Strong’s G4530: From Hebrew שָׁלֵם (Shalem), meaning “peace.” A location near Aenon where John baptized, possibly connected to ancient Salem/Jerusalem. Its mention in John’s Gospel emphasizes the continuity between John’s baptismal ministry and ancient sacred sites of Israel.

U- Unveiling the Word

The place name Σαλείμ appears in John 3:23 in connection with John’s baptismal ministry. Its location “near Aenon” where there was “much water” connects the ministry of baptism with a place whose name suggests peace and completeness. Early church fathers saw significance in this location’s name connection to Jerusalem/Salem, viewing it as linking John’s preparatory ministry with the coming peace of Christ’s kingdom. Today, Σαλείμ reminds us how God often connects His new work with places of historical spiritual significance.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Σαλείμ, Saleim, /sal-ime’/
• Pronunciation Guide: “sal” (like ‘sal’), “ime” (like ‘seem’)
• Part of Speech: Proper Noun

Etymology:

• From Hebrew שָׁלֵם (Shalem)
• Root: שלם (sh-l-m) – complete, peaceful
• No Greek prefixes or suffixes
• Transliteration of Hebrew place name

D – Defining Meanings

• Place of peace
• Complete/perfect place
• Sacred location
• Baptismal site

For compound words:
Not a compound word – it’s a transliteration of a Hebrew place name

Translation Options:

• “Salim” – traditional English transliteration
• “Salem” – alternative transliteration
• “Place of Peace” – meaning-based translation

E – Exploring Similar Words

• εἰρήνη (eirēnē) /i-ray’-nay/ – peace See G1515 – Greek equivalent meaning
• Ἱεροσόλυμα (Hierosolyma) /hee-er-os-ol’-oo-mah/ – Jerusalem See G2414 – related place
• Σιών (Siōn) /see-own’/ – Zion See G4622 – related sacred location

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a proper noun:

• Indeclinable
• No case changes
• No number changes
• No gender variations

The place name remains unchanged in Greek text as it’s a transliteration.

Cross-references:

• Hebrew equivalent: שָׁלֵם (Shalem)
• Related concept: שָׁלוֹם (shalom) – peace

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG discusses its location and baptismal significance. Thayer’s connects it to ancient Salem. LSJ notes its appearance in geographical contexts. Vine’s highlights its connection to John’s ministry. Strong’s traces its Hebrew etymology. LEH documents its use in Jewish literature. Moulton and Milligan show its presence in geographical documents.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there; and people were coming and were being baptized (John 3:23)

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The place Σαλείμ symbolizes how King Jesus brings true peace through baptism and repentance. Its connection to John’s ministry of preparation reminds us that true peace comes through turning to Christ. This proclaims the good news that Jesus fulfills the peace suggested by this ancient place name, offering complete shalom to all who come to Him.

D – Did You Know?

1. The location’s abundant water made it ideal for baptismal ministry.
2. Early Christian pilgrims visited this site well into the Byzantine period.
3. The name’s connection to “peace” influenced early Christian baptismal theology.

Strong’s G4530: From Hebrew שָׁלֵם (Shalem), meaning “peace.” A location near Aenon where John baptized, possibly connected to ancient Salem/Jerusalem. Its mention in John’s Gospel emphasizes the continuity between John’s baptismal ministry and ancient sacred sites of Israel.

Part of speech: Proper Noun

Tags: Salim, baptism, John the Baptist, peace, sacred sites, John’s Gospel, water, geographical locations, Hebrew names, ministry locations​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​