Biblical Hebrew Forum

[Peter Kirk <peterkirk AT qaya.org>]

On 20/12/2004 16:53, Uri Hurwitz wrote:

> */Peter Kirk <peterkirk AT qaya.org>/* wrote:
> > ...
> >
>
> "...I can find a number of examples of semantic shift between cognates
> within the Semitic triliteral system. A simple one is "shalom" = "peace"
> (Hebrew) and "salaam" = "greetings" (Arabic). Semantically linked, of
> course, but the Arabic meaning is significantly weakened"....
>  
>    Two comments:
>  
>   A. In Arabic too the root can clearly mean peace;( look up under 
> "salaam", but also "silm");


Which proves my point: even within a language with triliteral roots 
there can be significant semantic shift.

>  
>  B. In both languages the original meaning was probably 
> "completeleness, fullness"; (again you'll find examples in both 
> languages).
>  

Again this proves my point: the etymological or "original" meaning is 
not a good guide to current meaning.

--
Peter Kirk
peter AT qaya.org (personal)
peterkirk AT qaya.org (work)
http://www.qaya.org/