Topical Encyclopedia Kiriathaim is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily associated with the territories of Moab and the tribe of Reuben. The name "Kiriathaim" means "two cities" or "double city," indicating its possible structure or significance in ancient times.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 14:5 · Kiriathaim is first mentioned in the context of the battle of the kings during the time of Abraham. It is listed as one of the places where the Rephaim were defeated by Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him: "In the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer and the kings with him came and defeated the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim, the Zuzim in Ham, the Emim in Shaveh-kiriathaim." 2. Numbers 32:37 · The city is later mentioned as part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Reuben when the Israelites settled in the Transjordan region. The Reubenites rebuilt the city: "The Reubenites built up Heshbon, Elealeh, Kiriathaim." 3. Joshua 13:19 · Kiriathaim is again listed among the cities in the territory of Reuben: "Kiriathaim, Sibmah, Zereth-shahar on the hill in the valley." 4. Jeremiah 48:1, 23 · The prophet Jeremiah prophesies against Moab, mentioning Kiriathaim as one of the cities that will face judgment: "Concerning Moab: This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Woe to Nebo, for it will be laid waste. Kiriathaim will be captured; the fortress will be shattered and disgraced.'" 5. Ezekiel 25:9 · The prophet Ezekiel also speaks of judgment against Moab, including Kiriathaim: "Therefore I will expose the flank of Moab, beginning with its frontier cities—Beth-jeshimoth, Baal-meon, and Kiriathaim—the glory of the land." Historical and Geographical Context: Kiriathaim was located in the region east of the Jordan River, within the territory traditionally associated with the Moabites. Its mention alongside other significant cities in Moab suggests it was an important location, possibly serving as a fortified city or a center of administration. The city's association with both Moab and the tribe of Reuben reflects the complex history of territorial control in the Transjordan area. The Reubenites' rebuilding of Kiriathaim indicates its strategic or economic importance during the period of Israelite settlement. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Kiriathaim remains uncertain, it is generally believed to be in the modern-day region of Jordan. Some scholars suggest it may be identified with the site of Qaryatein or another nearby location. Archaeological evidence from the region provides insights into the broader cultural and historical context of the area during biblical times. Theological Significance: Kiriathaim's repeated mention in prophetic literature underscores its role as a symbol of divine judgment against Moab. The prophecies of Jeremiah and Ezekiel highlight the city's vulnerability to God's wrath, serving as a reminder of the consequences of idolatry and opposition to God's people. In summary, Kiriathaim is a significant biblical location with historical, geographical, and theological importance. Its presence in the biblical narrative reflects the dynamic history of the Transjordan region and the unfolding of God's purposes in the ancient Near East. Concordance Kiriatha'im (5 Occurrences)Numbers 32:37 1 Chronicles 6:76 Jeremiah 48:1 Jeremiah 48:23 Ezekiel 25:9 Thesaurus Kiriatha'im (5 Occurrences)Kiriatha'im. Kiriathaim, Kiriatha'im. Kir'iatha'im . Multi-Version Concordance Kiriatha'im (5 Occurrences). Numbers 32:37 And the ... /k/kiriatha'im.htm - 7k Sha'veh-kiriatha'im (1 Occurrence) Kiriathaim (7 Occurrences) Kir'iatha'im (1 Occurrence) Shaveh-kiriathaim (1 Occurrence) Shaveh-kirjathaim (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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