Topical Encyclopedia Place:Zion is a term that holds profound significance in the biblical narrative, representing both a physical location and a spiritual symbol. Initially, Zion referred to the ancient Jebusite fortress captured by King David, which became the City of David. This is recorded in 2 Samuel 5:7: "Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion (that is, the City of David)." Over time, the term expanded to encompass the entire city of Jerusalem, particularly the Temple Mount, where Solomon built the Temple, making it the center of Israelite worship. Forms: Zion is not only a geographical location but also a representation of God's dwelling place among His people. The Temple in Jerusalem, situated on Mount Zion, was the focal point of Israelite worship, where sacrifices were offered, and festivals were celebrated. Psalm 132:13-14 highlights this divine choice: "For the LORD has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His home: 'This is My resting place forever and ever; here I will dwell, for I have desired this place.'" The prophets often used Zion to symbolize the spiritual heart of Israel, a place of divine presence and future hope. Isaiah 2:3 speaks of a time when "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." Assemblies: Zion also represents the collective assembly of God's people. In the Old Testament, it was the gathering place for the tribes of Israel during the major feasts, such as Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. These assemblies were times of communal worship, reflection, and renewal of the covenant relationship with God. In the New Testament, Zion takes on a more spiritual dimension, symbolizing the heavenly Jerusalem and the assembly of believers in Christ. Hebrews 12:22-23 states, "Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to myriads of angels in joyful assembly, to the congregation of the firstborn, enrolled in heaven." Zion, therefore, is a multifaceted term that encompasses the physical city of Jerusalem, the spiritual center of Israelite worship, and the eschatological hope of God's eternal kingdom. It is a place where God's presence is manifest, His people are gathered, and His purposes are fulfilled. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 19:21,31This is the word that the LORD has spoken concerning him; The virgin the daughter of Zion has despised you, and laughed you to scorn; the daughter of Jerusalem has shaken her head at you. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 9:11 Psalm 48:2,11,12 Psalm 74:2 Psalm 132:13 Psalm 137:1 Isaiah 35:10 Isaiah 40:9 Isaiah 49:14 Isaiah 51:16 Isaiah 52:1,2,7,8 Isaiah 60:14 Isaiah 62:1,11 Jeremiah 31:6 Jeremiah 50:5 Lamentations 1:4 Joel 2:1,15 Matthew 21:5 John 12:15 Romans 9:33 Romans 11:26 1 Peter 2:6 Resources What is the significance of the city of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the different names for the Israelites, and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.org What is Zionism / Christian Zionism? | GotQuestions.org Zion: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Zion: Applied to the City of the Redeemed Zion: Called "The City of David" Zion: Captured from the Jebusites by David Zion: Collectively, the Place, the Forms, and the Assemblies of Israelite Worship Zion: Restoration of, Promised Zion: The Ark of the Covenant: Placed In Zion: The Ark of the Covenant: Removed From, to Solomon's Temple on Mount Moriah Related Terms |