Book of Joshua - Chapter 15 - Verse 15

When examining the meaning of the verse "And he went up thence to the inhabitants of Debir: and the name of Debir before was Kirjathsepher," it is crucial to understand the geographical and historical context of the text. Debir was a city in ancient Canaan that was conquered by the Israelites during their conquest of the Promised Land. The name Debir means "oracle" or "holy place," emphasizing the significance of this city in religious and spiritual terms. The fact that the city was previously known as Kirjathsepher indicates a change in identity or significance over time. Kirjathsepher translates to "City of Books" or "City of Scribes," suggesting that the city might have had a reputation for intellectual pursuits or cultural importance before it became Debir. This transformation in name highlights the shifting nature of cities and societies throughout history, reflecting the evolving roles and functions of different locations over time.

The theological interpretation of the verse where it says, "And he went up thence to the inhabitants of Debir: and the name of Debir before was Kirjathsepher," involves examining the significance of names and places in the Bible. In this context, the changing of the name of Debir to Kirjathsepher highlights a transition or transformation that took place in that area. The renaming of cities or people often signifies a change in identity or purpose, demonstrating how God works in history and in the lives of individuals.

Word studies can further illuminate the meaning of this verse by exploring the original Hebrew words used. For example, the name "Debir" means "word" or "oracle" in Hebrew, suggesting a connection to communication with God. On the other hand, "Kirjathsepher" means "city of books" or "city of scribes," indicating a scholarly or educational aspect of the place. These nuances add depth to our understanding of the verse and invite us to consider the cultural and historical context in which it was written.