of Hebrew origin (יְרוּשָׁלַ͏ִם); Hierusalem (i.e. Jerushalem), the capitol of Palestine:--Jerusalem. Compare Ἱεροσόλυμα.
Transliteration:Hierousalḗm
Pronunciation:hee-er-oo-sal-ame'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G2419 (Hierousalḗm) directly transliterates the Hebrew H3389 (Yerushaláyim), referring to the ancient city that became the capital of Judah and the spiritual center for the Jewish people. While its precise etymology is debated, a widely accepted interpretation suggests "foundation of peace" (from יָרָה *yarah*, "to found," and שָׁלֵם *shalem*, "peace"). This etymological possibility imbues the name with profound theological resonance, even if historically complex.
Beyond its literal geographical designation as the "capital of Palestine" (as per the base definition), "Jerusalem" carries immense symbolic weight in Scripture. Its semantic range extends to represent:
* The chosen dwelling place of God and the site of His Temple.
* The "City of the Great King" ([[Psalm 48:2]], [[Matthew 5:35]]).
* The epicenter of divine revelation and redemptive history.
* An archetype for the heavenly city, the New Jerusalem.
* A place of both human sin and divine grace.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While G2419 is a Greek New Testament term, its significance is deeply rooted in the Old Testament through its Hebrew counterpart. The city first appears as "Salem" ([[Genesis 14:18]]) under Melchizedek and later as "Jebus" ([[Judges 19:10]]) before King David conquered it, establishing it as his capital and the "City of David" ([[2 Samuel 5:7]]).
In the New Testament, G2419 (Hierousalḗm) and G2414 (Hierosólyma) are both used to refer to Jerusalem. While often interchangeable, some scholars suggest G2419 may emphasize the city's religious or theological aspect, whereas G2414 might refer more to its geographical or political entity, though this distinction is not absolute and context is paramount.
* **Gospel Narratives:** Jerusalem is central to the life and ministry of Jesus. It is where He was presented as an infant ([[Luke 2:22]]), taught in the Temple ([[Luke 2:46]], [[John 7:14]]), and ultimately accomplished His atoning work through His suffering, death, and resurrection ([[Matthew 20:18]], [[Luke 24:18]]). His final journey is depicted as a determined ascent to Jerusalem ([[Luke 9:51]]).
* **Acts of the Apostles:** Jerusalem serves as the birthplace of the early Christian church. The Holy Spirit descends there at Pentecost ([[Acts 1:4]], [[Acts 2:1]]), leading to the apostles' powerful proclamation of the Gospel ([[Acts 2:14]]). It is the hub from which the church expands, fulfilling the mandate to spread the message "to the ends of the earth" ([[Acts 1:8]]). The first major council of the church also convenes in Jerusalem ([[Acts 15:2]]).
* **Pauline Epistles:** Paul references Jerusalem in connection with his apostolic authority and ministry, including the collection for the saints ([[Romans 15:25]], [[Galatians 1:17-18]]). He also uses "Jerusalem" allegorically to contrast the present earthly covenant with the heavenly freedom ([[Galatians 4:25-26]]).
* **Revelation:** The concept of Jerusalem reaches its eschatological culmination in the vision of the "New Jerusalem" ([[Revelation 3:12]], [[Revelation 21:2]]). This heavenly city symbolizes the consummation of God's redemptive plan, where God's tabernacle is finally with humanity, and all sorrow and death are abolished ([[Revelation 21:3-4]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
* **G2414 (Hierosólyma):** The alternative Greek form for Jerusalem, used alongside G2419 in the New Testament.
* **H3389 (Yerushaláyim):** The Hebrew origin of the name, providing essential historical and prophetic context.
* **H7965 (Shalom):** "Peace, completeness, welfare." This word is a significant component of the proposed etymology of Jerusalem ("foundation of peace"), underscoring its ultimate destiny.
* **Zion (H6726 / G4746):** Often used synonymously with Jerusalem, particularly in poetic and prophetic literature, emphasizing its spiritual identity as God's holy mountain and chosen dwelling place.
* **Temple (G2411 / G3485):** The central sanctuary located in Jerusalem, intrinsically linked to the city's identity as the center of worship and God's presence.
* **City of David:** A specific designation for Jerusalem, highlighting its historical connection to King David and the Davidic covenant, which promised an eternal kingdom.
* **New Jerusalem:** The ultimate eschatological vision, representing the perfected, heavenly city where God dwells eternally with His redeemed people, fulfilling all promises of peace and glory.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Jerusalem, as encapsulated by G2419, is profound and multifaceted:
* **The Locus of Divine Presence:** From the establishment of the Temple, Jerusalem was understood as the earthly dwelling place of Yahweh, the focal point of Israelite worship, and the destination for pilgrimages.
* **The City of Redemption:** For Christians, Jerusalem holds paramount significance as the place where Jesus Christ, the Messiah, accomplished His saving work. His crucifixion, burial, and resurrection in or near Jerusalem are the central events of salvation history, transforming the city into the epicenter of divine grace.
* **The Cradle of the Church:** The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost in Jerusalem marks the birth of the Christian church, making it the initial launchpad for the global proclamation of the Gospel to all nations.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment and Eschatological Hope:** Old Testament prophecies concerning Jerusalem's future glory and restoration find their ultimate, spiritual fulfillment in the New Jerusalem of Revelation. This heavenly city symbolizes the consummation of God's redemptive plan, the eternal dwelling of God with humanity, and the eradication of sin, sorrow, and death ([[Revelation 21:3-4]]). It represents the ultimate state of peace and wholeness, echoing its potential "foundation of peace" etymology.
* **A Place of Conflict and Promise:** Throughout its history, Jerusalem has been a site of immense conflict and suffering. Yet, it remains a city of enduring promise, symbolizing God's faithfulness to His covenants and His ultimate triumph over all evil, culminating in an eternal kingdom of peace.
### Summary
The Greek word G2419 (Hierousalḗm), derived from the Hebrew H3389 (Yerushaláyim), denotes the ancient and holy city of Jerusalem. Far more than a geographical location, Jerusalem stands as a profound theological symbol throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, it is God's chosen city, the seat of the Davidic monarchy, and the site of the Temple, signifying God's covenantal presence among His people. In the New Testament, Jerusalem is central to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, making it the pivotal point of salvation history. It is also the birthplace of the early church, from which the Gospel began its global expansion. The concept of Jerusalem culminates in the "New Jerusalem" ([[Revelation 21:2]]), an eschatological vision of the heavenly city that symbolizes the perfected reign of God and the eternal dwelling of the redeemed with Him. Thus, G2419 encapsulates a rich tapestry of divine presence, redemptive history, and ultimate hope, embodying both earthly realities and heavenly aspirations.
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