Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Kiriath-sepher, also known as Debir, is a significant city mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Kiriath-sepher" is often translated as "City of Books" or "City of Scribes," suggesting a place of learning or record-keeping. This etymology reflects the city's possible role as a center of culture or administration in ancient times. Biblical References Kiriath-sepher is first mentioned in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. In the Book of Joshua, it is listed among the cities captured by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership. Joshua 15:15-16 states, "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.'" The city is also mentioned in the Book of Judges, where the narrative is repeated with slight variations. 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.'" Historical and Archaeological Context Kiriath-sepher is identified with the archaeological site of Tell Beit Mirsim, located in the southern part of the Judean hills. Excavations at this site have revealed significant remains from the Bronze and Iron Ages, providing insights into the city's historical context during the biblical period. The strategic location of Kiriath-sepher made it an important city in the region, contributing to its prominence in the biblical narrative. Role in Israelite Conquest The capture of Kiriath-sepher is closely associated with Caleb, one of the faithful spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. Caleb's offer of his daughter Acsah as a reward for capturing the city highlights the importance of Kiriath-sepher in the conquest narrative. Othniel, Caleb's younger brother, successfully captures the city and marries Acsah, as recorded in both Joshua and Judges. This event underscores the themes of faithfulness and reward in the Israelite conquest. Theological Significance Kiriath-sepher's mention in the Bible serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites. The city's capture is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites taking possession of the Promised Land, a central theme in the books of Joshua and Judges. The account of Caleb and Othniel exemplifies the virtues of courage, faith, and divine reward, which are recurrent themes throughout the biblical text. Cultural and Literary Aspects The dual naming of the city as both Kiriath-sepher and Debir reflects a common biblical practice of cities having multiple names, often indicating different aspects of their identity or history. The narrative involving Caleb, Acsah, and Othniel is also notable for its portrayal of familial relationships and the role of women in the biblical narrative, as Acsah's request for springs of water from her father Caleb demonstrates her agency and the importance of resource allocation in the ancient Near Eastern context. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-SEPHERkir-i-ath-se'-fer (qiryath cepher; translated by many, as if it were Hebrew, as "house of books." Septuagint polis grammaton; the King James Version, Kirjath Sepher; other suggestions have been made: "border-town" (Moore) or "tolltown" (G.A. Smith): In two parallel passages (Joshua 15:15 Judges 1:11 f), it is mentioned as identical with DEBIR (which see), which has been frequently identified with edh-Dhaheriyeh. Sayce would place Kiriath-Sepher to the W. of Gath. See P E F S, 1893, 33-35. Strong's Hebrew 7158. Qiryath Sannah -- "city of writing," a city in Judah... "city of writing," a city in Judah. Transliteration: Qiryath Sannah or Qiryath Sepher Phonetic Spelling: (keer-yath' san-naw') Short Definition: Kiriath-sepher. ... /hebrew/7158.htm - 6k Library The Greek Versions as Aids to Biblical Study. Thesaurus Kiriathsepher... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia KIRIATH-SEPHER. kir ... Dhaheriyeh. Sayce would place Kiriath-Sepher to the W. of Gath. See PEFS, 1893, 33-35. ... /k/kiriathsepher.htm - 7k Kiriath-sepher (4 Occurrences) Kiriath (34 Occurrences) Sepher (4 Occurrences) Debir (12 Occurrences) Kir'iath-se'pher (4 Occurrences) Achsah (5 Occurrences) Caleb (39 Occurrences) Overcomes (21 Occurrences) Beforetime (21 Occurrences) Resources Who is Caleb in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Othniel? | GotQuestions.org Who was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Kiriath-sepher (4 Occurrences)Joshua 15:15 Joshua 15:16 Judges 1:11 Judges 1:12 Subtopics Related Terms |
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