Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Qir-Hareseth, also known as Kir-Hareseth or Kir-Haraseth, is a significant city mentioned in the Old Testament. It is primarily associated with the Moabites, an ancient people who lived in the region east of the Dead Sea. The city plays a crucial role in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of conflict between Moab and Israel. Biblical References: Qir-Hareseth is mentioned in several passages in the Bible, most notably in the books of 2 Kings and Isaiah. In 2 Kings 3:25, during the campaign against Moab led by the kings of Israel, Judah, and Edom, the city is described as a stronghold of Moab: "They destroyed the cities, and each man threw a stone into every good field until it was covered. They stopped up all the springs and cut down every good tree. Only the stones of Kir-Hareseth were left, but the slingers surrounded it and attacked it." In Isaiah 16:7, the prophet Isaiah laments the destruction of Moab and specifically mentions Qir-Hareseth: "Therefore let Moab wail; let them wail together for Moab. Lament and grieve for the raisin cakes of Kir-Hareseth." Historical and Geographical Context: Qir-Hareseth was a fortified city, serving as a key defensive and administrative center for the Moabites. Its strategic location made it a focal point during military campaigns. The city is often identified with the modern site of Kerak, located in present-day Jordan. This identification is supported by its geographical position and archaeological findings that align with the biblical descriptions. Cultural and Religious Significance: As a Moabite city, Qir-Hareseth was part of a culture that worshiped Chemosh, the national deity of Moab. The Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and had a complex relationship with the Israelites, marked by periods of both conflict and coexistence. The biblical narrative often highlights the tension between the worship of Yahweh by the Israelites and the pagan practices of neighboring nations like Moab. Theological Implications: The destruction of Qir-Hareseth, as recounted in the Bible, serves as a testament to the fulfillment of divine judgment against Moab. The prophets, including Isaiah and Jeremiah, frequently spoke of God's sovereignty over the nations and His ability to raise up and bring down kingdoms according to His purposes. The fall of Qir-Hareseth is a reminder of the consequences of idolatry and rebellion against God. Conclusion: Qir-Hareseth remains a significant site in biblical history, illustrating the complex interactions between Israel and its neighbors. Its mention in the scriptures underscores the themes of divine judgment, the futility of idolatry, and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all nations. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia QIR-HARESETH; KIR-HERESkur-har'-seth, -ha-re'-seth> (qir-charesh, Isaiah 16:7; in 2 Kings 3:25 the King James Version reads Kir-haraseth (pausal form)); (qir cheres, Jeremiah 48:31, 36; in Isaiah 16:11 the King James Version reads Kir-haresh (pausal form)): Modern scholars unanimously identify this city with Kir of Moab. In Jehoram's invasion of Moab it alone withstood his attack; and on the city wall the king of Moab sacrificed his son (2 Kings 3:25). It was obviously the capital, i.e. Kir Moab. The name is generally taken to mean "city of the sun." Cheyne, however, points out (EB, under the word): Thesaurus Qirhareseth... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia QIR-HARESETH; KIR-HERES. kur-har'-seth, -ha-re'-seth> (qir-charesh, Isaiah 16:7; in 2 Kings 3:25 ... /q/qirhareseth.htm - 7k Qir-hareseth Python (6 Occurrences) Qoph (1 Occurrence) Kirhareseth (2 Occurrences) Kir-hareseth (3 Occurrences) Kir-heres (3 Occurrences) Kirheres (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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