OK, I admit that I’m an oddball. I love grammar and the subtle differences and nuances a tiny word, or as in Hebrew one simple letter, can achieve or signify.
I’ve been bothered by the word/term “The Peace,” “השלום” “HaShalom“ for as many years as I’ve heard it. In terms of grammar, the exact, picayune meaning to my mind, is that it is somehow different from plain ordinary generic “Peace,” “שלום” “Shalom.” Am I incorrect about this?
In all honesty, whether Right, Left or Center, nobody opposes true “Peace,” “שלום” “Shalom.“ Our problem is that “the peace” we’re being offered is no more genuine than “Fat Free Half and Half.”
Peace, which shouldn’t need a modifier, adjective or a definite article, because there should be no doubt as to what it refers to.
Peace is when one is not in danger from one’s enemies, because there are no enemies.
- A “ceasefire” is not peace.
- Signing a piece of paper at a fancy ceremony does not produce peace.
- A “treaty” with those who educate their children to murder you cannot be considered a Peace Treaty.