Meshullam is a Hebrew biblical masculine name meaning "friend, ally", derived from the Hebrew root שָׁלַם (shalam), which conveys concepts of completeness and peace. This name appears multiple times in the Old Testament, borne by various individuals known for their loyalty and service. Etymology The name Meshullam comes from the shalam root, which also underlies the name Solomon (derived from the related Hebrew name Shelomo, meaning "peace"). While Meshullam directly means "friend" or "ally," it shares a core semantic field with other names from the same root, such as those under Old Testament contexts and across cultures — including Sulejman in Bosnian, Sulaiman in Malay, Sulayman in Quranic Arabic, Slimane in Maghrebi Arabic, Süleyman in Turkish, and Salomo in Biblical German. All ultimately trace back to the same Semitic concept of wholeness and peace. Biblical Bearers According to the Hebrew Bible, at least eleven characters bear the name Meshullam. Among them: A chief Gadite in Bashan during Jotham's reign (1 Chronicles 5:13). Grandfather of Shaphan the scribe in Josiah's reign (2 Kings 22:3). A priest and father of Hilkiah (1 Chronicles 9:11; Nehemiah 11:11), called Shallum in 1 Chronicles 6:12. A Levite of the Kohathite family involved in temple repairs under Josiah (2 Chronicles 34:12). A son of Elpaal (1 Chronicles 8:17). One of two sons of Zerubbabel, the other being Hananiah (1 Chronicles 3:19). A priest, head of the House of Ezra (Nehemiah 12:13). A chief priest (Nehemiah 12:16). A leading Levite in Ezra's time (Ezra 8:16). A priest (1 Chronicles 9:12). One of the principal men listed in other genealogical records. These individuals span the era from the united monarchy to the post-exilic period, reflecting the name's enduring usage for centuries. Usage Meshullam is primarily used in English Bible and Hebrew Bible contexts. Today, it is rarely given as a modern first name but holds lasting interest among scholars of biblical onomastics and families seeking traditional Hebrew names. Its meaning "friend" or "ally" conveys loyalty and peace, making it spiritually significant. Key Facts Meaning: "friend, ally" (Hebrew) Origin: Hebrew, from root shalam ("to be complete, to be at peace") Type: Biblical masculine name Usage: English Bible, Hebrew Bible Related names: Solomon, Suleiman (Arabic), Süleyman (Turkish), Shalom (peace)