Overview:
Kirioth, sometimes referred to as Kerioth, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is primarily recognized as a city in the territory of Moab and is also associated with a figure in the New Testament. The name "Kirioth" is derived from the Hebrew word "qiryah," meaning "cities" or "towns," suggesting a place of settlement or a group of towns.

Biblical References:

1. Old Testament:
· Jeremiah 48:24, 41 (BSB): Kirioth is mentioned in the context of the judgment pronounced against Moab. Jeremiah prophesies the destruction of Moab, including its cities, and specifically names Kirioth as one of the places that will face devastation. "Kerioth has been captured, and the strongholds have been seized. In that day the hearts of Moab’s warriors will be like the heart of a woman in labor." (Jeremiah 48:41, BSB)
· Amos 2:2 (BSB): The prophet Amos also speaks of the judgment against Moab, indicating that Kirioth will be consumed by fire. "So I will send fire upon Moab, and it will consume the citadels of Kerioth; Moab will die in tumult, with a war cry and the blast of the trumpet." (Amos 2:2, BSB)

2. New Testament:
· Judas Iscariot: The name "Iscariot" is often thought to be derived from "Ish Kerioth," meaning "man of Kerioth." This suggests that Judas, the disciple who betrayed Jesus, may have been from Kirioth. This connection, while not explicitly stated in the Bible, is a traditional interpretation that links Judas to this location.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Kirioth is identified as a city within the region of Moab, an area located east of the Dead Sea. Moab was a frequent subject of prophetic oracles due to its tumultuous relationship with Israel. The city of Kirioth, like other Moabite cities, was known for its fortifications and strategic importance. The prophetic declarations against Kirioth highlight the broader theme of divine judgment against nations that opposed Israel.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of Kirioth has not been definitively identified, it is generally believed to have been situated in the southern part of modern-day Jordan. Archaeological efforts in the region have sought to uncover remnants of Moabite civilization, providing insights into the culture and history of the area during biblical times.

Theological Significance:
The mention of Kirioth in the prophetic books underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and justice. The prophecies against Moab, including Kirioth, serve as a reminder of the consequences of pride and opposition to God's people. The potential link to Judas Iscariot adds a layer of complexity, as it ties the Old Testament location to a pivotal figure in the New Testament narrative of Jesus' betrayal.

Conclusion:
Kirioth remains a significant yet enigmatic location within biblical history. Its mention in the context of divine judgment against Moab and its possible connection to Judas Iscariot highlight its importance in the biblical narrative. The study of Kirioth offers valuable insights into the historical and theological dimensions of the Bible.Kirioth

same as Kerioth

Kirioth

(two cities), a place in Moab the palaces of which were threatened by Amos with destruction by fire, (Amos 2:2) unless indeed the word means simply "the cities," which is probably the case also in (Jeremiah 48:4)

7152. Qeriyyoth -- a city in Judah, also a city in Moab
... Kerioth, Kirioth. Plural of qiryah; buildings; Kerioth, the name of two places in
Palestine -- Kerioth, Kirioth. see HEBREW qiryah. 7151, 7152. ...
/hebrew/7152.htm - 6kKirioth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kirioth (1 Occurrence). Amos 2:2 But I will send
a fire upon Moab, and it shall devour the palaces of Kirioth...
/k/kirioth.htm - 6k

Kir'iath-se'pher (4 Occurrences)
Kir'iath-se'pher. Kiriath-sepher, Kir'iath-se'pher. Kirioth . Multi-Version
Concordance ... Kiriath-sepher, Kir'iath-se'pher. Kirioth . Reference Bible.
/k/kir'iath-se'pher.htm - 7k

Kirjah-jearim (1 Occurrence)
Kirjah-jearim. Kirioth, Kirjah-jearim. Kirjath . Multi-Version Concordance
Kirjah-jearim (1 Occurrence). ... Kirioth, Kirjah-jearim. Kirjath . Reference Bible
/k/kirjah-jearim.htm - 6k

Kerioth (4 Occurrences)
... Hebron. (see HAZOR ). (2.) A city of Moab (Jeremiah 48:24, 41), called Kirioth
(Amos 2:2). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. KERIOTH. ...
/k/kerioth.htm - 9k

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