Misgab
Misgab is an ancient city mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the region of Transjordan in modern-day Israel. Known today as Kerak. It appears across 1 verse in Scripture.
Biblical History
Misgab is a Moabite city mentioned in Jeremiah 48:1, where the prophet declares that "Misgab is put to shame and dismayed" as part of an extensive oracle of judgment against Moab. The Hebrew word misgab means "high fortress" or "stronghold," and some translators render it as a common noun rather than a proper place name, reading the passage as "the fortress is put to shame." However, its placement alongside other identifiable Moabite cities such as Nebo and Kiriathaim in Jeremiah's oracle suggests it refers to a specific fortified location. If understood as a proper name, Misgab likely denotes a prominent stronghold in the highlands of Moab, a region characterized by elevated plateaus and steep wadis that made it naturally defensible. Jeremiah's prophecy against Moab declared that even its most impregnable fortifications would fall before the coming judgment, emphasizing that no human stronghold could withstand God's decree. The oracle reminds readers that earthly security is fleeting and that only God serves as a true misgab, or refuge, for His people.
Archaeological & Historical Notes
The identification of Misgab remains debated among scholars. Some have associated it with Kerak (ancient Kir-hareseth), one of the most prominent fortified sites in the Moabite highlands of modern Jordan. Kerak sits atop a steep hill at approximately 1,000 meters elevation, making it a natural stronghold consistent with the meaning of misgab. The site features the well-preserved Crusader-era Kerak Castle, but beneath it lie remains from earlier periods including Iron Age fortifications. Other scholars suggest Misgab may refer to a different elevated fortress in Moab, as numerous fortified sites dotted the Moabite plateau. Archaeological surveys of the Kerak region have documented extensive Iron Age settlement. The modern city of Al-Karak in Jordan preserves the ancient site's strategic importance overlooking the Dead Sea and surrounding valleys.
Verse Appearances (1)
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Sources: ISBE Encyclopedia · OpenBible Geocoding (CC BY) · Pleiades Gazetteer View all →