Bible Dictionary

Zion

The name of the stronghold captured by David in Jerusalem, later used in Scripture for Jerusalem and associated places.

Quick Reference

Total Entries

592

Entry Position

589 of 592

Letter

Z

Meaning

The name of the stronghold captured by David in Jerusalem, later used in Scripture for Jerusalem and associated places.

Key Scriptures

  • 2 Samuel 5:7-9
  • 1 Kings 8:1
  • Psalm 48:2
  • Psalm 132:13
  • Isaiah 2:3
  • Isaiah 62:1
  • Hebrews 12:22
  • Revelation 14:1

Original Language

Hebrew

צִיּוֹן

Tsiyyon

The Hebrew name Zion; its original etymology is uncertain.

Meaning

Zion is the name of the stronghold captured by David in Jerusalem, later used in Scripture for Jerusalem and associated places.


Biblical Usage

In 2 Samuel 5:7, Zion is the stronghold captured by David from the Jebusites. The passage identifies it as the City of David.

In later biblical usage, Zion can refer to Jerusalem or a place associated with worship and the LORD’s dwelling. The name appears in poetry, prophecy, and the New Testament, and its particular reference must be determined from context. <Cite refs={[“turn894370search12”,“turn894370search16”]}/>


Key References

  • 2 Samuel 5:7-9 — Records David’s capture of the stronghold of Zion.
  • 1 Kings 8:1 — Records the gathering of Israel’s elders in Jerusalem for the temple dedication.
  • Psalm 48:2 — Describes Mount Zion in connection with the city of the great King.
  • Psalm 132:13 — States that the LORD hath chosen Zion.
  • Isaiah 2:3 — Describes the law going forth from Zion and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
  • Isaiah 62:1 — Mentions Zion and Jerusalem in a prophecy concerning righteousness.
  • Hebrews 12:22 — Refers to Mount Sion and the city of the living God.
  • Revelation 14:1 — Describes the Lamb standing on Mount Sion.

  • Jerusalem — The ancient city in which David established his royal stronghold.
  • City of David — The name associated with David’s stronghold and royal city.
  • Temple — A place designated for worship.
  • Judah — The tribe and territory associated with the southern kingdom of Israel.

Study More

Continue your Bible study by exploring related Scriptures, dictionary terms, and connected topics.

Scriptures

  • 2 Samuel 5:7-9
  • 1 Kings 8:1
  • Psalm 48:2
  • Psalm 132:13
  • Isaiah 2:3
  • Isaiah 62:1
  • Hebrews 12:22
  • Revelation 14:1

Related Terms

Study Topics

Places Cities Biblical History