Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Kirjath-sannah, also known as Kiriath-sannah, is a biblical city whose name is often interpreted to mean "City of the Book" or "City of Instruction." The name reflects a possible connection to learning or written records, although the exact reason for this designation remains a subject of scholarly discussion. Biblical References: Kirjath-sannah is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. It is identified as one of the cities in the hill country of Judah. In Joshua 15:49, the Berean Standard Bible states: "Dannah, Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir)." This verse indicates that Kirjath-sannah is synonymous with Debir, another name for the city. Historical and Geographical Context: Kirjath-sannah/Debir was located in the southern part of the tribal territory of Judah. The city is often associated with the region's ancient Canaanite culture before the Israelite conquest. It was one of the cities captured by Joshua during the Israelite campaign to take possession of the Promised Land. The strategic location of Kirjath-sannah in the hill country made it a significant site for both military and cultural reasons. Conquest and Allocation: The conquest of Kirjath-sannah is part of the broader narrative of the Israelite settlement in Canaan. Joshua 10:38-39 recounts the capture of Debir: "Then Joshua and all Israel with him turned back to Debir and fought against it. And they captured it and its king and all its villages. They struck them down with the sword and completely destroyed all the people, leaving no survivors. And Joshua did to Debir and its king as he had done to Hebron and to Libnah and its king." Following its conquest, Kirjath-sannah was allocated to the tribe of Judah as part of their inheritance in the land. The city's inclusion in the list of Judahite cities underscores its importance within the tribal allotment. Cultural and Religious Significance: The association of Kirjath-sannah with the term "City of the Book" suggests a place of learning or religious significance, possibly indicating the presence of scribes or a center for instruction. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of the importance of the written word and instruction in the life of the Israelite community. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Kirjath-sannah/Debir has been debated, some scholars and archaeologists have proposed sites such as Khirbet Rabud or Tell Beit Mirsim as possible locations. Excavations in these areas have revealed artifacts and structures that provide insights into the Canaanite and Israelite periods, offering a glimpse into the city's historical context. Theological Implications: The narrative of Kirjath-sannah's conquest and integration into Israelite territory reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the land of Canaan. It serves as a testament to the divine guidance and support experienced by the Israelites as they established themselves in the Promised Land. The city's mention in the biblical text highlights the continuity of God's covenantal relationship with His people and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through history. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Kirjath-Sannahcity of enmity, or of a blackberry bush Easton's Bible Dictionary City of the sannah; i.e., of the palm(?), Joshua 15:49; the same as Kirjath-sepher (15:16; Judges 1:11) and Debir (q.v.), a Canaanitish royal city included in Judah (Joshua 10:38; 15:49), and probably the chief seat of learning among the Hittites. It was about 12 miles to the south-west of Hebron. Strong's Hebrew 7158. Qiryath Sannah -- "city of writing," a city in Judah... NASB Word Usage Kiriath-sannah (1), Kiriath-sepher (4). Kirjath-sannah, Kirjath-sepher. Or Qiryath Cepher {keer-yath' say-fer}; from ... /hebrew/7158.htm - 6k Thesaurus Kirjathsannah (1 Occurrence)... Hebron. Multi-Version Concordance Kirjathsannah (1 Occurrence). Joshua 15:49 And Dannah, and Kirjathsannah, which is Debir, (KJV). ... /k/kirjathsannah.htm - 7k Kirjath-sannah (1 Occurrence) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kiriathsannah Kirjathsepher (4 Occurrences) Kiriath-sannah (1 Occurrence) Kirjath-sepher (4 Occurrences) Kirjath-sephar (1 Occurrence) Debir (12 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Kirjath-sannah (1 Occurrence)Joshua 15:49 Subtopics Kirjath-Sannah: A City of the Tribe of Judah Related Terms Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) |
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