קִרְיַת חֻצוֹת

קִרְיַת חֻצוֹת

Kirjath-Chutsoth, a place in Moab

Definition

Qiryath Chutsôwth (קִרְיַת חֻצוֹת) is a proper noun referring to a specific location in Moab, meaning 'city of streets' or 'city of open spaces.' It is mentioned only once in the Bible, in Numbers 22:39, as the place where Balak, king of Moab, met the prophet Balaam before proceeding to offer sacrifices. The name suggests a settlement characterized by its streets or public squares, possibly indicating a prominent or fortified town. As a place name, it does not carry multiple senses but is tied exclusively to this narrative context involving Moabite opposition to Israel.

Biblical Usage

This word occurs only in Numbers 22:39, within the story of Balaam and Balak. It is used as a geographical marker in Moab, where Balak takes Balaam after fetching him, and they offer sacrifices before moving to another location. The usage is purely locative, with no patterns across other books, highlighting its unique role in this specific episode of Israel's wilderness journey.

Etymology

The name derives from two Hebrew roots: קִרְיָה (qiryâ, H7151), meaning 'city' or 'town,' and חוּץ (chûts, H2351), meaning 'outside' or 'street.' The form חֻצוֹת is the feminine plural construct of חוּץ, yielding 'city of streets' or 'city of outdoors areas.' This compound name likely describes a settlement known for its layout or public spaces, reflecting common Semitic place-naming conventions.

Semantic Range

While the word itself is a mundane place name, its context in Numbers 22:39 is theologically significant. It appears in the Balaam narrative, where God sovereignly controls events to bless Israel despite Balak's opposition. Understanding the Hebrew enriches reading by emphasizing the setting where pagan rituals (sacrifices by Balak) contrast with God's prophetic purposes, highlighting themes of divine protection and the futility of cursing God's people. In ancient Near Eastern culture, place names often described physical features or functions. 'City of streets' may indicate a settlement with planned thoroughfares or market areas, common in Moabite urban centers. This contrasts with simpler encampments, suggesting a place of some importance where formal meetings and religious rites, like Balak's sacrifices, could occur. The name reflects the region's urban geography during the Late Bronze Age. קִרְיָה (qiryâ, H7151) — a general term for 'city' or 'town,' without the descriptive 'streets' element; עִיר (ʿîr, H5892) — another common word for 'city,' often used for walled settlements.

Word Details