The Hebrew noun shillem refers to a requital or recompense — the idea that a deed or action brings back a return, either reward or retribution. It is related to the verb shalam, to repay or make whole.
Shillem expresses the biblical principle that actions have consequences — that God is a God of justice who ensures what has been done will be repaid. Deuteronomy 32:35 declares, 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay.' This word encompasses both positive recompense (God rewarding faithfulness) and retributive judgment. The New Testament picks up this theme in Romans 12:19 and Hebrews 10:30 — vengeance belongs to God, not to humans. Trusting God's shillem frees believers from the destructive cycle of personal vengeance.