Topical Encyclopedia Overview: Kir-haraseth, also known as Kir-hareseth or Kir-heres, is an ancient city mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of Moabite history and prophecy. It served as a significant stronghold and capital for the Moabites, a people often in conflict with the Israelites. The city's name is thought to mean "city of pottery" or "fortress of earthenware," reflecting its possible role as a center for pottery production or its fortified nature. Biblical References: Kir-haraseth is mentioned in several key biblical passages, highlighting its importance in the region and its interactions with Israel and Judah. 1. 2 Kings 3:25 · During the reign of King Jehoram of Israel, Kir-haraseth is noted in the account of the campaign against Moab. The Israelites, along with their allies from Judah and Edom, attacked Moab. The passage states: "They demolished 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 Kir-haraseth was left with its stones, but the slingers surrounded it and attacked it." 2. Isaiah 16:7, 11 · The prophet Isaiah speaks of the lamentation over Moab, specifically mentioning Kir-hareseth: "Therefore let Moab wail; let them wail together for Moab. Lament and grieve for the raisin cakes of Kir-hareseth... My heart laments for Moab like a harp, my inmost being for Kir-hareseth." 3. Jeremiah 48:31, 36 · Similarly, the prophet Jeremiah prophesies against Moab, expressing sorrow for the city: "Therefore I wail for Moab; I cry out for all Moab; I moan for the men of Kir-heres... My heart laments for Moab like a flute; it laments like a flute for the men of Kir-heres, because the wealth they acquired is gone." Historical and Archaeological Context: Kir-haraseth was strategically located in the highlands of Moab, east of the Dead Sea. Its position made it a vital defensive and administrative center for the Moabites. The city's fortifications and its role as a last stronghold during military campaigns underscore its significance. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was known for its pottery, which aligns with the etymology of the city's name. The Moabite culture, as reflected in the Mesha Stele, indicates a society that was both agriculturally prosperous and militarily capable, often clashing with neighboring Israelite and Judean kingdoms. Theological Significance: Kir-haraseth's mention in prophetic literature highlights the themes of judgment and lamentation. The city's fate serves as a symbol of divine retribution against Moab for its pride and opposition to God's people. The prophecies concerning Kir-haraseth emphasize the transient nature of human power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the nations. The biblical narrative surrounding Kir-haraseth also reflects the broader historical tensions between Israel and Moab, illustrating the complex relationships and conflicts in the ancient Near East. The city's endurance and eventual downfall serve as a testament to the fulfillment of prophetic words and the unfolding of God's plan in history. Easton's Bible Dictionary Built fortress, a city and fortress of Moab, the modern Kerak, a small town on the brow of a steep hill about 6 miles from Rabbath-Moab and 10 miles from the Dead Sea; called also Kir-haresh, Kir-hareseth, Kir-heres (Isaiah 16:7, 11; Jeremiah 48:31, 36). After the death of Ahab, Mesha, king of Moab (see MOABITE STONE), threw off allegiance to the king of Israel, and fought successfully for the independence of his kingdom. After this Jehoram, king of Israel, in seeking to regain his supremacy over Moab, entered into an alliance with Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, and with the king of Edom. The three kings led their armies against Mesha, who was driven back to seek refuge in Kir-haraseth. The Moabites were driven to despair. Mesha then took his eldest son, who would have reigned in his stead, and offered him as a burnt-offering on the wall of the fortress in the sight of the allied armies. "There was great indignation against Israel: and they departed from him, and returned to their own land." The invaders evacuated the land of Moab, and Mesha achieved the independence of his country (2 Kings 3:20-27). Strong's Hebrew 7025. Qir Cheres -- "wall of earthenware," a fortified city in ...... Word Usage Kir-hareseth (3), Kir-heres (2). Kir-haraseth, Kir-hareseth, Kir-haresh, Kir-heres. Or (feminine of the latter word) Qiyr ... /hebrew/7025.htm - 6k Thesaurus Kirharaseth (1 Occurrence)... The three kings led their armies against Mesha, who was driven back to seek refuge in Kir-haraseth. ... Multi-Version Concordance Kirharaseth (1 Occurrence). ... /k/kirharaseth.htm - 8k Kir-haraseth (1 Occurrence) Qir-hareseth Qirhareseth Kirhareseth (2 Occurrences) Kir (11 Occurrences) Kirathaim (1 Occurrence) Kir-hareseth (3 Occurrences) Kirhara-seth (1 Occurrence) Resources What is the significance of Damascus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Kir-haraseth (1 Occurrence)2 Kings 3:25 Subtopics Kir-Haraseth: Called Kir of Moab Related Terms |
    |