Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: Huzoth is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the narrative concerning the Moabite king Balak and the prophet Balaam. The name "Huzoth" is derived from the Hebrew word "חֻצוֹת" (Chutzoth), which means "streets" or "villages." It is often understood to refer to a specific location or a group of settlements within the territory of Moab. Biblical References: Huzoth is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, during the account of Balak's attempts to persuade Balaam to curse the Israelites. In Numbers 22:39 , it is written: "So Balaam went with Balak, and they came to Kiriath-huzoth." This passage indicates that Huzoth, or Kiriath-huzoth, was a place of significance in Moab, possibly a city or a collection of villages where Balak brought Balaam. Historical and Geographical Context: The mention of Huzoth occurs in the narrative set during the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, as they encamped in the plains of Moab, across the Jordan River from Jericho. Moab was a region located east of the Dead Sea, and it was inhabited by the descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew. The Moabites were often in conflict with the Israelites, and the account of Balak and Balaam highlights the tension between these two groups. Kiriath-huzoth, which translates to "city of streets" or "city of villages," suggests a place of some urban development or a central location within Moab. While the exact location of Huzoth is not definitively known today, it is understood to be within the broader region of Moab, which is part of modern-day Jordan. Theological Significance: The account of Huzoth in the Bible is part of the larger narrative involving Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet who is called upon by Balak to curse the Israelites. This account underscores several theological themes, including the sovereignty of God over all nations and peoples, and the futility of opposing God's chosen people. Despite Balak's intentions, God uses Balaam to bless Israel instead of cursing them, demonstrating His ultimate control over human affairs. The mention of Huzoth serves to ground the narrative in a real geographical and cultural setting, emphasizing the historical interactions between Israel and its neighbors. It also highlights the spiritual reality that God's purposes prevail, regardless of human schemes or the locations where they unfold. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: While there is limited archaeological evidence directly identifying Huzoth, the broader region of Moab has been the subject of various archaeological studies. These studies provide insights into the Moabite culture, their cities, and their interactions with neighboring peoples, including the Israelites. Artifacts and inscriptions from the region help to corroborate the biblical narrative and offer a glimpse into the life and times of the Moabites during the biblical period. In summary, Huzoth, as mentioned in the Bible, is a testament to the historical and theological richness of the biblical narrative, illustrating the complex relationships between Israel and its neighbors and the overarching theme of divine providence. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary HuzothStrong's Hebrew 7155. Qiryath Chutsoth -- "city of streets," a city in Moab... "city of streets," a city in Moab. Transliteration: Qiryath Chutsoth Phonetic Spelling: (keer-yath' khoo-tsoth') Short Definition: Kiriath-huzoth. ... Kirjath-huzoth ... /hebrew/7155.htm - 6k Library The Witness of Balaam to Israel Thesaurus Kiriath-huzoth (1 Occurrence)Kiriath-huzoth. Kiriathhuzoth, Kiriath-huzoth. Kir'iath-hu'zoth . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-HUZOTH. kir-i ... /k/kiriath-huzoth.htm - 7k Kirjath-huzoth (1 Occurrence) Huzoth (1 Occurrence) Kiriathhuzoth Kir'iath-hu'zoth (1 Occurrence) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Huzzab (1 Occurrence) Balaam (62 Occurrences) Kirjathhuzoth (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Huzoth (1 Occurrence)Numbers 22:39 Subtopics Related Terms |
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