Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Kiriathbaal, also known as Kiriath-jearim, is a biblical city whose name means "City of Baal" or "City of the Forests." The name reflects its association with Baal, a Canaanite deity, indicating the city's pre-Israelite religious significance. The alternative name, Kiriath-jearim, translates to "City of Forests," suggesting its geographical setting amidst wooded areas. Biblical References Kiriathbaal is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament. In Joshua 15:60, it is listed among the cities in the territory of the tribe of Judah: "Kiriathbaal (that is, Kiriath-jearim) and Rabbah—two cities, along with their villages." This indicates its inclusion within the inheritance of Judah, highlighting its importance in the tribal allotments of the Promised Land. In Joshua 18:14-15, Kiriathbaal is again referenced in the context of the boundary descriptions for the tribe of Benjamin: "The border then curved westward and turned to the south, from the hill that lies to the south of Beth-horon, and ended at Kiriath-baal (that is, Kiriath-jearim), a city of the people of Judah. This was the western side." Historical and Religious Significance Kiriathbaal holds significant historical and religious importance in the biblical narrative. It is notably associated with the Ark of the Covenant. After the Ark was returned by the Philistines, it was brought to Kiriath-jearim and remained there for a considerable period. 1 Samuel 7:1-2 records this event: "Then the men of Kiriath-jearim came and took the ark of the LORD. They brought it into the house of Abinadab on the hill and consecrated his son Eleazar to guard the ark of the LORD. And it was a long time, some twenty years, that the ark remained at Kiriath-jearim, and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD." This prolonged stay of the Ark at Kiriath-jearim underscores the city's role as a temporary religious center for Israel during a tumultuous period. The presence of the Ark would have made Kiriathbaal a focal point for worship and pilgrimage until King David eventually moved the Ark to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:2-3). Archaeological Insights Modern archaeological efforts have identified Kiriath-jearim with the site of Deir el-Azar, located west of Jerusalem. Excavations have revealed evidence of ancient occupation, including fortifications and artifacts that align with the biblical timeline. These findings provide a tangible connection to the biblical narrative and offer insights into the city's role and significance during the Israelite settlement period. Theological Implications The account of Kiriathbaal, particularly its association with the Ark of the Covenant, highlights themes of divine presence and guidance. The Ark's journey to and from Kiriath-jearim reflects God's ongoing relationship with His people, even during times of national distress and spiritual seeking. The city's transformation from a Canaanite religious center to a temporary dwelling place for the Ark symbolizes the broader narrative of Israel's conquest and sanctification of the land. Kiriathbaal serves as a testament to the dynamic interplay between Israel's faith and its historical context, illustrating the enduring significance of sacred spaces in the biblical tradition. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-BAALkir-i-ath-ba'-al Thesaurus Kiriathbaal/k/kiriathbaal.htm - 6k Kiriath-baal (2 Occurrences) Kiriath-arim (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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