Kerioth
LocationsGeographical Setting
An ancient city in the territory of Judah, identified in biblical texts as the birthplace of Judah Iscariot.
What is the meaning of Kerioth in the Bible?
Kerioth is an ancient city located in the region of Judah, distinct from the Moabite city of the same name, and is traditionally identified with the modern sites of Kuraiat or el-Kuryatain.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Kerioth helps clarify the geographical background of Judah Iscariot, distinguishing his origin from the more prominent biblical cities and providing context for the distribution of early Christian figures.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Kerioth (located near modern Kuraiat or el-Kuryatain, south of the Dead Sea) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Kerioth in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Kerioth clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Kerioth." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/kerioth/