Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Kirjath-jearim" is derived from Hebrew, meaning "City of Forests" or "City of Woods." It is also referred to as "Kiriath-jearim" in some translations. The name reflects the geographical characteristics of the area, which was likely wooded or forested.Biblical References: Kirjath-jearim is mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament. It is first introduced in the context of the boundary descriptions of the tribes of Israel. In Joshua 15:9, it is listed as part of the border of the tribe of Judah: "Then the border extended from the top of the mountain to the spring of the waters of Nephtoah, and proceeded to the cities of Mount Ephron. Then it curved around to Baalah (that is, Kiriath-jearim)." Similarly, in Joshua 18:14-15, it is mentioned as part of the boundary of the tribe of Benjamin. Historical Significance: Kirjath-jearim holds significant historical and religious importance due to its association with the Ark of the Covenant. After the Ark was returned by the Philistines, it was brought to the house of Abinadab in Kirjath-jearim, where it remained for twenty years. 1 Samuel 7:1-2 states, "Then the men of Kiriath-jearim came and took up the ark of the LORD. They brought it into the house of Abinadab on the hill and consecrated his son Eleazar to guard the ark of the LORD. And from that day a long time passed, twenty years in all, and the house of Israel lamented after the LORD." Religious Significance: The presence of the Ark in Kirjath-jearim underscores its religious significance. The Ark, representing God's covenant and presence among His people, made Kirjath-jearim a focal point of Israelite worship during this period. The Ark's stay in Kirjath-jearim is a testament to the city's role as a temporary spiritual center before the Ark was eventually moved to Jerusalem by King David (2 Samuel 6:2-3). Geographical Location: Kirjath-jearim is located in the hill country of Judah, near the border with Benjamin. It is identified with the modern site of Deir el-Azar, approximately 8 miles west of Jerusalem. Its strategic location made it an important city in the ancient landscape of Israel. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: Archaeological excavations in the area have provided insights into the city's historical context. The findings suggest that Kirjath-jearim was a significant settlement during the Iron Age, with evidence of fortifications and structures that align with its biblical description as a city of importance. Other Biblical Mentions: Kirjath-jearim is also mentioned in the context of the return of the exiles. In Ezra 2:25 and Nehemiah 7:29, it is listed among the cities whose inhabitants returned from Babylonian exile, indicating its continued habitation and significance in the post-exilic period. Conclusion: Kirjath-jearim's role in biblical history, particularly as the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant, highlights its importance in the religious and cultural narrative of ancient Israel. Its strategic location and archaeological findings further underscore its significance as a historical and spiritual landmark. Concordance Kirjah-jearim (1 Occurrence)Joshua 18:15 Thesaurus Kirjah-jearim (1 Occurrence)Kirjah-jearim. Kirioth, Kirjah-jearim. Kirjath . Multi-Version Concordance Kirjah-jearim (1 Occurrence). Joshua 18:15 ... /k/kirjah-jearim.htm - 6k Kirioth (1 Occurrence) Kirjath (1 Occurrence) Resources Who was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Samuel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who were Nadab and Abihu? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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