How should I respond to shalom?

Found throughout the Old Testament and still used today in Jewish and Christian circles, “shalom” is a word rich with history, theology, and cultural significance. Whether you’ve heard it spoken in a place of worship, received it in a letter, or encountered it during travel in Israel, you may have wondered: “How do I respond to shalom?”

The Meaning of Shalom

At its root, “shalom” means peace, but its definition extends far beyond the absence of conflict. In biblical Hebrew, shalom encompasses wholeness, completeness, well-being, prosperity, harmony, and even health. When someone wishes you “shalom,” they are blessing you with a prayer for total well-being—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and relationally.

In the Bible, shalom is often used as both a greeting and a farewell, much like “hello” and “goodbye” in English. But unlike a casual “hi” or “bye,” shalom carries a sense of invoking God’s blessing. In Numbers 6:24-26, the famous priestly blessing concludes with “The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace [shalom].” This shows that shalom is something only God can ultimately provide, and it is a gift to be cherished and shared.

Responding to Shalom in Conversation

If someone greets you with “shalom,” the most common and culturally appropriate response is to simply return the greeting: “Shalom.” This reciprocal blessing affirms the other person’s desire for your well-being and echoes it back to them. In modern Hebrew, this is the standard reply, much like responding “peace be with you” or “hello” in English.

Sometimes, the greeting is extended to “shalom aleichem,” which means “peace be upon you.” The traditional response is “aleichem shalom”—“upon you be peace.” This call-and-response echoes through Jewish prayers, gatherings, and even casual exchanges. By responding in kind, you participate in a centuries-old tradition of blessing and goodwill.

Embracing the Spirit of Shalom

Responding to shalom is not just about words—it’s about entering into the spirit of the greeting. When someone wishes you shalom, they are not only expressing a hope for your peace but inviting you to share in a relationship marked by respect, kindness, and harmony. In turn, your response can be an opportunity to extend that peace to others, fostering an atmosphere of mutual blessing.

For Christians, Jesus’ use of the word “peace” (eirene in Greek, equivalent to Hebrew shalom) is significant. In John 20:19, after His resurrection, Jesus greets His disciples with “Peace be with you.” This greeting is more than a formality; it is an impartation of God’s presence and assurance. When you respond to shalom, you are also participating in this tradition of Christ-centered peace.

Practical Ways to Respond to Shalom

1. Return the Blessing: The simplest and most respectful reply is to say “Shalom” or “Shalom aleichem.” This shows that you recognize and appreciate the blessing.
2. Offer Peace in Your Own Words: Depending on your tradition, you might reply, “Peace be with you,” “And also with you,” or “God’s peace to you.”
3. Reflect Peace in Your Actions: Beyond words, embodying shalom means acting in ways that promote peace, understanding, and reconciliation. When you respond to shalom, consider how you can live out that blessing—being a peacemaker in your home, community, or workplace.
4. Acknowledge the Deeper Meaning: Especially in faith-based settings, you might respond with gratitude, saying, “Thank you for your blessing of peace,” or “May God give us both His shalom.”

Shalom as a Way of Life

Responding to shalom is more than a polite exchange—it is an invitation to embrace a lifestyle of peace. The Bible encourages believers to seek and pursue shalom (Psalm 34:14), to be at peace with all people as far as it depends on them (Romans 12:18), and to let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts (Colossians 3:15). When you respond to shalom, you are affirming your commitment to be a person of peace, both in word and deed.

Shalom also challenges us to look beyond ourselves and work for the peace and well-being of others. Whether that means reconciling with someone, advocating for justice, or simply offering a listening ear, living in shalom is a continual process of giving and receiving God’s peace.