Kiriath Jearim
About Kiriath Jearim
Kiriath Jearim (“City of the Forest”) rests on a commanding spot in the Judean highlands, with views of the Jerusalem Mountains and the western suburbs of Jerusalem.
Kiriath Jearim Past
Kiriath Jearim was a cultic centre as suggested by its previous names. A major route passed near the site in ancient times, probably the way the tribe of Danites travelled when they relocated their territory on the coast to the north. They camped at Kiriath Jearim and called that place Mahaneh-dan to this day (Judges 18:11-12).
House of Abinadab
It is best known as the place where the Ark of the Covenant was kept from the time of Samuel to the reign of David. The Ark of the Covenant was captured by the Philistines in Shiloh and returned to Beit Shemesh after wrecking death and sickness on the Philistine cities. From there it was taken to Kiriath Jearim and brought into the house of Abinadab whose son Eleazar was consecrated to protect it (1 Samuel 7:1-2). Twenty years later, the Ark of the Covenant was finally brought by King David to Jerusalem.
Our Lady of the Ark of the Covenant Church
This beautiful church is built over the ruins of a 5th century Byzantine church. Tradition has it that this is the site of the house Abinadab.
Interesting Facts
- Before the conquest of Canaan by the Israelites, Kiriath Jearim was known as Kiraith Baal (the “city of Baal”), Baalah or Baal Judah. It was a Hivite settlement connected with the people of Gibeon and a centre of Baal worship.
- The modern Arabic name is Deir el-Azar, probably stems from the reference to Eleazar who took charge of the ark when it was brought it Kiriath Jearim.
- Atop the church is a prominent statue of Mary and baby Jesus that can be seen throughout the area and from the passing highway.
