Kerijoth, also referred to as Kerioth, is a location mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament. The name "Kerijoth" is derived from the Hebrew word "קְרִיּוֹת" (Qeriyyoth), which means "cities" or "towns." This term is often associated with a cluster of settlements or a fortified city.

Biblical References:

1. Jeremiah 48:24, 41 (BSB): Kerijoth is mentioned in the context of the judgment pronounced against Moab. Jeremiah 48:24 states, "upon Kerioth, Bozrah, and all the towns of Moab, those far and near." Later, in Jeremiah 48:41, it is written, "Kerioth has been captured, and the strongholds seized. In that day the hearts of Moab’s mighty men will be like the heart of a woman in labor." These passages indicate that Kerijoth was a significant city within Moab, subject to divine judgment due to Moab's pride and idolatry.

2. Amos 2:2 (BSB): The prophet Amos also speaks of Kerijoth in the context of divine retribution against Moab. Amos 2:2 declares, "So I will send fire upon Moab, and it will consume the citadels of Kerioth; Moab will die in the tumult, with a war cry and the blast of the trumpet." This prophecy underscores the impending destruction of Kerijoth as part of God's judgment against Moab for their transgressions.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Kerijoth is traditionally identified with a location in the region of Moab, east of the Dead Sea. The exact site of ancient Kerijoth is not definitively known, but it is often associated with the archaeological site of el-Qaryat, near modern-day Jordan. The city's mention alongside other Moabite cities suggests its importance as a center of population and possibly a hub of political or military activity.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the references to Kerijoth in the prophetic books of Jeremiah and Amos highlight themes of divine justice and the consequences of idolatry and pride. The destruction of Kerijoth serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His prophetic word against nations that oppose His will.

Connection to Judas Iscariot:

Some scholars and theologians have speculated a connection between Kerijoth and Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' twelve apostles. The name "Iscariot" is thought by some to mean "man of Kerioth," suggesting that Judas may have hailed from this region. However, this connection remains speculative and is not definitively supported by biblical or historical evidence.

In summary, Kerijoth is a biblically significant city within Moab, known for its mention in prophetic judgments. Its historical and theological implications continue to be a subject of study and reflection within biblical scholarship.Kerijoth (3 Occurrences)

Jeremiah 48:24
and upon Kerijoth, and upon Bozrah, and upon all the cities of the land of Moab, far and near.
(DBY)

Jeremiah 48:41
Kerijoth is taken, and the strongholds are seized, and at that day the heart of the mighty men of Moab shall be as the heart of a woman in her pangs.
(DBY)

Amos 2:2
And I will send a fire upon Moab, and it shall devour the palaces of Kerijoth; and Moab shall die with tumult, with shouting, and with the sound of the trumpet.
(DBY)

Kerijoth (3 Occurrences)
...Kerijoth (3 Occurrences). Jeremiah 48:24 and upon Kerijoth, and upon Bozrah, and
upon all the cities of the land of Moab, far and near. (DBY). ...
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Kerethites (9 Occurrences)

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Kerioth (4 Occurrences)

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