Overview:
Kirjath-Jearim, also known as Kiriath-Jearim, is a significant biblical city located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. The name "Kirjath-Jearim" translates to "City of Forests" or "City of Woods," reflecting its geographical and environmental characteristics. This city holds historical and religious importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the Ark of the Covenant.

Biblical References:
Kirjath-Jearim is mentioned multiple times throughout the Old Testament. It is first introduced in the context of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. In Joshua 15:9, the city is listed as part of the boundary of the tribe of Judah: "Then the boundary extended from the top of the mountain to the spring of the waters of Nephtoah, and proceeded to the cities of Mount Ephron, and went down to Baalah (that is, Kiriath-Jearim)."

The city is also noted in the Book of Joshua as one of the cities given to the tribe of Judah, as seen in Joshua 15:60: "Kiriath-Baal (that is, Kiriath-Jearim) and Rabbah—two cities, along with their villages."

The Ark of the Covenant:
Kirjath-Jearim is most famously associated 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 a significant period. 1 Samuel 7:1-2 records this event: "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 it was a long time, some twenty years, that the ark remained at Kiriath-Jearim, and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD."

This period marked a time of spiritual renewal and longing for the presence of God among the Israelites. The Ark's stay in Kirjath-Jearim underscores the city's role as a temporary sanctuary for this sacred object until King David eventually moved it to Jerusalem.

Historical and Archaeological Significance:
Kirjath-Jearim is identified with the modern site of Deir el-Azar, located west of Jerusalem. Archaeological excavations have provided insights into the city's historical context, revealing its strategic importance and its role in the broader narrative of Israel's history.

Religious and Cultural Impact:
The presence of the Ark in Kirjath-Jearim highlights the city's religious significance. It served as a focal point for Israel's worship and a symbol of God's covenant with His people. The city's association with the Ark also emphasizes the themes of reverence, holiness, and the centrality of God's presence in the life of Israel.

Conclusion:
Kirjath-Jearim stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and faith. Its role in safeguarding the Ark of the Covenant and its inclusion in the tribal allotment of Judah underscore its importance in the biblical narrative. Through its account, Kirjath-Jearim continues to inspire reflection on the themes of divine presence, covenant, and worship.Joshua 15:9,60
And the border was drawn from the top of the hill to the fountain of the water of Nephtoah, and went out to the cities of mount Ephron; and the border was drawn to Baalah, which is Kirjathjearim:
Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 18:14
And the border was drawn there, and compassed the corner of the sea southward, from the hill that lies before Bethhoron southward; and the goings out thereof were at Kirjathbaal, which is Kirjathjearim, a city of the children of Judah: this was the west quarter.
Nave's Topical Index

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... assigned to each tribe his allotted portion of ... for a lengthened period, any extension
of territory. ... Beeroth, Kirjath-Jearim, Ajalon, Gezer, and the cities of ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... the siege and destruction of Jerusalem"The last convulsions of Judah and the ... Each
one of these tribes occupied its own allotted territory, the limits of ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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