Topical Encyclopedia Kirjath-Arba, meaning "City of Arba," is an ancient name for the city later known as Hebron, located in the hill country of Judah. This city holds significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative, serving as a key location in the lives of the patriarchs and the history of Israel.Biblical References and Significance Kirjath-Arba is first mentioned in the context of the patriarchs in the Book of Genesis. It is described as the place where Sarah, the wife of Abraham, died and was buried. Genesis 23:2 states, "So Sarah died in Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan, and Abraham went to mourn for Sarah and to weep over her." This passage highlights the city's early association with the patriarch Abraham and his family. The name "Kirjath-Arba" is attributed to Arba, who is described as "the greatest man among the Anakim" (Joshua 14:15). The Anakim were a race of giants mentioned in the Old Testament, and Arba is considered a significant figure among them. This connection underscores the city's ancient roots and its prominence in the region. Conquest and Inheritance Kirjath-Arba's transition to Hebron is marked by its conquest and allocation to the tribe of Judah. In the conquest narratives of the Book of Joshua, Caleb, one of the faithful spies sent by Moses, is granted Hebron as his inheritance. Joshua 14:13-14 records, "Then Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance. So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly." This passage emphasizes the faithfulness of Caleb and the fulfillment of God's promises to those who trust in Him. The city's transition from Kirjath-Arba to Hebron symbolizes the establishment of Israelite control and the faithfulness of God in granting the land to His people. Historical and Theological Context Hebron, formerly Kirjath-Arba, becomes a central city in the history of Israel. It is one of the cities of refuge designated in the Mosaic Law (Joshua 20:7) and serves as a Levitical city (Joshua 21:11). Its significance is further highlighted by its role as the first capital of King David's reign over Judah (2 Samuel 2:1-4). Theologically, Kirjath-Arba/Hebron represents God's covenantal faithfulness to the patriarchs and their descendants. It is a tangible reminder of the promises made to Abraham regarding the land and his offspring. The city's enduring presence in the biblical narrative underscores its importance as a site of divine-human interaction and fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Conclusion Kirjath-Arba, as the early name of Hebron, is a testament to the rich history and theological depth of the biblical narrative. Its association with the patriarchs, its conquest and inheritance by Caleb, and its role in the history of Israel highlight its significance as a city of faith, promise, and divine fulfillment. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 23:2And Sarah died in Kirjatharba; the same is Hebron in the land of Canaan: and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah, and to weep for her. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 14:15 Judges 1:10 Library Chapter xxiii The Book of Jubilees The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Resources Who is Caleb in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Anakim / Anakites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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