Often Sent by Letter Salutations: Often Sent Through Messengers Salutations: Persons in Haste Excused from Giving or Receiving Salutations: Servants to Their Masters, "May the Lord Bless You" Salutations: The Jews Condemned for Giving, Only to Their Countrymen Salutations: The Pharisees Condemned for Seeking, in Public Related Terms |
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