The title "King of Jerusalem" appears in the Bible primarily in the context of the ancient city of Jerusalem, which holds significant historical and theological importance. Jerusalem, known as the "City of David," is central to biblical narratives and is often associated with God's covenant with Israel.

Melchizedek, King of Salem

The earliest mention of a king associated with Jerusalem is Melchizedek, who is described as the "king of Salem" in Genesis 14:18. Salem is widely understood to be an ancient name for Jerusalem. Melchizedek is a mysterious figure who is both a king and a priest, and he blesses Abram (later Abraham) after Abram's victory over the kings. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High" (Genesis 14:18). Melchizedek's dual role as king and priest prefigures the messianic role of Jesus Christ, as elaborated in the New Testament book of Hebrews.

Adoni-Zedek, King of Jerusalem

Another significant mention is Adoni-Zedek, who was the king of Jerusalem during the time of Joshua. In Joshua 10:1-3, Adoni-Zedek forms an alliance with other Amorite kings to attack Gibeon because it had made peace with Israel. The Berean Standard Bible records: "Now Adoni-Zedek king of Jerusalem heard that Joshua had captured Ai and devoted it to destruction—doing to Ai and its king as he had done to Jericho and its king—and that the people of Gibeon had made peace with Israel and were living among them" (Joshua 10:1). This coalition was ultimately defeated by Joshua, demonstrating God's favor upon Israel and His power over the nations.

David, King of Jerusalem

David, the second king of Israel, is perhaps the most renowned king associated with Jerusalem. After capturing the city from the Jebusites, David established it as the political and spiritual capital of Israel. In 2 Samuel 5:6-7, the Berean Standard Bible recounts: "Now the king and his men marched to Jerusalem against the Jebusites who inhabited the land. And the Jebusites said to David, 'You will never get in here; even the blind and lame can repel you,' thinking, 'David cannot get in here.' Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion (that is, the City of David)" (2 Samuel 5:6-7). David's reign in Jerusalem is marked by the unification of the tribes of Israel and the establishment of a central place of worship, which would later be the site of Solomon's Temple.

Solomon, King of Jerusalem

Solomon, David's son, succeeded him as king and is known for building the First Temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites. Solomon's reign is characterized by peace and prosperity, and his wisdom is renowned throughout the ancient world. The construction of the Temple is a pivotal event in biblical history, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people. In 1 Kings 6:1, the Berean Standard Bible notes: "In the four hundred and eightieth year after the Israelites had come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv, the second month, he began to build the house of the LORD" (1 Kings 6:1).

Theological Significance

The kingship of Jerusalem holds deep theological significance, as it is intertwined with God's covenant promises to Israel. Jerusalem is often seen as a symbol of God's presence and His eternal kingdom. The prophetic literature of the Old Testament frequently points to a future king from the line of David who will reign in righteousness and bring peace. This messianic expectation is fulfilled in the New Testament with the coming of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the "Son of David" and the "King of Kings."

Throughout the Bible, the title "King of Jerusalem" is not merely a political designation but carries profound spiritual implications, reflecting God's sovereignty and His redemptive plan for humanity.