Bible Dictionary
Kirjath-arba
Kirjath-arba was the early name of Hebron, the city associated with Arba. It became Caleb’s inheritance and was connected with the patriarchal burial place.
Definition
Kirjath-arba, meaning “city of Arba,” was the original name of Hebron. It was associated with Arba, one of the Anakim, and was later given to Caleb as his inheritance.
Biblical Usage
Kirjath-arba is connected with the patriarchal history at Hebron and with Caleb’s inheritance. The supplied material also records the Jewish interpretation that it was the city of four buried patriarchal figures, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Historical Background
The name is explained as deriving from its founder, Arba, who was one of the Anakim. The identification with Hebron is the principal historical background supplied.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
City of Arba, the original name of Hebron (q.v.), so called from the name of its founder, one of the Anakim (Gen. 23:2; 35:27; Josh. 15:13). It was given to Caleb by Joshua as his portion. The Jews interpret the name as meaning “the city of the four”, i.e., of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Adam, who were all, as they allege, buried there.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>kur-jath-ar'-ba, kir-jath-ar'-ba.</p><p>See KIRIATH-ARBA.</p>