Etymology and Meaning:
Kirjath-arim, also known as Kiriath-jearim, is a name that translates to "City of Forests" or "City of Woods." The name reflects the geographical and topographical features of the area, which was likely wooded or forested.

Biblical References and Significance:
Kirjath-arim is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of its role in the history of Israel and its association with the Ark of the Covenant.

1. Location and Tribal Allocation:
Kirjath-arim was located in the territory of the tribe of Judah, as indicated in the Book of Joshua. It is listed among the cities in the hill country of Judah:
"Kiriath-jearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth—fourteen cities, along with their villages." (Joshua 18:28)

2. The Ark of the Covenant:
One of the most significant events associated with Kirjath-arim is its role as the temporary resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. After the Ark was returned by the Philistines, it was brought to the house of Abinadab in Kirjath-arim, where it remained for many years:
"So the men of Kiriath-jearim came for the Ark of the LORD and took it into Abinadab’s house on the hill. And they consecrated his son Eleazar to guard the Ark of the LORD." (1 Samuel 7:1)

The Ark stayed there until King David decided to bring it to Jerusalem, marking a significant moment in Israel's religious history.

3. Historical and Religious Context:
Kirjath-arim's role as the custodian of the Ark highlights its importance in the religious life of Israel. The presence of the Ark signified God's covenant and presence among His people, making Kirjath-arim a place of spiritual significance during this period.

4. Prophetic and Historical Mentions:
The city is also mentioned in the context of prophetic and historical narratives. In the Book of Jeremiah, it is referred to as a landmark in the journey of the exiles returning from Babylon:
"Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’" (Jeremiah 6:16)

Archaeological and Geographical Insights:
Modern-day identification of Kirjath-arim is often associated with the site of Deir el-Azar, located west of Jerusalem. Archaeological findings in the area have provided insights into the settlement patterns and historical context of the region during the biblical period.

Theological Implications:
Kirjath-arim serves as a reminder of the centrality of God's presence and covenant in the life of Israel. The city's association with the Ark underscores the importance of obedience and reverence towards God, as well as the significance of sacred spaces in the worship and communal life of the Israelites.

Conclusion:
While Kirjath-arim may not be as frequently mentioned as other biblical cities, its role in the narrative of the Ark of the Covenant and its place within the tribal allotments of Judah highlight its importance in the biblical history of Israel.Kirjath-Arim

city of those who watch

7157. Qiryath Yearim -- "city of forests," a city given to Judah ...
... Kiriath-jearim (18). Kirjath, Kirjath-jearim, Kirjath-arim. Or (Jer.
26:20) with the article interposed; or (Josh. 18:28) simply ...
/hebrew/7157.htm - 6kKirjatharim (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kirjatharim (1 Occurrence). Ezra 2:25 The children of
Kirjatharim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred and forty and three. (KJV). ...
/k/kirjatharim.htm - 6k

Kirjath-arim (1 Occurrence)
Kirjath-arim. Kirjatharim, Kirjath-arim. Kirjathbaal . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(DBY WBS YLT). Kirjatharim, Kirjath-arim. Kirjathbaal . Reference Bible
/k/kirjath-arim.htm - 6k

Kirjath-arba (8 Occurrences)
Kirjath-arba. Kirjatharba, Kirjath-arba. Kirjatharim . Easton's Bible Dictionary ...
Kirjatharba, Kirjath-arba. Kirjatharim . Reference Bible.
/k/kirjath-arba.htm - 9k

Kirjathbaal (2 Occurrences)

/k/kirjathbaal.htm - 7k

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