Salem (Bible)


Salem is an ancient Middle Eastern town mentioned in the Bible.

Overview

Salem is referenced in the following biblical passages:
The name refers to the royal city of Melchizedek and is traditionally identified with Jerusalem. It is also mentioned in Hebrews 7.
Possibly a different place is mentioned in Genesis 33:18: "And Jacob came to Shalem, a city of Shechem, which is in the land of Canaan, when he came from Padanaram; and pitched his tent before the city." The town of Salim, corresponds to that location. It is also mentioned in the Gospel of John 3:23: "And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim , because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized."
Based on Joseph Smith's translation of the Bible, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe the ancient city of Salem and its inhabitants were taken into heaven, or "translated," in the same manner as the City of Enoch.
Various towns have been named after Biblical Salem.