The meaning of this term has been the subject of varied interpretations. Language searches for different forms in which to express different nuances. Semantically, however, it corresponds to shalom and shelamim.
Troubles afflict the soul and once the soul is delivered from trouble and suffering, it is at peace.
The peace offering reflects an abundance of joy, of gratitude to God for one s well-being or for deliverance from trouble. By thanking God for his goodness, he brings on himself Divine grace that ensures his welfare. This may reflect the contentment of the worshipper who recognizes that this is the result of his cleaving to God, and acknowledges this through the peace-offering. Or it may betoken a search for perfection and deliverance of one suffering from despair and longing for Divine succour to keep him intact. This he expresses through the shelamim, whereby he declares that his own peace and well-being are inextricably bound up with cleaving to God.