SHOMER Meaning and
Definition
-
Shomer is a Hebrew word that carries various meanings and interpretations depending on the context in which it is used. At its core, shomer refers to a "guardian" or a "watchman." In Jewish religious practice, a shomer is someone who maintains a watchful and protective presence over something or someone deemed sacred or entrusted to their care.
The term shomer is often used in the context of burial rituals in Judaism. A shomer may be appointed to watch over a deceased body from the moment of death until the burial takes place, ensuring respect and dignity for the deceased. In this role, the shomer fulfills the mitzvah (commandment) of the Chevra Kadisha, a sacred society responsible for the rituals surrounding purification and burial.
Beyond its religious connotations, shomer can also describe an individual who takes on the responsibility of safeguarding and protecting various aspects of Jewish heritage and tradition. This may involve caring for Torah scrolls, synagogues, or other sacred objects, as well as preserving and promoting Jewish cultural practices and customs for future generations.
In a broader sense, shomer can also refer to someone who assumes the role of a protector or guardian in a non-religious context. This could include individuals who watch over a particular community, keeping it safe from harm or threats, or those who take on the responsibility of safeguarding a specific cause or ideology.
Overall, shomer embodies the idea of being a vigilant guardian, protector, or caretaker, ensuring the safety, integrity, and preservation of that which is entrusted to one's care.
Common Misspellings for SHOMER
Etymology of SHOMER
The word "Shomer" comes from Hebrew, a Semitic language that is an ancient member of the Canaanite group. In Hebrew, "Shomer" (שׁוֹמֵר) is a noun derived from the verb "Shamar" (שָׁמַר), which means "to guard", "to watch", or "to keep".
The term "Shomer" is used in a religious context, particularly within Judaism. It refers to a guardian or protector, someone who takes care of and watches over something or someone. In Jewish religious practices, a "Shomer" can be a person who is entrusted with the vigilance over a dead body until it is buried, as part of the Jewish mourning and burial customs known as "Shemira".
