Etymology and Location:
Kirjathaim, also known as Kiriathaim, is a biblical city whose name means "two cities" or "double city" in Hebrew. It is located in the territory of Moab, east of the Jordan River. The city is mentioned in various biblical texts, indicating its historical and theological significance.

Historical Context:
Kirjathaim is first mentioned in the context of the conquest of the land by the Israelites. It was originally a city of the Rephaim, a group of ancient giants, before being conquered by the Amorites and subsequently by the Israelites. The city was allotted to the tribe of Reuben as part of their inheritance in the Transjordan region (Numbers 32:37).

Biblical References:
1. Numbers 32:37 : "The Reubenites built up Heshbon, Elealeh, and Kiriathaim."
· This verse highlights the settlement of the Reubenites in the city after the conquest of the land.

2. Joshua 13:19 : "Kiriathaim, Sibmah, Zereth-shahar on the hill in the valley."
· The city is listed among the towns in the territory of Reuben.

3. 1 Chronicles 6:78 : "Beyond the Jordan at Jericho, on the east side of the Jordan, they were given from the tribe of Reuben: Bezer in the wilderness, Jahzah, Kedemoth, and Mephaath, together with their pasturelands."
· Although not directly mentioned, Kirjathaim is part of the broader region allocated to the Levites from the tribe of Reuben.

Prophecies Concerning Kirjathaim:
Kirjathaim is notably mentioned in the prophetic literature concerning the judgment of Moab. The prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel prophesied against Moab, including specific references to Kirjathaim, indicating its impending destruction as part of God's judgment against the nation.

1. Jeremiah 48:1 : "Concerning Moab: This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Woe to Nebo, for it will be laid waste. Kiriathaim will be captured; the fortress will be shattered and disgraced.'"
· This prophecy foretells the capture and disgrace of Kirjathaim as part of the divine judgment against Moab.

2. Ezekiel 25:9 : "Therefore I will expose the flank of Moab beginning with its frontier cities—Beth-jeshimoth, Baal-meon, and Kiriathaim—the glory of the land."
· Ezekiel's prophecy emphasizes the exposure and vulnerability of Moab's cities, including Kirjathaim, as a result of God's judgment.

Theological Significance:
The references to Kirjathaim in the context of prophecy highlight the theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's word against nations that oppose His people. The city's mention in the prophetic texts serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over all nations and His ability to bring about His purposes in history.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of ancient Kirjathaim is debated, it is generally associated with the region of modern-day Jordan. Archaeological findings in the area provide insights into the historical context of the city during the biblical period, though definitive identification remains elusive.

Kirjathaim's role in biblical history and prophecy underscores its importance as a symbol of God's dealings with the nations surrounding Israel, serving as a testament to the enduring truth of the biblical narrative.Jeremiah 48:1,23
Against Moab thus said the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Woe to Nebo! for it is spoiled: Kiriathaim is confounded and taken: Misgab is confounded and dismayed.
Nave's Topical Index

Ezekiel 25:9
Therefore, behold, I will open the side of Moab from the cities, from his cities which are on his frontiers, the glory of the country, Bethjeshimoth, Baalmeon, and Kiriathaim,
Nave's Topical Index

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus