23: The Evolution of Jerusalem’s Place Names: A Historical and Cultural Analysis

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1. Introduction

Jerusalem, one of the world’s most historically and spiritually significant cities, has borne numerous names across millennia. This article traces the evolution of Jerusalem’s place names, reflecting its complex political history and religious significance to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

2. Ancient Hebrew Origins

The earliest references to Jerusalem appear in ancient Hebrew texts as Yerushalayim (Joshua 10:1). The name is believed to combine the root yeru (foundation or city) with shalom (peace), symbolising “City of Peace” (Finkelstein & Silberman, 2006).

3. Foreign Names and Imperial Influence

  • Aelia Capitolina: After the Bar Kokhba revolt (132–136 CE), Roman Emperor Hadrian renamed the city Aelia Capitolina to suppress Jewish ties (Goodman, 1989).
  • Al-Quds: Following the Islamic conquest (7th century CE), the city was known as Al-Quds (“The Holy”), underscoring its religious importance in Islam (Barber, 1997).

4. Names in Christian Tradition

Christian pilgrims referred to Jerusalem in Latin and Greek forms such as Hierosolyma or Ierousalēm, incorporating biblical heritage and theological symbolism (Ehrlich, 2010).

5. Modern Usage and Political Context

Today, Jerusalem remains the city’s official name in English and Hebrew, while Al-Quds is used by Arab communities. The multiplicity of names reflects Jerusalem’s contested status and diverse cultural heritage (Kliot, 2002).

6. Conclusion

The evolution of Jerusalem’s place names encapsulates its layered history, religious centrality, and political complexity. These names continue to carry profound meaning for multiple faiths and peoples.

References

  • Barber, M. (1997). The Arab World and Its Names. Routledge.
  • Ehrlich, M. (2010). Christian Pilgrimage in the Holy Land. Oxford University Press.
  • Finkelstein, I., & Silberman, N. A. (2006). The Bible Unearthed. Free Press.
  • Goodman, M. (1989). Rome and Jerusalem: The Clash of Ancient Civilisations. Vintage.
  • Kliot, N. (2002). Place Names in Israel’s Ideological Struggle. Geographical Review, 92(2), 193–204.
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