Biblical Names for Jerusalem, Israel, Egypt, and Babylon
Quick Summary
The Bible often refers to Jerusalem, Israel, Egypt, and Babylon by more than one name. These names carry theological meaning, reflect historical shifts, and reveal how God’s people have understood geography, identity, and judgment across the centuries. From poetic titles like "Zion" to prophetic symbols like "Rahab," each name paints a broader picture of biblical theology.
Introduction
Many ancient cities and nations in Scripture are called by multiple names, each rich with symbolism, theology, and history. Understanding these alternative names provides insight into how the biblical writers—and the Holy Spirit—intended readers to interpret events and nations not merely geographically, but spiritually. This post explores the most significant biblical names for four key locations: Jerusalem, Israel, Egypt, and Babylon.
Biblical Names for Jerusalem
1. Zion
"Zion" is perhaps the most well-known alternative name for Jerusalem. Originally referring to a specific hill captured by David (2 Samuel 5:7), the name came to represent the entire city and, later, the spiritual hope of God’s people (Isaiah 2:3). In hymns and prophecy, Zion becomes shorthand for the holy dwelling of God and the future joy of redeemed creation (Revelation 14:1).
2. City of David
After David conquered Jerusalem, it became known as the City of David (2 Samuel 5:9). This name links the city not only to Israel’s greatest king but to the messianic promise that one of David’s descendants would rule forever (Luke 1:32-33).
3. Salem
Melchizedek, king of Salem, blesses Abram in Genesis 14:18. Psalm 76:2 equates Salem with Jerusalem. The name means "peace," and connects Jerusalem with its destiny as a city of peace—though it rarely lived up to that name historically.
4. The Holy City
Jerusalem is called "the holy city" in Isaiah 52:1 and in the New Testament (Matthew 4:5; Revelation 21:2). This title reflects the city’s centrality to God’s covenant and temple worship.
5. Ariel
In Isaiah 29:1-2, Jerusalem is referred to as "Ariel," which can mean "lion of God" or "altar hearth." It’s a complex title, one that speaks of both strength and sacrifice.
Biblical Names for Israel
1. Jacob
The patriarch Jacob was renamed Israel (Genesis 32:28), and the nation often bears both names interchangeably, especially in prophetic texts. When "Jacob" is used, it often highlights Israel’s humanity and struggle.
2. Ephraim
In the prophets, especially Hosea and Isaiah, the northern kingdom of Israel is often referred to as "Ephraim" (Hosea 4:17). Ephraim was the dominant tribe, and its name became shorthand for the entire northern kingdom.
3. Jeshurun
A poetic name for Israel meaning "upright one," found in Deuteronomy 32:15, 33:5, and Isaiah 44:2. It reflects an idealized vision of God’s people living in covenant faithfulness.
4. The House of Israel / House of Jacob
These collective terms are common in prophetic literature and emphasize the familial and covenantal identity of the nation (Ezekiel 3:1; Isaiah 2:5).
Biblical Names for Egypt
1. Mizraim
This is the Hebrew name for Egypt and appears throughout the Old Testament. Mizraim was one of the sons of Ham (Genesis 10:6), and the nation takes his name.
2. The House of Bondage
Frequently in Exodus and Deuteronomy, Egypt is called "the house of bondage" (Exodus 13:3, Deuteronomy 7:8), reflecting its central role in Israel’s slavery.
3. Rahab
In poetic and prophetic literature, especially Isaiah 30:7 and Psalm 87:4, Egypt is referred to as "Rahab," a mythical sea monster representing chaos and pride. It becomes a symbol for the futility of trusting in Egypt instead of God.
4. The Iron Furnace
Another evocative image, Egypt is called "the iron furnace" in Deuteronomy 4:20 and 1 Kings 8:51, suggesting not just bondage but a refining trial out of which God’s people were delivered.
Biblical Names for Babylon
1. Shinar
Genesis 11 places the Tower of Babel in the land of Shinar, an early name for Babylon. It continues to appear in prophetic literature (Daniel 1:2).
2. The Daughter of Babylon
Isaiah and Jeremiah use this poetic title (Isaiah 47:1; Jeremiah 50:42) to personify the empire as a proud and doomed woman.
3. Chaldea / Land of the Chaldeans
Often used interchangeably with Babylon, especially in later prophetic texts (Jeremiah 50:10; Ezekiel 12:13). The Chaldeans were a tribal people who rose to power in southern Babylon.
4. Mystery Babylon
Revelation 17:5 introduces "Babylon the Great, the mother of harlots and abominations of the earth." This is not merely a historical city but a symbolic name representing corrupt world systems opposed to God.
Symbolism and Theological Meaning
These alternative names are not just literary flourishes. They carry deep theological resonance. Zion and Ariel speak to Jerusalem’s holiness and calling. Jeshurun reminds Israel of its potential and calling. Rahab evokes the arrogance of Egypt, and Mystery Babylon becomes the archetype of human pride and idolatry.
Throughout Scripture, names are never accidental. They tell us how to read the world through God’s eyes—seeing not just geography but spiritual significance. They reveal not only where these places are, but what they mean.
Explore More
For further study, consider the following resources:
"The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament" by John H. Walton, Victor H. Matthews, and Mark W. Chavalas
"Dictionary of Biblical Imagery" (IVP)
"The New Interpreter’s Dictionary of the Bible"
These texts go deeper into the poetic, symbolic, and historical names used throughout Scripture.
Meaning for Today
When we read these names in Scripture, we’re invited into a layered understanding of history, faith, and identity. Zion is not just a hill, but a hope. Egypt is not just a nation, but a symbol of bondage and deliverance. Babylon is more than a city—it’s a warning.
By recognizing these names and what they mean, we read with clearer eyes. And in doing so, we find ourselves in the story—not just as readers, but as participants in God’s ongoing work of redemption.
