Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Kirjathsannah, also known as Debir, is a biblical city mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Kirjathsannah" is believed to mean "City of the Book" or "City of Instruction," reflecting its possible role as a center of learning or religious instruction. The alternative name, Debir, means "sanctuary" or "oracle," suggesting its significance in religious or cultural contexts. Biblical References Kirjathsannah is referenced in the Book of Joshua. In Joshua 15:49 , it is listed among the cities in the hill country of Judah: "Dannah, Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir)." This passage highlights its location within the tribal allotment of Judah, indicating its importance within the region. Historical and Geographical Context Kirjathsannah/Debir was situated in the hill country of Judah, an area known for its rugged terrain and strategic significance. The city was one of the Canaanite cities conquered by the Israelites during their settlement in the Promised Land. Its capture is detailed in Joshua 10:38-39 : "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 down with the sword and completely destroyed all the people, leaving no survivors. And Joshua did to Debir and its king as he had done to Hebron and to Libnah and its king." Role in Israelite Conquest The conquest of Kirjathsannah/Debir was part of Joshua's southern campaign, which aimed to secure the land for the Israelites. The city's capture demonstrated the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham. The complete destruction of its inhabitants, as described in the biblical narrative, underscores the divine mandate for the Israelites to purify the land from idolatry and pagan practices. Cultural and Religious Significance The dual names of the city, Kirjathsannah and Debir, suggest its cultural and religious importance. As "City of the Book," it may have been a center for learning or religious instruction, possibly housing sacred texts or serving as a place for teaching. As "sanctuary" or "oracle," Debir could have been a site for religious rituals or a place where divine messages were sought. Archaeological Insights While the exact location of Kirjathsannah/Debir remains uncertain, some scholars and archaeologists have proposed sites such as Khirbet Rabud or Tell Beit Mirsim as possible locations. Excavations in these areas have uncovered artifacts and structures that provide insights into the Canaanite and Israelite periods, offering a glimpse into the historical context of the biblical narrative. Legacy and Theological Implications Kirjathsannah/Debir serves as a testament to the Israelites' conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. Its account reflects themes of divine promise, judgment, and the establishment of a covenant community. The city's capture and integration into the tribal lands of Judah highlight the fulfillment of God's promises to His people and the importance of obedience to His commands. Smith's Bible Dictionary Kirjathsannah(city of books). [DEBIR] Easton's Bible Dictionary City of the sannah; i.e., of the palm(?), Joshua 15:49; the same as Kirjath-sepher (15:16; Judges 1:11) and Debir (q.v.), a Canaanitish royal city included in Judah (Joshua 10:38; 15:49), and probably the chief seat of learning among the Hittites. It was about 12 miles to the south-west of Hebron. Thesaurus Kirjathsannah (1 Occurrence)... Hebron. Multi-Version Concordance Kirjathsannah (1 Occurrence). Joshua 15:49 And Dannah, and Kirjathsannah, which is Debir, (KJV). ... /k/kirjathsannah.htm - 7k Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kirjath-sannah (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Kirjathsannah (1 Occurrence)Joshua 15:49 Subtopics Kirjathsannah and Kirhathsepher Related Terms Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) |
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