Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References:Shaveh Kiriathaim is mentioned in the context of the early patriarchal narratives found in the Book of Genesis. Specifically, it appears in Genesis 14:5, which recounts the military campaign of Chedorlaomer and his allied kings. The Berean Standard Bible states: "In the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him went out and defeated the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim, the Zuzites in Ham, the Emites in Shaveh-kiriathaim." Historical and Geographical Context: Shaveh Kiriathaim is identified as a location in the region of Moab, east of the Jordan River. The name "Kiriathaim" suggests a dual city or a city with two parts, as "Kiriath" means "city" in Hebrew, and the suffix "-aim" indicates duality. The prefix "Shaveh" is often interpreted as "plain" or "valley," suggesting that Shaveh Kiriathaim was situated in a valley or plain area. The mention of Shaveh Kiriathaim in Genesis 14 places it within the broader narrative of the "War of the Kings," where a coalition of Mesopotamian kings, led by Chedorlaomer, conducted a campaign against various peoples and cities in the region. The Emites, who were defeated at Shaveh Kiriathaim, are described elsewhere in the Bible as a people of great stature, akin to the Anakim (Deuteronomy 2:10-11). Theological Significance: The account of Shaveh Kiriathaim in Genesis 14 is part of a larger narrative that underscores God's providential care and protection over Abram (later Abraham) and his family. The defeat of the Emites and other peoples by Chedorlaomer's coalition sets the stage for Abram's subsequent rescue of his nephew Lot, who had been taken captive during the conflict. This event highlights Abram's role as a man of faith and action, who trusts in God's promises and acts courageously to deliver his kin. Theologically, the narrative of Shaveh Kiriathaim and the surrounding events illustrate the theme of divine sovereignty over the nations. Despite the apparent power and might of earthly kings and their armies, the ultimate outcome of history is directed by God's will. The account also foreshadows the future inheritance of the land by Abram's descendants, as God had promised him. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Shaveh Kiriathaim remains uncertain, it is generally associated with the region of Moab, which is modern-day Jordan. Archaeological evidence in the area has provided insights into the ancient cultures and peoples that inhabited the region during the time of the patriarchs. However, specific identification of Shaveh Kiriathaim with a known archaeological site has yet to be conclusively established. Cultural and Historical Impact: The mention of Shaveh Kiriathaim in the biblical narrative contributes to our understanding of the geopolitical landscape during the time of the patriarchs. It reflects the complex interactions between various peoples and city-states in the ancient Near East. The account also serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power and the enduring faithfulness of God to His covenant promises. Easton's Bible Dictionary Plain of Kirja-thaim where Chedorlaomer defeated the Emims, the original inhabitants (Genesis 14:5). Now Kureiyat, north of Dibon, in the land of Moab. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHAVEH-KIRIATHAIMsha'-ve-kir-ya-tha'-im (shaweh qiryathayim; en Saue te polei): Here Chedorlaomer is said to have defeated the Emim (Genesis 14:5). the Revised Version margin reads "the plain of Kiriathaim." If this rendering is right, we must look for the place in the neighborhood of Kiriathaim of Moab (Jeremiah 48:1, etc.), which is probably represented today by el-Qareiyat, about 7 miles to the North of Dibon. Thesaurus Shavehkiriathaim/s/shavehkiriathaim.htm - 7k Shaveh (2 Occurrences) Shaveh-kiriathaim (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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