Har Shalem
She {the Holy City Salem} is the glory of your earthly kingdom. You will eternally watch over her and Your glory will manifest there. She will be an eternal passion throughout all generations to His seed.
Testament of Enosh, from the Dead Sea Scrolls
The stone walls of the city welcomed Seth’s gaze as they made the long walk uphill. The imposing height of the walls and the unyielding strength of stone upon stone gave Adam’s people a sense of security.
Adam had designed the fortress within days of seeing this mountain. Undoubtedly, they had passed the location before in their wanderings, but on that day, Adam had been transfixed by its promise. It stood nestled among a series of seven low mountains, Adam stood upstream from the Lower Fields and stared for over an hour, talking to himself and wholly ignoring every plea from Eve to communicate with her. Seth and Enosh eventually gave the order to camp and then instructed the caravan to rest and water their animals.
Long ago, they had no city, moving from place to place like nomads. Dwelling in caves then tent cities, later they constructed villages. Har Shalem had strengthened their tribes, significantly forwarding their growth and progress as a people.
Seth’s memory recalled a time when it was just Adam, Eve, and a handful of others. Seth could barely remember a time without Ahavva. The thought of leaving her again caused Seth to ache inwardly.
Three mountains nestled together amongst the group of seven hills had captured Adam’s attention. Adam chose one of the southern mounts as the foundation of their city. He first called the area Har Shalem, which means “hills of peace.” Over time the people shortened the name, now most of their people referred to the city itself as Salem.
A fortress of stone was built near the top of the mount, which the people called Zion. The city gradually grew outward from that first fortification. The southern side of the mountain had a steep drop, as did the western slope. This helped make the location defensible; attacks upon the city could only come from two directions. The northern face of the mountain had a gentle elevation as did the eastern valley where the lower fields were located.
Adam’s afternoon vision became a reality after many decades of work. Indeed, it was still a work unfolding. The city had three public levels, four massive outer stone walls and running water via an aqueduct system. Four massive gates with attendant guard-towers stood within each wall. The cliff-face Adam had affectionately named, “the fifth wall.” The city was built into the side of the mountain itself. Caves were discovered within the hill that provided added security, and their cool, dry air offered perfect storage for their harvested crops. The most significant find was the springs within the cave system. Eventually, Adam and Kenan channeled the water into the city with a network of cisterns, pipes, and stone trenches. Adam ultimately wanted their city walls to enclose the mountains to their north. Trees were planted on the mount slightly north and east. The mount to the north of Zion was undeveloped and considered a holy place, sacrifices were often made there.
There were three courtyards in Har Shalem. The First Gate was on the western side of the city and gave access to what Adam’s people called the “Old Courtyard.” This was the first enclosed courtyard built long ago. It was spacious and frequently used as a staging ground for construction projects. Terraced gardens were built into the walls and craftsmen labored in designated workspaces there. The Main Gates, officially the Second and Third Gate, was in the most spacious courtyard which faced north. The Main courtyard was also called the Plaza by some citizens. An amphitheater was built into the rear walls of the Plaza and was used for arts, worship, and public addresses. The Fourth Gate Courtyard was a spacious utilitarian area, often full of animals and children.
As Adam and his two sons neared the Fourth Gate, the guards called to them in greeting. When they did, the people within the walls heard their names, and a rush of excitement surged through the courtyard and spread from there within the walled city. Adam looked at Seth and smiled a knowing smile. Seth hated this part of his role, but Adam convinced him long ago that it was a necessary burden. As they cleared the gates and walked into the courtyard, Adam’s people cheered for Seth. Hundreds of concerned and grateful faces were fixed on him as they entered the city. Seth had prevailed over the Serpent’s followers, trespassers intent on stealing one of their own. Seth had defended them once again. Hands were clapping, and many citizens voiced thanksgivings to God for their champion.
“They need to celebrate our victories. God knows they grieve our losses. They need their champions,” Adam had told him long ago.
Seth nodded to them and waved. He knew he should say something.
Father would know what to say.
Once again, Seth wished he could speak like his father. In what seemed like a long awkward moment, Seth gazed upon his people as he prayed for something to say to them. He dropped his eyes to the ground, then looked up again.
“Today the Fallen hunted our own,” Seth proclaimed in a loud voice. “Tomorrow, we hunt them!” As Seth spoke, he raised his war club in defiance. Har Shalem’s people roared their agreement, their cries echoing off the stone walls. Though Seth did not feel gifted in speech, in matters of war, his direct and straightforward words always inspired confidence in his soldiers.
“We gather for sacrifice tonight. We ready ourselves for war. Everyone to task!” Adam commanded. More cries of agreement echoed from the people. Adam then took Seth by the shoulders and began walking him toward their homes within the city. This signaled to all that Seth was not to be approached any longer.
From the courtyard, they took private stairs that accessed the second level of the city. Adam and Seth’s homes were next to each other in a street of dwellings above the fourth gate courtyard. As they reached the second level, their homes were within sight.
Eve was waiting at the entrance to Adam’s home. Her tall figure and long hair contrasted with the more petite and slightly younger woman with hair cropped above her shoulders who stood with her. Both were undeniably beautiful and could easily pass for sisters. She was Ahavva, Seth’s wife. With them were two young girls. The girls called out as they saw Adam, Seth, and Jathan exit the stairs and walk toward them. Seth and his wife had raised several sons and daughters to maturity but still had two children at home. Leera was a girl of eleven seasons, and her sister Eleeza was eight.
The girls raced to meet them, and Seth dropped to one knee to better embrace them. Ahavva and Seth locked eyes, and both were making an effort to be composed before their children. The girls were talking over each other and asking questions. Hugs, kisses, and assurances were given that their father was whole.
“Husband...,” was all Ahavva could say as she and Seth embraced. Seth could not speak.
Eve embraced Jathan, and after she was convinced he was whole, took charge of the girls.
“Little ones, your Father was in battle and now needs time to recover. We are going to Enosh’s home until sacrifice tonight,” Eve informed the girls. Disappointed, they were assured they would see Seth later.
Eve kissed her older son’s cheek and gripped Seth’s arm as she left. They exchanged a caring, solemn glance. Like Adam, she knew the burden Seth carried to protect their people.
“Can I walk with you to Enosh’s home?” Jathan volunteered.
This pleased the girls immensely. They grew up next door to Adam’s son, but now Jathan lived at Adam’s home only occasionally. He lived in a guardhouse several days at a time with other, unmarried young men of the city. The girls missed him. Eve and Jathan held the girl’s hands and disappeared up the street together.
“Seth, Ahavva, I’ll see you at sacrifice,” Adam stated simply. They nodded in reply and watched as he and Seepha walked into his compound.
Seth and Ahavva joined hands and walked silently until they reached the entrance to their domicile. After they passed their own private courtyard and ent
ered their bedroom, they locked each other in a deep embrace. As they kissed, he winced when her hand unknowingly touched the wound on his shoulder.
Ahavva traced her finger gently around the wound. Then she dropped her head to his chest.
“I heard them cheer for you. Their war leader, their champion. But you belonged to me before them,” Ahavva whispered while in his embrace. “Never forget that. You belonged to me before most of them were born.”
Ahavva laughed at her own statement. Seth smiled in return.
“I must go. Tomorrow, before light,” Seth said, his forehead against hers. Her warmth eased the anger and grief within him. Unable to find words, Seth lingered in his wife’s embrace, savoring the peaceful moment, forging the memory as a treasure he could recall as he hunted.
“I know. You must do as God has called you. I accept that. I will long for you, and when it seems I can bear it no longer, you will return to me,” Ahavva said as she rested her head against his chest. As she breathed, the clean scent of purification oils stirred her senses.
They had been married for almost four hundred years. This scenario had played out many times before. Countless hunts or forays against the Fallen, the people of Cain, or the Nephilim. Sometimes war in open plains or defending the city against a siege. Seth and Adam would have to wage war. Seth would have to leave her.
