Kir'iath-se'pher
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Etymology and Meaning
Kir'iath-se'pher, often translated as "City of Books" or "City of Scribes," is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name suggests a place associated with learning or record-keeping, which may indicate its importance as a cultural or administrative center in ancient times.

Biblical References
Kir'iath-se'pher is referenced in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. It is mentioned in the Book of Joshua and the Book of Judges, highlighting its role in the territorial allotments and military campaigns of the Israelites.

In Joshua 15:15-16 , it is recorded: "From there he marched against the inhabitants of Debir (formerly known as Kiriath-sepher). And Caleb said, 'To the man who strikes down Kiriath-sepher and captures it, I will give my daughter Acsah in marriage.'" This passage underscores the strategic importance of Kir'iath-se'pher during the conquest, as well as Caleb's leadership and the practice of rewarding military valor.

Similarly, Judges 1:11-12 recounts: "From there they marched against the inhabitants of Debir (formerly known as Kiriath-sepher). And Caleb said, 'To the man who strikes down Kiriath-sepher and captures it, I will give my daughter Acsah in marriage.'" This repetition in Judges emphasizes the continuity of the narrative and the significance of the city's capture.

Historical and Archaeological Context
Kir'iath-se'pher is identified with the ancient city of Debir, which is believed to be located in the Judean hills. The exact location is debated among scholars, with some identifying it with the archaeological site of Tell Beit Mirsim. Excavations in this area have revealed evidence of a significant Canaanite city, which aligns with the biblical description of a fortified settlement.

The capture of Kir'iath-se'pher by the Israelites, led by Caleb, is part of the broader narrative of the conquest of Canaan. This event illustrates the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as well as the role of faith and obedience in achieving victory.

Theological Significance
Kir'iath-se'pher's mention in the Bible highlights themes of faith, leadership, and divine providence. Caleb's offer of his daughter Acsah as a reward for capturing the city reflects the cultural practices of the time and underscores the importance of familial alliances in Israelite society.

The narrative also illustrates the fulfillment of God's promises through human agency. Caleb's faith and determination serve as an example of trust in God's provision and the importance of courage in the face of challenges. The capture of Kir'iath-se'pher is a testament to the Israelites' reliance on God's guidance and their commitment to the covenant.

Cultural and Literary Aspects
The account of Kir'iath-se'pher is part of the larger conquest narrative, which serves to establish the historical and theological foundations of Israel's presence in the Promised Land. The account of Caleb's challenge and the subsequent capture of the city is a vivid illustration of the interplay between divine promise and human action.

In the broader biblical narrative, Kir'iath-se'pher represents the transition from Canaanite to Israelite control, symbolizing the establishment of a new order under God's sovereignty. The city's association with books or scribes may also suggest a continuity of knowledge and culture, bridging the Canaanite and Israelite civilizations.
Concordance
Kir'iath-se'pher (4 Occurrences)

Joshua 15:15
And he went up thence against the inhabitants of Debir--now the name of Debir beforetime was Kiriath-sepher.
(See RSV)

Joshua 15:16
And Caleb said: 'He that smiteth Kiriath-sepher, and taketh it, to him will I give Achsah my daughter to wife.'
(See RSV)

Judges 1:11
From there they went against the inhabitants of Debir. The name of Debir was formerly Kir'iath-se'pher.
(DBY RSV)

Judges 1:12
And Caleb said, "He who attacks Kir'iath-se'pher and takes it, I will give him Achsah my daughter as wife."
(DBY RSV)

Thesaurus
Kir'iath-se'pher (4 Occurrences)
Kir'iath-se'pher. Kiriath-sepher, Kir'iath-se'pher. Kirioth .
Multi-Version Concordance Kir'iath-se'pher (4 Occurrences). Joshua ...
/k/kir'iath-se'pher.htm - 7k

Kiriath-sepher (4 Occurrences)
Kiriath-sepher. Kiriathsepher, Kiriath-sepher. Kir'iath-se'pher . Int.
Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-SEPHER. kir-i-ath-se'-fer ...
/k/kiriath-sepher.htm - 8k

Formerly (55 Occurrences)
... (DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV). Judges 1:11 From there they went against the inhabitants
of Debir. The name of Debir was formerly Kir'iath-se'pher. (DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV) ...
/f/formerly.htm - 22k

Kirioth (1 Occurrence)

/k/kirioth.htm - 6k

Attacks (45 Occurrences)
... Judges 1:12 And Caleb said, "He who attacks Kir'iath-se'pher and takes it, I
will give him Achsah my daughter as wife." (DBY NAS RSV NIV). ...
/a/attacks.htm - 19k

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