Topical Encyclopedia Kerioth-Hezron is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the tribal allotments of Judah. It is identified as a city in the southern part of the territory assigned to the tribe of Judah. The name "Kerioth-Hezron" is sometimes simply referred to as "Kerioth," and it is associated with the lineage of Caleb, a prominent figure in the tribe of Judah.Biblical References: Kerioth-Hezron is mentioned in the Book of Joshua, which details the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. In Joshua 15:25, the city is listed among the towns in the southern region of Judah: "Hazor, Hadattah, Kerioth-Hezron (that is, Hazor)." The mention of Kerioth-Hezron in this context suggests its significance as part of the inheritance given to the descendants of Judah, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites regarding the land of Canaan. Historical and Geographical Context: Kerioth-Hezron is believed to have been located in the Negev, a desert region in the southern part of ancient Israel. The Negev was known for its arid climate and challenging living conditions, yet it was a crucial area for the tribe of Judah, providing a buffer zone against southern incursions and serving as a grazing area for livestock. The identification of Kerioth-Hezron with Hazor in the biblical text has led to some debate among scholars. It is important to distinguish this Hazor from the more famous city of Hazor in the north of Israel, which was a significant Canaanite city-state. The Hazor associated with Kerioth-Hezron is a different location, likely a smaller settlement within the territory of Judah. Cultural and Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Kerioth-Hezron in the tribal allotments underscores the importance of land inheritance in the biblical narrative. The division of the land among the tribes of Israel was a tangible expression of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and it represented the fulfillment of His promises to the patriarchs. The allocation of cities like Kerioth-Hezron to the tribe of Judah also highlights the tribe's prominence in Israel's history. Judah was the tribe from which King David emerged, and it held a central role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, from the line of David. Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence for Kerioth-Hezron is limited, the broader region of the Negev has been the subject of numerous excavations. These studies have provided insights into the lifestyle and challenges faced by the inhabitants of this arid region during the biblical period. The presence of ancient settlements, fortifications, and agricultural installations in the Negev attests to the strategic and economic importance of this area for the tribe of Judah. In summary, Kerioth-Hezron serves as a testament to the historical and theological richness of the biblical narrative, illustrating the deep connection between the people of Israel and the land promised to them by God. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KERIOTH-HEZRONke'-ri-oth-hez'-ron (qeriyoth chetsron; Joshua 15:25 says, "The same is Hazor"; the King James Version "Kerioth and Hezron which is Hazor"): One of the cities in the "south" of Judah. Robinson (BR, II, 101) identifies it with the ruined site of Kuryatain, 4 1/2 miles North of Tell `Arad. It has been suggested that Kerioth was the birth place of JUDAS ISCARIOT (which see). Compare KERIOTH, 2. Thesaurus Keriothhezron/k/keriothhezron.htm - 6k Ker'i-oth (1 Occurrence) Kerioth-hezron (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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