Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Kiriathsepher, also known as Debir, is a significant city mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Kiriathsepher" is often translated as "City of Books" or "City of Scribes," suggesting a place of learning or record-keeping. The alternative name, Debir, means "sanctuary" or "oracle," indicating its possible religious significance. Biblical References Kiriathsepher is first mentioned in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. In the Book of Joshua, it is listed among the cities captured by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership. Joshua 10:38-39 states, "Then Joshua and all Israel with him turned back to Debir and fought against it. And they captured it and its king and all its villages. They struck them with the sword and completely destroyed everyone in it; they left no survivors. So Joshua did to Debir and its king as he had done to Hebron and to Libnah and its king." The city is also noted in the narrative of Caleb's inheritance. Caleb, a leader from the tribe of Judah, was granted the region of Hebron, and he offered his daughter Achsah in marriage to whoever would capture Kiriathsepher. Othniel, Caleb's nephew, successfully captured the city and thus married Achsah. This account is found in Joshua 15:15-17 : "From there he marched against the inhabitants of Debir (formerly known as Kiriath-sepher). And Caleb said, 'I will give my daughter Achsah in marriage to the one who strikes down and captures Kiriath-sepher.' So Othniel son of Caleb’s brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Achsah to him in marriage." Historical and Archaeological Context Kiriathsepher is believed to have been located in the southern part of the land allotted to the tribe of Judah. Its exact location is debated among scholars, but it is often associated with the archaeological site of Tell Beit Mirsim. Excavations at Tell Beit Mirsim have revealed significant findings from the Bronze and Iron Ages, providing insights into the Canaanite and early Israelite periods. Theological Significance The capture of Kiriathsepher is emblematic of the broader conquest narrative in the Book of Joshua, illustrating the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham. The account of Caleb and Othniel highlights themes of faithfulness, courage, and divine reward. Caleb's unwavering faith and Othniel's bravery serve as examples of obedience to God's commands and the blessings that follow. Cultural and Literary Aspects The narrative of Kiriathsepher is rich with cultural and literary elements. The offering of Achsah as a prize for military valor reflects the customs and values of ancient Near Eastern societies, where marriages often served to solidify alliances and reward heroism. The account also underscores the importance of family lineage and inheritance in Israelite culture. Conclusion While Kiriathsepher is a relatively minor city in the biblical narrative, its mention in the context of conquest and inheritance underscores its role in the unfolding account of Israel's establishment in the Promised Land. The accounts involving Kiriathsepher contribute to the larger themes of faith, obedience, and divine providence that permeate the biblical text. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-SEPHERkir-i-ath-se'-fer (qiryath cepher; translated by many, as if it were Hebrew, as "house of books." Septuagint polis grammaton; the King James Version, Kirjath Sepher; other suggestions have been made: "border-town" (Moore) or "tolltown" (G.A. Smith): In two parallel passages (Joshua 15:15 Judges 1:11 f), it is mentioned as identical with DEBIR (which see), which has been frequently identified with edh-Dhaheriyeh. Sayce would place Kiriath-Sepher to the W. of Gath. See P E F S, 1893, 33-35. Thesaurus Kiriathsepher/k/kiriathsepher.htm - 7k Kiriath-sepher (4 Occurrences) Kir'iath-san'nah (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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