KIR (of Moab). Coupled with Ar of Moab ( Isaiah 15:1 ), possibly identical with it. Following the Targum, Kir of Moab has long been identified with the modern Kerak , a place of great importance in the times of the Crusades. Kerak is situated on a lofty spur between the Wady el-Kerak and the Wady ‘A in Franji , about 4000 feet above the Dead Sea level. The hills behind rise much higher, so that it is commanded on every side by higher ground, which explains 2 Kings 3:25-27 . It was surrounded by a wall of great thickness, and there are remains of ancient rock-hewn cisterns. The gates were to be reached only through long tunnels in the solid rock.
C. H. W. Johns.