Topical Encyclopedia Kiriath-huzoth, meaning "City of Streets" or "City of Villages," is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. It is associated with the narrative of Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, who was summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites as they journeyed through the region during their wilderness wanderings.Biblical Reference: The primary reference to Kiriath-huzoth is found in Numbers 22:39-40. The Berean Standard Bible states: "So Balaam went with Balak, and they came to Kiriath-huzoth. And Balak sacrificed cattle and sheep, and he gave some to Balaam and the princes who were with him." Historical and Geographical Context: Kiriath-huzoth is believed to have been located in the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River, near the territory of the Moabites. The exact location of Kiriath-huzoth remains uncertain, as it is not mentioned elsewhere in the biblical text or in extrabiblical sources. However, its mention in the context of Balak's actions suggests it was a place of some significance, possibly a city with multiple streets or a collection of villages. Cultural and Religious Significance: The narrative involving Kiriath-huzoth highlights the tension between the Israelites and the surrounding nations during their journey to the Promised Land. Balak's invitation to Balaam to come to Kiriath-huzoth underscores the Moabite king's desperation to thwart the perceived threat of the Israelites through spiritual means. The sacrifices offered by Balak at Kiriath-huzoth were likely intended to secure divine favor or intervention against Israel. Balaam's presence at Kiriath-huzoth is significant in the broader biblical narrative, as it sets the stage for the subsequent oracles he delivers, which, contrary to Balak's intentions, bless the Israelites instead of cursing them. This episode underscores the sovereignty of God over the nations and His protection of Israel, as even a foreign prophet is compelled to speak blessings rather than curses. Theological Implications: The account of Kiriath-huzoth and Balaam's involvement serves as a reminder of God's ultimate control over the affairs of nations and individuals. Despite human attempts to manipulate spiritual forces for personal or political gain, God's purposes prevail. The account also illustrates the theme of divine blessing and protection for His chosen people, Israel, a recurring motif throughout the Old Testament. In summary, Kiriath-huzoth is a site of historical and theological interest within the biblical narrative, representing a moment where God's will is demonstrated through the unexpected actions of a foreign prophet, affirming His covenantal promises to Israel. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-HUZOTHkir-i-ath hu'-zoth: qiryath-chutsoth, "city of streets"; Septuagint reads) poleis epauleon, "city of villages," from which we may infer a reading chatseroth, for chutsoth; the King James Version, Kirjathhuzoth): A place to which, after their meeting, Balak and Balaam went together (Numbers 22:39). They met at "the City of Moab" (Numbers 22:36), which is probably identical with KIR OF MOAB (which see); Kiriath-huzoth was probably therefore not far from that city. Some would identify it with Kiriathaim; some with Kerioth; as yet there is no certainty. Strong'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. ... /hebrew/7155.htm - 6k Library The Witness of Balaam to Israel Thesaurus Kiriathhuzoth... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-HUZOTH. kir-i-ath hu'-zoth: qiryath-chutsoth, "city of streets"; Septuagint reads) poleis ... /k/kiriathhuzoth.htm - 7k Kiriath-huzoth (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-hu'zoth (1 Occurrence) Balaam (62 Occurrences) Kir'iath-ba'al (2 Occurrences) Kiriath (34 Occurrences) Balak (42 Occurrences) Huzoth (1 Occurrence) 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-huzoth (1 Occurrence)Numbers 22:39 Subtopics Related Terms |
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