Brief Overview of Σαλήμ (Strong’s G4532: Salēm)

Strong’s G4532: From Hebrew שָׁלֵם (Shalem), meaning “peace,” referring to the ancient city where Melchizedek served as king-priest. Used in Hebrews to establish the typological connection between Melchizedek’s priesthood and Christ’s eternal priesthood, emphasizing peace and righteousness.

U- Unveiling the Word

The term Σαλήμ carries profound theological significance in Hebrews 7:1, where it appears in discussion of Melchizedek’s priesthood. As the ancient name for Jerusalem, meaning “peace,” it connects the mysterious king-priest Melchizedek to Christ’s eternal priesthood. Early church fathers saw in this name a prophetic pointer to Christ as the true King of Peace. Today, Σαλήμ reminds us that Christ’s priesthood brings true peace, fulfilling and surpassing the ancient type represented by Melchizedek.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Σαλήμ, Salēm, /sal-ame’/
• Pronunciation Guide: “sal” (like ‘sal’), “ame” (like ‘aim’)
• Part of Speech: Proper Noun

Etymology:

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

D – Defining Meanings

• City of Peace
• Ancient Jerusalem
• Dwelling of peace
• Complete/perfect place

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

Translation Options:

• “Salem” – traditional transliteration
• “City of Peace” – meaning-based translation
• “Ancient Jerusalem” – historical identification

E – Exploring Similar Words

• Ἱερουσαλήμ (Hierousalēm) /hee-er-oo-sal-ame’/ – Jerusalem See G2419 – later name
• εἰρήνη (eirēnē) /i-ray’-nay/ – peace See G1515 – Greek equivalent meaning
• Σιών (Siōn) /see-own’/ – Zion See G4622 – related 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 emphasizes its connection to Melchizedek. Thayer’s explores its relationship to Jerusalem. LSJ documents its historical significance. Vine’s highlights its typological importance. Strong’s connects it to peace and completeness. LEH notes its use in Jewish literature. Moulton and Milligan show its continued significance in religious texts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham as he was returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him (Hebrews 7:1)

Additional References:
Hebrews 7:2

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The name Σαλήμ powerfully points to King Jesus as our eternal High Priest and Prince of Peace. Through its connection to Melchizedek, it proclaims Christ’s superior priesthood that brings true and lasting peace. This demonstrates how the good news was foreshadowed in ancient times and fully realized in Christ’s perfect priesthood.

D – Did You Know?

1. Salem is traditionally identified with ancient Jerusalem.
2. The name influenced Christian understanding of Christ’s priestly role.
3. Early church liturgies often referenced Salem in discussions of Christ’s priesthood.

Strong’s G4532: From Hebrew שָׁלֵם (Shalem), meaning “peace,” referring to the ancient city where Melchizedek served as king-priest. Used in Hebrews to establish the typological connection between Melchizedek’s priesthood and Christ’s eternal priesthood, emphasizing peace and righteousness.

Part of speech: Proper Noun

Tags: Salem, peace, Melchizedek, priesthood, Hebrews, Jerusalem, typology, Christ’s priesthood, ancient cities, biblical history​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​