Location
Overview
Salem appears in Genesis as the city of the mysterious priest-king Melchizedek. Its name means "peace," and Scripture itself links it to the city that would become Jerusalem (Psalm 76:2).
Melchizedek blesses Abram
Returning from rescuing Lot, Abram was met by "Melchizedek king of Salem," who "brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God." He blessed Abram, who in turn gave him a tenth of all the spoil (Genesis 14:18–20).
"King of peace"
The letter to the Hebrews unfolds the meaning: Melchizedek is "King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace" — a priest "made like unto the Son of God" who points forward to Christ's eternal priesthood (Hebrews 7:1–3).
Salem and Jerusalem
"In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion" (Psalm 76:2) — identifying Salem with the city David would one day make the holy capital.
Events Here
Melchizedek king of Salem blesses Abram
Scripture References
4 versesGenesis1 verse
Genesis 14:18
And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God.
Psalms1 verse
Psalms 76:2
In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.
Hebrews2 verses
Hebrews 7:1
For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;
Hebrews 7:2
To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;
Archaeology & History
Salem is traditionally identified with Jerusalem, an identification made within Scripture itself (Psalm 76:2). The encounter of Abram with Melchizedek there gave the site a priestly significance long before David captured the city and Solomon built the temple on Mount Moriah.
People who appear here
Frequently asked about Salem
Where is Salem today?
Today, Salem corresponds to Jerusalem.
What does the name Salem mean?
The name Salem means “Peace”.
What happened at Salem in the Bible?
Key biblical events at Salem include melchizedek king of salem blesses abram.
Where is Salem first mentioned in the Bible?
Salem is first mentioned in Genesis 14:18.
How often is Salem mentioned in the Bible?
Salem is mentioned in 4 verses across 3 books: Genesis, Psalms, Hebrews.
Is Salem the same as Jerusalem?
Yes — Scripture identifies them (Psalm 76:2 sets "Salem" parallel with "Zion"), so the city of Melchizedek is traditionally understood as early Jerusalem.
Who was the king of Salem?
Melchizedek, "priest of the most high God," who blessed Abraham and received a tithe from him. Hebrews presents him as a type of Christ, the eternal "King of peace."