Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Bethlehem, meaning "House of Bread" in Hebrew, is a significant town in biblical history. Its name reflects its historical role as a fertile area known for grain production. Geographical Location: Bethlehem is located about six miles south of Jerusalem in the hill country of Judah. It is situated on a limestone ridge, providing a strategic vantage point and fertile land for agriculture. Biblical Significance: 1. Old Testament References: · Rachel's Burial: Bethlehem is first mentioned in Genesis 35:19-20, where Rachel, the beloved wife of Jacob, is buried. "So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). Over her tomb Jacob set up a pillar, and to this day that pillar marks Rachel’s tomb" (Genesis 35:19-20). · Ruth and Boaz: The Book of Ruth is set in Bethlehem, where Ruth, a Moabite widow, gleans in the fields of Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer. Their union leads to the lineage of King David (Ruth 1:22; 4:11-17). · David's Anointing: Bethlehem is the birthplace and early home of King David. The prophet Samuel anointed David as king in Bethlehem, as recorded in 1 Samuel 16:1-13. "Then the LORD said, 'Rise and anoint him, for he is the one'" (1 Samuel 16:12). 2. New Testament References: · Birthplace of Jesus: Bethlehem is most renowned as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, fulfilling the prophecy of Micah 5:2. "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come forth for Me one to be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times" (Micah 5:2). The Gospel of Matthew recounts the visit of the Magi to Bethlehem, guided by the star, to worship the newborn King (Matthew 2:1-12). · The Census and Nativity: The Gospel of Luke describes how Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem due to a Roman census, leading to the birth of Jesus in a manger because there was no room at the inn (Luke 2:1-7). Historical and Theological Importance: Bethlehem holds a central place in Christian theology as the birthplace of Jesus, the Messiah. It symbolizes God's provision and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The town's association with King David also underscores its importance in the Davidic lineage, which is crucial to messianic expectations. Modern-Day Bethlehem: Today, Bethlehem is a city in the West Bank, with a population that includes both Christians and Muslims. It remains a focal point for Christian pilgrimage, especially during Christmas, when believers from around the world visit the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the site of Jesus' birth. Concordance Bethelem (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 2:51 Thesaurus Bethelem (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Bethelem (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 2:51 Salma the father of Beth-lehem, Hareph the father of Beth-gader. (See RSV). ... /b/bethelem.htm - 6k Bethelite (1 Occurrence) Beth-el (65 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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