Introduction:
Kirjath-Sepher, also known as Debir, is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Kirjath-Sepher" translates to "City of Books" or "City of Scribes," indicating its possible role as a center of learning or record-keeping in ancient times. This city is primarily noted in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan and is associated with the tribe of Judah.

Biblical References:

1. Conquest by Joshua:
Kirjath-Sepher is first mentioned in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. It is listed among the cities captured by Joshua as the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land. The city is located in the hill country of Judah, emphasizing its strategic and cultural importance.

· 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 with the sword and completely destroyed everyone in it; they left no survivors. So Joshua did to Debir and its king as he had done to Hebron and to Libnah and its king."

2. Caleb's Inheritance:
Kirjath-Sepher is also associated with Caleb, one of the faithful spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. As a reward for his faithfulness, Caleb was granted the region of Hebron, and he subsequently sought to capture Kirjath-Sepher. Caleb offered his daughter Achsah in marriage to whoever would successfully capture the city.

· Joshua 15:15-17 : "From there he marched against the inhabitants of Debir (formerly known as Kiriath-sepher). And Caleb said, 'I will give my daughter Achsah in marriage to the one who strikes down and captures Kiriath-sepher.' So Othniel son of Caleb’s brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Achsah to him in marriage."

3. Othniel's Role:
Othniel, who later became the first judge of Israel, played a crucial role in the capture of Kirjath-Sepher. His successful conquest of the city not only secured his marriage to Achsah but also demonstrated his leadership and valor, qualities that would later serve him well as a judge.

· Judges 1:11-13 : "From there they marched against the inhabitants of Debir (formerly known as Kiriath-sepher). And Caleb said, 'I will give my daughter Achsah in marriage to the one who strikes down and captures Kiriath-sepher.' So Othniel son of Caleb’s younger brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Achsah to him in marriage."

Historical and Cultural Context:
Kirjath-Sepher's designation as the "City of Books" suggests it may have been a center of learning or a repository of important records and documents. This aligns with the broader cultural context of Canaan, where cities often served as hubs of administration and education. The city's capture by the Israelites underlines the broader theme of God's faithfulness in delivering the Promised Land to His people, as well as the importance of obedience and courage in fulfilling His commands.

Tribal Allocation:
As part of the tribal inheritance, Kirjath-Sepher was allocated to the tribe of Judah. This allocation reflects the city's geographical location within the territory assigned to Judah and highlights the tribe's role in the early establishment of Israelite society in Canaan.

· Joshua 15:49 : "Dannah, Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir),"

Conclusion:
Kirjath-Sepher, or Debir, stands as a testament to the faithfulness and courage of key biblical figures such as Joshua, Caleb, and Othniel. Its capture and integration into the Israelite territory underscore the fulfillment of God's promises to His people and the establishment of their presence in the land of Canaan.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 15:15,16
And he went up there to the inhabitants of Debir: and the name of Debir before was Kirjathsepher.
Nave's Topical Index

Resources

Who is Caleb in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Othniel? | GotQuestions.org

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