### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shâlêm**, represented by `{{H8004}}`, is a name meaning **peaceful**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** and is identified as an early name for Jerusalem. This place is associated with divine presence, priesthood, and sanctuary in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H8004}}` is presented in distinct historical and theological contexts. It is first introduced as the city of Melchizedek, a unique figure who is both **king** of **Salem** and **priest** of the most high God [[Genesis 14:18]]. Later, the psalmist explicitly connects this location with God's own presence, stating that in **Salem** is His **tabernacle** and His **dwelling place** in Zion [[Psalms 76:2]]. It also appears as a geographical destination for Jacob, who came to **Shalem**, a **city** of Shechem in the land of Canaan, and pitched his tent there after his journey from Padanaram [[Genesis 33:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the significance of Shalem:
* `{{H4442}}` **Malkîy-Tsedeq** (king of right; Melchizedek): This individual is the king of **Salem** `{{H8004}}`. His dual role as king and priest in [[Genesis 14:18]] establishes the city's unique spiritual and royal status.
* `{{H6726}}` **Tsîyôwn** (Zion): The term is used in parallel with **Salem** `{{H8004}}`, directly identifying Salem as the location of God's dwelling place, Zion [[Psalms 76:2]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (a priest): This word describes the sacred function of Melchizedek, the king of **Salem** `{{H8004}}`, linking the city to the worship of the most high God [[Genesis 14:18]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city): This term defines **Shalem** `{{H8004}}` as a physical, guarded location where Jacob arrived in the land of Canaan [[Genesis 33:18]].
* `{{H4585}}` **mᵉʻôwnâh** (an abode... dwelling place): This word is used to describe God's presence in **Salem** `{{H8004}}`, identifying it as His chosen habitation [[Psalms 76:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8004}}` is significant despite its few appearances.
* **Royal Priesthood:** **Salem** is the seat of **Melchizedek** `{{H4442}}`, a king who is also a priest of the "most high God" `{{H5945}}` `{{H410}}`. This foreshadows a place where royal authority and holy worship are unified [[Genesis 14:18]].
* **Divine Habitation:** The identification of **Salem** with **Zion** `{{H6726}}` establishes it as the very place where God chose to set His **tabernacle** `{{H5520}}` and **dwelling place** `{{H4585}}`. It is not merely a human city but a site of divine presence [[Psalms 76:2]].
* **Place of Refuge and Provision:** The name itself means peaceful. This is reflected when its king brings forth **bread** `{{H3899}}` and **wine** `{{H3196}}` [[Genesis 14:18]] and when Jacob finds a place to rest and pitch his tent there after a long journey [[Genesis 33:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8004}}` is more than a historical place name. It is a location characterized by its peaceful nature, its connection to a unique royal priesthood, and its ultimate identity as Zion, the chosen dwelling place of God. Its appearances in scripture anchor it as a foundational site for understanding God's relationship with His people and the city He would call His own.
TRV