from קִרְיָה and the feminine plural of חוּץ; city of streets; Kirjath-Chutsoth, a place in Moab; Kirjath-huzoth.
Transliteration:Qiryath Chutsôwth
Pronunciation:keer-yath' khoo-tsoth'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H7155}}` *Qiryath Chutsôwth* is a compound proper noun, a place name, derived from two distinct components. The first element, קִרְיָה (*qiryah*), signifies "city" or "town," a term frequently employed in various forms throughout the Hebrew Bible (e.g., `{{H7151}}`, `{{H7149}}`). It denotes a settled, organized human habitation, often fortified. The second element, חֻצוֹת (*chutsôwth*), is the feminine plural of חוּץ (*chuts*), meaning "outside," "street," or "open place." When combined, `{{H7155}}` literally translates to "City of Streets" or "City of Outsides/Open Places." This etymology suggests a city characterized by its thoroughfares, public spaces, or perhaps its extensive layout. As a proper geographical name, its semantic range is confined to identifying a specific location in ancient Moab, serving primarily as a geographical marker within its sole biblical appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H7155}}` *Qiryath Chutsôwth* appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Numbers:
* [[Numbers 22:39]]: "So Balaam went with Balak, and they came to Kirjath-huzoth."
The context of this solitary occurrence is crucial. It describes the arrival of Balaam, the Mesopotamian diviner, in Moab, at the invitation of King Balak. Balak's intention was to secure a curse against the Israelites, who were encamped nearby. After an initial meeting, Balak brings Balaam to Kirjath-huzoth to offer sacrifices. The verse immediately following ([[Numbers 22:40]]) states that Balak sacrificed oxen and sheep and sent some to Balaam and the officials with him. This act of sacrifice suggests Kirjath-huzoth was either a significant cultic site for Moabite worship or a strategically chosen location from which to perform the ritualistic cursing. The name "City of Streets" might imply a public or prominent location, perhaps a place where such a significant ritual could be performed with a view towards the Israelite camp, or simply a well-known urban center in Moab. Its placement within the narrative highlights it as the initial staging ground for Balak's ill-fated attempt to manipulate divine power against God's chosen people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The components of `{{H7155}}` connect it to broader biblical concepts:
* **קִרְיָה (city):** This root is common in place names (e.g., Kirjath-Arba, Kirjath-Jearim). Cities in the Bible are often centers of power, trade, culture, and sometimes idolatry. They represent human organization and strength, which often stand in contrast to divine sovereignty.
* **חוּץ (street/outside):** Streets were vital public spaces in ancient cities for commerce, assembly, and social interaction. They could also be places of pagan worship or ritual, as altars and cultic activities sometimes occurred in open areas. The "outside" aspect could also connote a place exposed or visible.
* **Moab:** The nation of Moab, where Kirjath-huzoth was located, is consistently portrayed in Scripture as an adversary of Israel, known for its idolatry, particularly the worship of Chemosh. The setting of this event in a Moabite city underscores the spiritual conflict between the nations and the divine plan for Israel.
* **Balaam and Balak:** The narrative surrounding `{{H7155}}` is intrinsically linked to the figures of Balaam and Balak, representing the attempts of human and demonic forces to thwart God's will, ultimately to no avail.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single mention, `{{H7155}}` *Qiryath Chutsôwth* holds subtle theological significance as the initial backdrop for a pivotal event in Israel's wilderness journey.
1. **Setting for Divine Sovereignty:** Kirjath-huzoth serves as the stage where Balak, through Balaam, attempts to curse Israel. However, it is precisely in this "City of Streets," a place of human design and pagan ritual, that God intervenes directly, transforming intended curses into blessings ([[Numbers 23:8-12]]). The location thus becomes a testament to God's absolute sovereignty, demonstrating that no human scheme or pagan power, even in a prominent location, can override His divine plan for His people.
2. **Contrast of Spaces:** The "City of Streets" might subtly contrast with the divinely ordered and consecrated spaces of the Israelite camp and tabernacle. Kirjath-huzoth represents a place of pagan activity and human manipulation, yet it is utterly powerless against the God who dwells among His people.
3. **The Futility of Opposition:** The narrative unfolding from Kirjath-huzoth underscores the futility of human and nationalistic opposition to God's covenant promises. The very ground chosen for the curse becomes the place where God's blessing is affirmed, serving as a powerful reminder that God's word will ultimately prevail.
### Summary
`{{H7155}}` *Qiryath Chutsôwth*, meaning "City of Streets," is a geographical place name in Moab, mentioned once in the biblical narrative. It serves as the initial location where King Balak brings the prophet Balaam to offer sacrifices and attempt to curse the nation of Israel ([[Numbers 22:39]]). Although a single occurrence, its context is profoundly significant: it is the setting for the dramatic demonstration of God's unyielding sovereignty over human and pagan machinations. In this "City of Streets," intended curses are transformed into divine blessings, powerfully illustrating that no earthly power can thwart the purposes of the Almighty for His chosen people.
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