What was Kiriath?

Kiriath is not the name of a person but a place name that appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament. The term “Kiriath” (קִרְיַת) in Hebrew simply means “city” or “town.” It is often found as a prefix in compound place names like Kiriath-arba and Kiriath-jearim, indicating a city associated with a particular individual, clan, or characteristic. The root qiryah (קִרְיָה) is related to the Hebrew word for “town” or “encampment” and is used in various contexts throughout Scripture.

In Genesis 35:27, the term appears in Kiriath Arba, which is another name for Hebron, a significant patriarchal location in the Old Testament. This reference is particularly important as it connects the history of the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—with the land that would later be central to Israel’s national identity.

“Jacob came home to his father Isaac in Mamre, near Kiriath Arba (that is, Hebron), where Abraham and Isaac had stayed.” — Genesis 35:27, NIV

Biblical References and Cross-References

• Genesis 35:27 – Kiriath Arba is mentioned as the place where Jacob returned to Isaac.

• Genesis 23:2 – Abraham mourns Sarah in Kiriath Arba.

• Joshua 14:15 – Kiriath Arba is mentioned as the former name of Hebron and linked to the Anakim (giants).

• Joshua 15:9, 60 – Mentions Kiriath-jearim in the list of towns allotted to the tribe of Judah.

• Judges 18:12 – References Kiriath-jearim as a camp location.

These occurrences indicate that “Kiriath” places were often significant cities with tribal, spiritual, or historical importance.

What Happened in Genesis 35?

In Genesis 35, Jacob fulfills God’s call to return to Bethel, a spiritually significant journey. Following the death of Rachel and the birth of Benjamin, the chapter closes with Jacob visiting his father Isaac in Mamre, described as being near Kiriath Arba (Hebron). This was where Abraham and Isaac had once dwelled.

This reunion symbolizes a return not only to family but to covenantal continuity. Kiriath Arba, or Hebron, serves as a geographic marker reminding readers of God‘s promises to Abraham about the land and his descendants (Genesis 13:14-18).

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Kiriath Arba represents more than just a city; it embodies continuity of God‘s covenant. For modern believers, its mention in Genesis 35 points to God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises across generations. It shows how places can carry spiritual weight, reminding God’s people of their heritage, identity, and destiny in God‘s redemptive plan.

Christians can view places like Kiriath Arba as reminders that God works within real history, real geography, and real people to bring about His plan of salvation. The mention of Kiriath in various compound names in the Old Testament also reinforces the importance of remembering our spiritual history.

How Kiriath Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The cities marked by the name Kiriath are often closely linked to God’s covenantal dealings with His people. Kiriath Arba (Hebron) is where Abraham settled, where Sarah died, and where Isaac lived. It is tied to the patriarchal promises, which find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the promised seed of Abraham (Galatians 3:16).

Jesus Himself walked in and around the lands connected to these ancient towns, fulfilling what the patriarchs longed to see. He is the One who brings the heavenly city (Hebrews 11:10)—a better “Kiriath,” whose builder and maker is God.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Covenant Faithfulness

Kiriath Arba is a location where the covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants were remembered and passed on. From Abraham to Isaac to Jacob, the city marks moments of inheritance and continuity.

2. The Significance of Place in Redemptive History

Places like Bethel, Hebron (Kiriath Arba), and Jerusalem are not arbitrary in the biblical narrative. They serve as milestones of God’s interactions with His people. Kiriath Arba was not only a literal home but a spiritual landmark.

3. Pilgrimage and Return

Jacob’s return to Kiriath Arba mirrors the believer’s journey of faith—a return to what matters, to roots, to covenant, and ultimately to God.

4. Cities and the Kingdom of God

The earthly cities marked by “Kiriath” point to the future city that believers await—the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:2), where God will dwell with His people forever.

Reflection Questions

1. Why do you think God included so many geographic markers like Kiriath Arba in the Bible?

2. How does returning to significant spiritual places help us remember God’s faithfulness?

3. In what ways can you “return” to God today, like Jacob did in Genesis 35?

4. How does knowing your spiritual heritage shape your identity as a follower of Jesus?

5. What earthly reminders (places, events, Scriptures) do you have that help you remember God’s promises?

Kiriath Arba—though just a city—bears the weight of generations of faith. It anchors the believer in a past that testifies to God’s faithfulness and points forward to the eternal city whose architect is the Lord Himself.