“But I have you this moment,” Ahavva said aloud as she pulled him onto their sleeping cushions. “And I love the way you smell after purification...”
“Husband! Wake, my love. I am your wife, you are in your home,” Ahavva’s strong, clear voice came from the foot of their bed.
Seth awoke suddenly, frantically reaching for his weapon. He composed himself quickly, nodding to her so she would know he was in control of himself. Seth eased back onto the cushions and took a deep breath. Ahavva had learned how to approach him after he had been in battle. Their children had been taught as well. Together they had learned how war changes men. It is a terrible thing to fight for your life or kill another living being. Long ago, Seth feared he would harm her or a young one if they woke him, but together they learned how to adapt to the many consequences of war.
“You have only slept for a few minutes. I left out food. Eat something. Your cloak is laid out as well,” Ahavva spoke slowly and deliberately. Seth now sat on the edge of their bed. She moved to him and kissed the top of his head. “I’m going to gather the girls. Sacrifice is in a few minutes. You will hear the drums.”
Seth rose and embraced Ahavva, who was surprised at the urgency of his affection. The impending departure had aroused his mind and body with a yearning to imprint every aspect of her being to his memory; the smoothness of her skin, the shape of her body against his, her scent, and her voice. Ahavva felt the sting of separation in her own soul but now keenly sensed her husband’s pain, the ongoing burden of war and intercession that Seth had carried for centuries. Ahavva prayed silently as their arms encircled one another. They both yearned to linger, but duty was calling them both. She kissed Seth tenderly as their embrace was broken, and without words, she departed.
Chapter Eight
The City Gathers
Let the high praises of God be in their throats and two-edged swords in their hands...
Psalm 149:6
The Main Courtyard in the city was now full of people. A steady drumbeat had drawn those who had not arrived early. Beautifully landscaped and maintained, the Plaza was a source of pride for Adam’s people. The amphitheater was packed with residents, and the citizens were spilling into other parts of the Plaza. The city walls had walkways along most of their length, and young soldiers were sitting on them above the crowd as well as on the roofs of various houses or shops built into the city walls. A massive fire for the burnt offering provided light. Additionally, fixed lanterns lined with polished silver were stationed throughout the open yard. The people were mostly quiet, their mood solemn.
Kenan and Enosh stood near the fire with some of their attendants. Benches were placed behind them for those who would speak or pray to the gathered nation. The patriarchs of Adam’s bloodlines were all given a place of honor as well as some other city leaders. Enosh motioned for the people’s attention. As he did, Adam and Seth rose from their seats to join them. The people all rose at the sight of the four men standing together. Kenan, the Melchizedek of their people, raised one arm with his palm forward to address the crowd.
“Hear, O people of Adam, Seth, and Enosh: The Lord thy God, The Lord is One!” Kenan declared with a loud voice.
“The Lord is our God! There is none beside Him!” The courtyard returned their reply in thundering unison, their voices echoing off the hard-stone walls.
“The Lord has shown His love for Adam by covenant. We are His people, and He is our God, and we shall love the Lord our God!” Kenan declared, lifting both hands to the sky.
“Heart, soul, and strength!” was the assembly’s reply. The mood was lifted as smiles broke across people’s faces. The three words began to echo across the city, followed by shouts of “Hallal!” and clapping hands.
Kenan smiled broadly at the praise his people offered, surprised by their strength. Adam and Seth looked at each other and smiled, amazed as well. The city knew well what the next few days may hold, but their faith exceeded their fears. The four men stood together, pleasantly amazed at the power of their people’s response.
Eve treasured in her heart this moment, watching Adam stand with her son and grandsons before gathered generations of her descendants as they responded to God in faith.
“There is no fear among them,” Eve whispered to Ahavva, who sat beside her, holding her hand. “The One God has kept a remnant for Himself. My God humbles me yet again.”
