שלום וברכה
shalom u-verakha
The English phrase "peace and blessings" is translated into Hebrew as שלום וברכה (shalom u-verakha).
This phrase is a greeting used to wish someone peace and divine favor. Note that the word shalom can also be used as a departure greeting meaning "goodbye."
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the noun shalom (peace) and the noun verakha (blessing), joined by the conjunction ve- (and).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
שלום וברכה is more formal and traditional than a simple shalom. It is often used in religious or highly respectful contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
While the word verakha (blessing) is in the singular form, in this specific idiomatic greeting, it is understood to encompass the concept of blessings in general.
How do you pronounce it?
shalom u-verakha
Did you know?
- The root of שלום is also found in the Hebrew word for 'payment' or 'reimbursement', reflecting the idea that peace occurs when all debts are settled.
- In traditional settings, you might not reply to שלום וברכה with the same phrase, but instead say שלום עליכם, which means 'peace be upon you'.
- The word שלום shares the same ancient root as the Arabic word سلام (salām), which is also widely recognized by English speakers in the name 'Salam'.
Examples in context
- שלום וברכה לכל הנמצאים כאן.shalom u'vracha le'khol ha'nimtsa'im kan.Peace and blessings to everyone here.
Example conversation
Maya greets Noam at the door of his home.
- נועם Noamשלום וברכה, מאיה! ברוכה הבאה.Shalom u-vracha, Maya! Brucha haba'a.Peace and blessings, Maya! Welcome.
- מאיה Mayaתודה רבה, נועם. נעים מאוד לראות אותך.Toda raba, Noam. Na'im me'od lir'ot otcha.Thank you very much, Noam. It's very nice to see you.
- נועם Noamגם אני שמח לראות אותך. בואי פנימה.Gam ani same'ach lir'ot otach. Bo'i pnima.I am also happy to see you. Come inside.
- מאיה Mayaתודה, אני באה.Toda, ani ba'a.Thanks, I'm coming.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries שלום, CC BY-SA 4.0.
