Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Ker'i-oth, sometimes spelled Kerioth, is a name derived from the Hebrew root "qarah," meaning "cities" or "towns." The name suggests a place consisting of multiple settlements or a fortified city. Biblical References: Ker'i-oth is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the tribal allotments and prophetic literature. It is identified as a city in the territory of Moab. The most notable references to Ker'i-oth are found in the following passages: 1. Jeremiah 48:24, 41 : "upon Kerioth, Bozrah, and all the towns of Moab, those far and near." "Kerioth has been captured, and the strongholds seized. In that day the hearts of Moab’s warriors will be like the heart of a woman in labor." 2. Amos 2:2 : "So I will send fire upon Moab, and it will consume the citadels of Kerioth; and Moab will die in the tumult, with a war cry and the blast of the trumpet." Historical and Geographical Context: Ker'i-oth is traditionally associated with the region of Moab, located east of the Dead Sea. Moab was a frequent subject of prophetic judgment due to its historical enmity with Israel and its idolatrous practices. The city of Ker'i-oth, as part of Moab, would have been a significant urban center, possibly serving as a hub for trade and military activities. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Ker'i-oth remains uncertain, some scholars suggest it may correspond to the archaeological site of el-Qaryat, located in modern-day Jordan. This site has yielded evidence of ancient settlement patterns consistent with a city of considerable size and importance during the biblical period. Theological Significance: Ker'i-oth's mention in the prophetic books underscores the theme of divine judgment against nations that opposed Israel and engaged in idolatry. The prophecies against Moab, including Ker'i-oth, highlight God's sovereignty over all nations and His commitment to justice. The destruction of Ker'i-oth serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from the worship of the one true God. Connection to Judas Iscariot: Some biblical scholars and commentators have speculated a connection between Ker'i-oth and Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' twelve apostles. The name "Iscariot" is thought by some to mean "man of Kerioth," suggesting that Judas may have hailed from this region. However, this connection remains speculative and is not definitively supported by biblical or historical evidence. Cultural and Religious Impact: Ker'i-oth, as part of the Moabite territory, would have been influenced by the religious practices of the Moabites, who worshiped Chemosh, their chief deity. The city's inclusion in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to the broader cultural and religious interactions between Israel and its neighbors. In summary, Ker'i-oth is a city of historical and prophetic significance within the biblical narrative, representing both the geopolitical realities of the ancient Near East and the theological themes of judgment and redemption. Concordance Ker'i-oth (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 48:24 Thesaurus Ker'i-oth (1 Occurrence)Ker'i-oth. Ker'ioth, Ker'i-oth. Keriothhezron . Multi-Version Concordance Ker'i-oth (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 48:24 And on Kerioth ... /k/ker'i-oth.htm - 6k Ker'i-oth-hezron (1 Occurrence) Ker'ioth (1 Occurrence) Kerioth-hezron (1 Occurrence) Keriothhezron Kerith (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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