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baalshem

noun, often capitalized
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baal·​shem
variants: or less commonly balshem \ bälˈshām \

Definition of baalshem

: one believed among Jews (such as earlier Polish Jews) to work wonders by the use of the name of God

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First Known Use of baalshem

1897, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for baalshem

Hebrew baʽal shēm one who possesses or works through the (divine) name

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The first known use of baalshem was in 1897

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Cite this Entry

“Baalshem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/baalshem. Accessed 3 Jul. 2020.

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