Kenan would have enjoyed leading more responsive praise, but he motioned for the people to be seated. Adam and Seth remained standing with him. Now Enosh, who usually performed the priestly duties, addressed the crowd
“Long ago, our Father Adam had conflict with the Serpent,” Enosh began, his voice was full of strength and wisdom. “Because of this conflict, Adam left Eden’s garden to wander these plains and mountains in search of peace. And God was faithful to Adam and Eve, many sons and daughters were born to them. Cain was sent away from us and founded a great nation that serves many gods. Many have gone out and formed tribes and cities. Great has been the increase of man on the earth. But the posterity of Seth still seeks the One God!”
The offspring of Adam was often contrasted between the bloodlines of Cain and Seth. Cain’s descendants worshipped many gods, though some maintained loyalty to the One God. The godly remnant who retained their devotion to the One God primarily came from Seth’s ancestry. For this reason, the people of Salem were also called Sethites. Seth was not fond of the designation but had learned to accept it. Adam, Enosh, and Kenan all insisted that the historical contrast between Cain and Seth must be repeated. A method of instruction employing contrast and comparison was a fundamental part of their culture.
As Enosh spoke with authority, Seth marveled at his Son’s abilities. While they were alike in so many ways, Enosh had Adam’s aptitude with words. He loved the way his son paced his words as he spoke. Seth recalled what a delightful child he had been, prone to introspection but full of wonder and unassuming faith. Seth noticed Adam had looked towards him as he admired Enosh. Adam smiled, a smile that meant he knew what Seth was thinking. Both men were proud.
“Yet the Serpent would give us no peace! Enmity between Adam’s people and the children of the Serpent rages from one generation to the next!” Enosh proclaimed forcefully. The interest of the crowd was rising. Nothing was said as they waited for the next words. “Cast from heaven, they seek a kingdom for themselves on earth. The Serpent’s children would steal the daughters of men to birth monsters that would supplant us. Long have they vexed us. Long have we fought against them.”
The history of Adam�
�s conflict with the Serpent, while known to most who had gathered, was recounted during their holy days.
Enosh continued.
“In the days when Jerod son of Mahalelel was born, the Serpent’s children violated the One God’s commands yet again. Two hundred angels gathered atop the mountain called Baal-Hermon in the north. This summit is called Ardis by some of the men of Cain. On this mountain, led by twenty princes of their kind, they made a pact. These two hundred were known as Watchers, angels God assigned to serve man in the earth. But they found the daughters of men attractive and lusted after them. Knowing God would be angry with their plans, they bound themselves on oath to share their guilt equally,” Enosh explained.
“These Watchers took human wives, any as they chose, to beget champions that would rule the earth. They forged kingdoms and fashioned thrones for themselves. From high places, the Watchers posed as gods and demanded worship and blood sacrifice from the children of man. Thus, the peoples of the earth began to pass their children through the fire in sacrifice to these Baals. In exchange for men’s devotion to them, they shared with men the hidden knowledge of war, sorcery, and many other unclean arts. They have sinned against nature itself in manners of which I cannot speak. Great has been the increase of wickedness in the earth because of the Watchers,” Enosh paused as the people contemplated his dark recollections.
“The days that followed were terrible and full of bloodshed. The Nephilim children of these angels were giants and monsters. The people of the seacoasts called them Titans. These giants hunted the children of the earth and slaughtered many. In time, they also fought against each other, unable to keep their violent nature in check.” Enosh revealed, pausing again for the listeners to meditate.
“The Serpent himself encouraged the Watchers plans, hopeful that all the bloodlines of man would be tainted by their offspring. If all flesh was corrupted, no intercessor could arise to challenge him. But the One God has kept a people for himself!” Enosh declared raising his right hand, and his volume increasing. “God declared that Eve’s seed would have enmity with the seed of the Serpent. While the Serpent may strike our heel, the seed of the woman will crush his skull. This is the testimony of Adam and Eve concerning God’s promise.” Enoch finished. Several in the courtyard raised hands in agreement with Enosh’s testimony.
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