Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Kir-heres, also referred to as Kir-hareseth or Kir-haresh, is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of prophecies against Moab. It is identified as a fortified city within the territory of Moab, an ancient kingdom located east of the Dead Sea. The name "Kir-heres" is often translated to mean "city of the sun" or "city of potsherds," reflecting its possible role as a center of pottery production or its geographical features. Biblical References: Kir-heres is mentioned in several prophetic books of the Bible, highlighting its importance in the judgment pronounced against Moab. The city is notably referenced in Isaiah, Jeremiah, and 2 Kings. 1. Isaiah 16:7, 11 : The prophet Isaiah laments the destruction of Moab, specifically mentioning Kir-hareseth. "Therefore let Moab wail; let them wail together for Moab. Moan for the raisin cakes of Kir-hareseth, you who are utterly stricken." (Isaiah 16:7). This passage underscores the city's significance in Moab's economy and culture, particularly in the production of raisin cakes, a staple of the region. 2. Jeremiah 48:31, 36 : Jeremiah echoes the lament over Moab's downfall, with specific reference to Kir-heres. "Therefore I will wail for Moab; I will cry out for all Moab; I will moan for the men of Kir-heres." (Jeremiah 48:31). The prophet's sorrowful tone reflects the impending doom and the deep emotional impact of Moab's judgment. 3. 2 Kings 3:25 : The historical account of the battle between Israel and Moab under King Mesha includes a reference to Kir-hareseth. "They destroyed the cities, and each man threw a stone into every good field until it was covered. They stopped up all the springs and cut down every good tree. Only Kir-hareseth was left with its stones, but the slingers surrounded it and attacked it as well." (2 Kings 3:25). This passage highlights the city's strategic importance and its resilience during military conflict. Historical and Archaeological Context: Kir-heres is often identified with the modern archaeological site of Kerak, located in present-day Jordan. The city's strategic position on the King's Highway, a major trade route, contributed to its prominence in the region. Archaeological findings suggest that Kir-heres was a well-fortified city, consistent with its biblical portrayal as a stronghold. Theological Significance: In the biblical narrative, Kir-heres serves as a symbol of Moab's strength and subsequent vulnerability. The prophecies concerning Kir-heres illustrate the broader theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God's people. The lamentations over Moab and Kir-heres emphasize the consequences of pride and idolatry, serving as a warning to other nations and a reminder of God's sovereignty over all kingdoms. Cultural and Economic Role: The mention of raisin cakes in Isaiah 16:7 suggests that Kir-heres was a center of agricultural and economic activity. The production of raisin cakes, a valued commodity in the ancient Near East, indicates the city's role in trade and sustenance. This economic aspect adds depth to the understanding of Kir-heres as more than just a military stronghold but also a hub of cultural and economic life in Moab. Conclusion: While Kir-heres is primarily known through the lens of prophetic judgment, its historical and cultural significance provides insight into the life and times of ancient Moab. The city's repeated mention in the context of divine prophecy underscores its importance in the biblical narrative and its role as a testament to the fulfillment of God's word. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia QIR-HARESETH; KIR-HERESkur-har'-seth, -ha-re'-seth> (qir-charesh, Isaiah 16:7; in 2 Kings 3:25 the King James Version reads Kir-haraseth (pausal form)); (qir cheres, Jeremiah 48:31, 36; in Isaiah 16:11 the King James Version reads Kir-haresh (pausal form)): Modern scholars unanimously identify this city with Kir of Moab. In Jehoram's invasion of Moab it alone withstood his attack; and on the city wall the king of Moab sacrificed his son (2 Kings 3:25). It was obviously the capital, i.e. Kir Moab. The name is generally taken to mean "city of the sun." Cheyne, however, points out (EB, under the word): Strong's Hebrew 7025. Qir Cheres -- "wall of earthenware," a fortified city in ...... Word Origin from qir and cheres Definition "wall of earthenware," a fortified city in Moab NASB Word Usage Kir-hareseth (3), Kir-heres (2). ... /hebrew/7025.htm - 6k Library And ii. Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Thesaurus Kirheres (3 Occurrences)... was unknown to the ancients; (2) that"kir" is nowhere suposed to mean "city," except in the compound names Kir-heres, Kir-hareseth ...Kirheres (3 Occurrences). ... /k/kirheres.htm - 8k Kir-heres (3 Occurrences) Kir-he'res (3 Occurrences) Kir-hareseth (3 Occurrences) Kir (11 Occurrences) Heres (7 Occurrences) Qir-hareseth Qirhareseth Kirhareseth (2 Occurrences) Laments (4 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of Damascus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Kir-heres (3 Occurrences)Isaiah 16:11 Jeremiah 48:31 Jeremiah 48:36 Subtopics Related Terms |
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