Abshalom is spelled with six letters and is pronounced as /æbʃəˈlɔm/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/ as in "cat" followed by the consonant blend /bʃ/ which represents the Hebrew letter "shin." The second syllable has the vowel sound /ə/ as in "about" followed by the consonant sound /l/. The final syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɔ/ as in "awful" and the consonant sound /m/.
Abshalom refers to a Hebrew name that holds significant cultural and biblical importance. Derived from the Hebrew word "avshalom," it translates to "father of peace" or "my father is peace." In the Bible, Abshalom is primarily known as the third son of King David, the renowned king of Israel.
Abshalom's story is depicted in the Old Testament of the Bible, particularly in the book of Samuel. He is described as a strikingly handsome, charismatic, and ambitious prince with a flamboyant appearance. Despite his evident appeal, Abshalom possessed a profoundly complex character. His actions often reflected his impulsive nature, leading to both grand triumphs and tragic consequences.
Primarily known for his rebellion against his father King David, Abshalom aimed to seize the throne for himself. This undertaking resulted in a bitter conflict with David, causing grief and division within the family and kingdom. Ultimately, the rebellion was crushed, and Abshalom paid a heavy price, tragically losing his life.
Beyond its biblical context, Abshalom can also be interpreted in a metaphorical sense. The name serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between seeking peace and striving for personal ambition. It carries the notion that even those who possess great charisma and promise can be led astray, emphasizing the importance of humility, empathy, and the pursuit of genuine peace in personal relationships and leadership roles.
The name "Abshalom" has its origins in Hebrew. It is composed of two elements: "ab" meaning "father" and "shalom" meaning "peace". Thus, the name Abshalom can be understood to mean "father of peace" or "my father is peace" in Hebrew.