Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Kir'iath-san'nah is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Kir'iath-san'nah" is often understood to mean "City of the Book" or "City of Instruction," reflecting its possible role as a center of learning or record-keeping in ancient times. The name is sometimes associated with the Hebrew word for "book" or "instruction," which is "sefer." Biblical References Kir'iath-san'nah is referenced in the Book of Joshua. In Joshua 15:49, it is listed among the cities in the hill country of Judah: "And Dannah, and Kir'iath-san'nah (that is, Debir)." . This verse identifies Kir'iath-san'nah with Debir, suggesting that they are the same location or that Kir'iath-san'nah is an alternate name for Debir. Historical and Geographical Context Kir'iath-san'nah, identified with Debir, was located in the southern part of the land allotted to the tribe of Judah. The city was situated in the hill country, an area characterized by its rugged terrain and strategic importance. The region was known for its fortified cities, which played a crucial role in the defense and administration of the tribal territories. Role in Israelite Conquest The city of Debir, or Kir'iath-san'nah, holds significance in the narrative of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. According to the biblical account, Joshua led the Israelites in a campaign to capture the city. In Joshua 10:38-39, it is recorded: "Then Joshua and all Israel with him turned back to Debir and fought against it. And they captured it and struck it with the edge of the sword, along with its king and all its villages. They left no survivors. Just as he had done to Hebron, so Joshua did to Debir and its king, and as he had done to Libnah and its king." . This conquest was part of a broader strategy to secure the southern region of Canaan for the Israelites. Cultural and Religious Significance Kir'iath-san'nah, as Debir, may have been a center of learning or religious activity, given its name's association with books or instruction. This suggests that the city could have been a place where records were kept or where religious instruction was given. The capture of such a city would have been significant for the Israelites, not only for its strategic value but also for its potential cultural and religious implications. Archaeological Insights While the exact location of Kir'iath-san'nah/Debir has been a subject of debate among scholars, some suggest it may correspond to the archaeological site of Khirbet Rabud, located southwest of Hebron. Excavations in the area have revealed remains from the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age, which align with the biblical timeline of the Israelite settlement in Canaan. These findings provide valuable insights into the historical context of the biblical narrative. Conclusion Kir'iath-san'nah, identified with Debir, is a city of notable importance in the biblical account of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. Its mention in the Scriptures highlights its strategic, cultural, and possibly religious significance within the tribal territory of Judah. Concordance Kir'iath-san'nah (1 Occurrence)Joshua 15:49 Thesaurus Kir'iath-san'nah (1 Occurrence)Kir'iath-san'nah. Kiriath-sannah, Kir'iath-san'nah. Kiriathsepher . Multi-Version Concordance Kir'iath-san'nah (1 Occurrence). Joshua ... /k/kir'iath-san'nah.htm - 6k Kiriath-sannah (1 Occurrence) Kiriathsepher Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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