Bible Dictionary
KIRIATH-SEPHER
Kiriath-sepher was an ancient name for Debir, a city in the hill country of Judah. Its location is often associated with Tell edh-Dhaheriyeh, though other proposals have been made.
Definition
Kiriath-sepher was an ancient name for Debir, a city in Judah. The name has been translated “city of books,” though other interpretations have been proposed.
Biblical Usage
Joshua 15:15-16 and Judges 1:11-12 identify Kiriath-sepher with Debir.
Historical Background
Debir has frequently been identified with edh-Dhaheriyeh, while another proposal places Kiriath-sepher west of Gath. The exact identification remains disputed.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>kir-i-ath-se'-fer (qiryath cepher; translated by many, as if it were Hebrew, as "house of books." Septuagint polis grammaton; the King James Version, Kirjath Sepher; other suggestions have been made: "border-town" (Moore) or "tolltown" (G.A. Smith): In two parallel passages (Jos 15:15 f; Jud 1:11 f), it is mentioned as identical with DEBIR (which see), which has been frequently identified with edh-Dhaheriyeh. Sayce would place Kiriath-Sepher to the W. of Gath. See P E F S, 1893, 33-35.</p>