Etymology and Names: The name "Jerusalem" is believed to derive from the ancient Semitic root "Y-R-S," meaning "foundation" or "city," combined with "Shalem," a deity associated with peace. Thus, Jerusalem is often interpreted as "City of Peace." Throughout the Bible, Jerusalem is referred to by various names, including Zion, the City of David, and Salem.

Geographical Location: Jerusalem is situated in the Judean hills, approximately 2,500 feet above sea level. Its strategic location made it a significant city in ancient times, serving as a crossroads for trade and military routes. The city is surrounded by valleys, including the Kidron Valley to the east and the Hinnom Valley to the south.

Biblical Significance: Jerusalem holds a central place in biblical history and theology. It is first mentioned in Genesis 14:18 as Salem, where Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought out bread and wine to bless Abram. The city later became the political and spiritual center of Israel under King David, who captured it from the Jebusites and established it as the capital (2 Samuel 5:6-9).

The Temple: One of the most significant aspects of Jerusalem is the Temple, which Solomon built as a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant (1 Kings 6). The Temple became the focal point of Jewish worship and the site of major religious festivals. It was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC, rebuilt under Zerubbabel, and later expanded by Herod the Great.

Prophetic and Messianic Role: Jerusalem is frequently mentioned in the prophetic books as the city where God will establish His kingdom. Isaiah 2:3 proclaims, "Many peoples will come and say, 'Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us His ways, so that we may walk in His paths.' For the law will go forth from Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem." The city is also central to messianic prophecies, as seen in Zechariah 9:9, which foretells the coming of a king riding on a donkey, fulfilled in the New Testament by Jesus' triumphal entry (Matthew 21:5).

New Testament and Early Church: In the New Testament, Jerusalem is the setting for many pivotal events in the life of Jesus, including His crucifixion and resurrection. The early church was established in Jerusalem, where the apostles received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2). The city served as the center of the early Christian community and the site of the first church council (Acts 15).

Symbolic and Eschatological Role: Jerusalem holds a symbolic role as the heavenly city, the New Jerusalem, described in Revelation 21:2 as "coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." This imagery reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Cultural and Historical Impact: Throughout history, Jerusalem has been a focal point of religious devotion, conflict, and pilgrimage. It remains a city of profound significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, each of whom regard it as a holy city with deep spiritual and historical roots.