Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Location: Kiriath-arim, also known as Kiriath-jearim, is a biblical city whose name means "City of Forests" or "City of Woods." It is located in the tribal territory of Judah, near the border with Benjamin. The site is identified with modern-day Deir el-Azar, approximately 8 miles west of Jerusalem. Biblical References and Historical Significance: Kiriath-arim is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, playing a significant role in the history of Israel. It is first noted in the Book of Joshua as one of the cities given to the tribe of Judah: "Kiriath-jearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth—fourteen cities, along with their villages" (Joshua 18:28). The city is most famously associated with the Ark of the Covenant. After the Ark was returned by the Philistines, it was brought to Kiriath-arim and placed in the house of Abinadab on the hill. It remained there for twenty years until King David moved it to Jerusalem: "So the men of Kiriath-jearim came for the Ark of the LORD and took it into the house of Abinadab on the hill. They consecrated his son Eleazar to guard the Ark of the LORD" (1 Samuel 7:1). Religious and Cultural Context: Kiriath-arim served as a significant religious center during the time the Ark was housed there. The presence of the Ark symbolized God's presence and favor, making the city an important spiritual site for the Israelites. The Ark's stay in Kiriath-arim marked a period of relative peace and stability for Israel, as the people turned back to the LORD under the leadership of Samuel. Prophetic and Messianic Connections: While Kiriath-arim itself is not directly linked to messianic prophecies, its role in safeguarding the Ark of the Covenant ties it to the broader narrative of God's covenant with Israel. The Ark, as a symbol of God's promise and presence, foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant with His people. Archaeological Insights: Modern archaeological efforts have sought to uncover more about Kiriath-arim's history and its role in ancient Israel. Excavations have revealed structures and artifacts that provide insight into the city's layout and daily life during biblical times. These findings help to corroborate the biblical narrative and enhance our understanding of the cultural and historical context of the region. Conclusion: Kiriath-arim stands as a testament to the enduring faithfulness of God to His people. Its role in the history of the Ark of the Covenant highlights the city's importance in the spiritual life of ancient Israel and its contribution to the unfolding account of God's redemptive plan. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-ARIMkir-i-ath-a'-rim (Ezra 2:25). Strong's Hebrew 7157. Qiryath Yearim -- "city of forests," a city given to Judah ...... Word Origin from qiryah and yaar Definition "city of forests," a city given to Judah, then to Benjamin NASB Word Usage Kiriath (1), Kiriath-arim (1), Kiriath ... /hebrew/7157.htm - 6k Thesaurus KiriatharimKiriatharim. Kir'iath-ar'ba, Kiriatharim. Kir'iathar'im . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-ARIM. kir-i-ath-a'-rim (Ezra 2:25). See KIRIATH-JEARIM. ... /k/kiriatharim.htm - 6k Kiriath-arim (1 Occurrence) Kir'iathar'im (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-ar'ba (9 Occurrences) 743 (1 Occurrence) Kiriath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kephirah (4 Occurrences) Kiriathbaal Kiriathjearim Resources Who is Caleb in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Othniel? | GotQuestions.org Who was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Kiriath-arim (1 Occurrence)Ezra 2:25 Subtopics Related Terms |
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