Topical Encyclopedia Kiriatharim, also known as Kiriath-jearim, is a significant location in biblical history, primarily mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Kiriatharim" translates to "City of Forests" or "City of Woods," reflecting its geographical and topographical features. It is situated in the tribal territory of Judah, near the border with Benjamin, and is identified with the modern site of Deir el-Azar, approximately 8 miles west of Jerusalem.Biblical References: 1. Ark of the Covenant: Kiriatharim is most notably recognized as the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant after it was returned by the Philistines. Following its capture and subsequent return due to divine plagues, the Ark was brought to the house of Abinadab in Kiriatharim, where it remained for twenty years. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 7:1-2: "Then the men of Kiriath-jearim came and took the ark of the LORD and brought it into the house of Abinadab on the hill. And they consecrated his son Eleazar to guard the ark of the LORD. From that day a long time passed, twenty years in all, and the ark of the LORD was at Kiriath-jearim, and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD." 2. David's Retrieval of the Ark: King David later retrieved the Ark from Kiriatharim to bring it to Jerusalem, an event marked by great celebration and worship. This is detailed in 1 Chronicles 13:5-6: "So David assembled all the Israelites, from the Shihor River in Egypt to Lebo-hamath, to bring the ark of God from Kiriath-jearim. And David and all Israel went up to Baalah of Judah (that is, Kiriath-jearim) to bring up from there the ark of God the LORD, who is enthroned between the cherubim—the ark that is called by the Name." 3. Tribal Allocation: Kiriatharim was allocated to the tribe of Judah, as mentioned in Joshua 15:9, and later became a Levitical city, as noted in Joshua 21:9-10: "From the tribe of Judah and the tribe of Simeon, they gave these cities by name, which were designated for the descendants of Aaron from the Kohathite clans of the Levites, because the first lot fell to them." 4. Historical Significance: The city is also mentioned in the context of the return of the exiles from Babylon, as recorded in Ezra 2:25 and Nehemiah 7:29, indicating its continued habitation and importance during the post-exilic period. Theological Significance: Kiriatharim holds theological significance as a symbol of God's presence and the centrality of worship in Israel's life. The Ark's presence in Kiriatharim for two decades underscores a period of spiritual reflection and renewal for the Israelites, as they lamented and sought after the LORD. The eventual transfer of the Ark to Jerusalem by King David marks a pivotal moment in establishing Jerusalem as the spiritual and political center of Israel, foreshadowing the future construction of the Temple by Solomon. Archaeological Insights: Modern archaeological efforts have sought to uncover the historical layers of Kiriatharim, providing insights into its role and significance during various periods of Israel's history. Excavations have revealed structures and artifacts that align with biblical accounts, offering a tangible connection to the narratives described in Scripture. Kiriatharim remains a testament to the enduring legacy of biblical history, reflecting the dynamic interplay between divine providence and human agency in the unfolding account of God's people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-ARIMkir-i-ath-a'-rim (Ezra 2:25). Thesaurus KiriatharimKiriatharim. Kir'iath-ar'ba, Kiriatharim. Kir'iathar'im . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ... See KIRIATH-JEARIM. Kir'iath-ar'ba, Kiriatharim. Kir'iathar'im ... /k/kiriatharim.htm - 6k Kir'iath-ar'ba (9 Occurrences) Kir'iathar'im (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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