Jerusalem etymology

Etymology of Jerusalem:

The name "Jerusalem" is derived from the Hebrew phrase "Yerushalayim" (ירושלים), which is a compound of two words:

  • "Yerush" (ירש) meaning "to inherit" or "possession"
  • "Shalem" (שלם) meaning "complete" or "peace"

Meaning of Jerusalem:

  • City of Inheritance: The name "Yerushalayim" suggests that the city is an "inheritance" or a "possession," either given by God to the people of Israel or inherited from past rulers.
  • City of Peace: The second part of the name, "Shalem," evokes the idea of "peace" or "completeness." Jerusalem has long been a symbol of hope and unity for different religious traditions, and the name reflects its aspiration to be a place of harmony and reconciliation.

Origin:

The name "Yerushalayim" first appears in the Bible in the book of Genesis, where it is mentioned as a Canaanite city that was later captured by Abraham (Genesis 14:18). It became the capital of the Kingdom of Israel under King David in the 11th century BCE, and remained the religious and cultural center of the Jewish people throughout history.

Over time, the name has been adopted into various languages:

  • Greek: Hierosolyma (Ιερουσαλήμ)
  • Latin: Hierusalem
  • Arabic: Al-Quds (القدس)
  • English: Jerusalem

Today, Jerusalem is a contested city that is claimed as the capital by both Israel and Palestine. Its name and meaning continue to hold religious, cultural, and political significance for people around the world.

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