Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Kir'iatha'im, often translated as "two cities" or "double city," is a name that appears in various contexts within the biblical narrative. The name suggests a settlement that may have been composed of two distinct parts or sections. Biblical References: Kir'iatha'im is mentioned in several passages throughout the Old Testament, each providing insight into its historical and geographical significance. 1. Genesis 14:5 · Kir'iatha'im is first mentioned in the context of the battle of the kings. It is listed as one of the places conquered by Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him: "In the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer and the kings who were with him came and defeated the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim, the Zuzim in Ham, the Emim in Shaveh-kiriathaim" . This indicates its early existence and involvement in regional conflicts. 2. Numbers 32:37 · The city is noted as part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Reuben: "The Reubenites built up Heshbon, Elealeh, and Kiriathaim" . This suggests that Kir'iatha'im was a significant settlement during the Israelite settlement of the Transjordan region. 3. Joshua 13:19 · Kir'iatha'im is again mentioned in the context of the Reubenite inheritance: "Kiriathaim, Sibmah, Zereth-shahar on the hill in the valley" . This further confirms its location within the tribal lands of Reuben. 4. Jeremiah 48:1, 23 · The prophet Jeremiah includes Kir'iatha'im in his oracle against Moab, indicating its later control by the Moabites: "Concerning Moab: This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Woe to Nebo, for it will be devastated. Kiriathaim will be captured; the fortress will be shattered and disgraced'" . This passage highlights the city's strategic importance and its eventual downfall. 5. Ezekiel 25:9 · The prophet Ezekiel also references Kir'iatha'im in his pronouncement against Moab: "therefore I will expose the flank of Moab, beginning with its frontier cities—Beth-jeshimoth, Baal-meon, and Kiriathaim—the glory of the land" . This underscores its prominence within the region. Historical and Geographical Context: Kir'iatha'im was located east of the Jordan River, in the region historically associated with the Moabites and the tribe of Reuben. Its mention alongside other significant cities suggests it was a notable settlement in the ancient Near East. The city's repeated association with Moab in prophetic literature indicates that it was a site of strategic and possibly economic importance. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Kir'iatha'im remains uncertain, it is generally believed to be in the area of modern-day Jordan. Archaeological efforts in the region have sought to identify sites that match the biblical descriptions, though definitive evidence linking a specific site to Kir'iatha'im has yet to be found. Theological Significance: Kir'iatha'im's inclusion in various biblical narratives highlights the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. Its repeated mention in prophetic judgments against Moab serves as a reminder of the broader themes of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's promises concerning the land and its peoples. The city's history reflects the shifting control and influence in the region, illustrating the transient nature of earthly power in contrast to the enduring sovereignty of God. Concordance Kir'iatha'im (1 Occurrence)Joshua 13:19 Thesaurus Kir'iatha'im (1 Occurrence)Kir'iatha'im. Kiriatha'im, Kir'iatha'im. Kiriatharba . Multi-Version Concordance Kir'iatha'im (1 Occurrence). Joshua 13:19 and Kiriathaim ... /k/kir'iatha'im.htm - 6k Kiriatha'im (5 Occurrences) Kiriatharba (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |