### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **Yᵉrûwshâlêm**, represented by `{{H3390}}`, is the name for **Jerusalem**. It appears 26 times across 25 unique verses. The term signifies the city's central role as the heart of worship, governance, and identity for the people of Israel, particularly in the narratives surrounding the return from exile.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3390}}` is used in several key contexts. It is depicted as the proper place for the worship of God, with the "house of God" being located there [[Ezra 5:2]]. Decrees from Persian kings like Cyrus and Darius specifically concern the rebuilding of the temple in **Jerusalem** and the restoration of its services [[Ezra 6:3]]. The city's importance is so profound that even in exile, Daniel prayed daily while facing toward **Jerusalem** [[Daniel 6:10]]. It is also described as a center of political power, a city from which mighty kings had previously ruled and collected tribute [[Ezra 4:20]]. The sacred vessels taken from the temple in **Jerusalem** are central to the story of Belshazzar's feast and their eventual return is a key element of the restoration ([[Daniel 5:2]], [[Ezra 6:5]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the significance of Jerusalem:
* `{{H1005}}` **bayith** (house): This word is frequently used to refer to the **house** of God, which is explicitly located "at **Jerusalem**" [[Ezra 6:12]]. This connection establishes the city as the primary site of the temple and the center of Israel's religious life.
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): The effort to **build** Jerusalem and its temple is a dominant theme. The Jews returned to **build** the city [[Ezra 4:12]], and the prophets of God helped them to **build** the house of God at **Jerusalem** [[Ezra 5:2]], highlighting the physical and spiritual restoration of the city.
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king): Foreign **kings** issue decrees concerning **Jerusalem** [[Ezra 6:3]], demonstrating its importance on an international scale. The city is also remembered as a place where mighty **kings** once ruled [[Ezra 4:20]], linking it to Israel's sovereign history.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3390}}` is significant, establishing the city as God's chosen center on earth.
* **Divine Habitation:** The scriptures state that God's "habitation is in **Jerusalem**" [[Ezra 7:15]] and that He has "caused his name to **dwell** there" [[Ezra 6:12]]. This marks the city as a unique place of divine presence.
* **Focus of Worship:** Even when physically absent, the faithful direct their devotion toward the city. Daniel’s commitment to **pray** toward **Jerusalem** illustrates that it is the geographical and spiritual focal point for covenant relationship with God [[Daniel 6:10]].
* **Center of Restoration:** The rebuilding of the house of God in **Jerusalem** is a primary concern, with resources and offerings being directed there from Babylon [[Ezra 7:16]]. This effort, supported by gentile rulers, underscores God's sovereignty in restoring His people and their worship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3390}}` is far more than a name for a city. In the Aramaic portions of Scripture, **Yᵉrûwshâlêm** represents the irreplaceable center of divine worship, the symbol of national restoration after exile, and the enduring focus of the Jewish people's identity and devotion. It is the place where God chose for His name to dwell and where the hopes of a scattered people were centered.
TRV