Etymology and Location
Bethlehem, meaning "House of Bread" in Hebrew, is a town located about six miles south of Jerusalem. It is situated in the Judean hill country and holds a significant place in biblical history and prophecy.

Old Testament References
Bethlehem first appears in the Bible in connection with Rachel, Jacob's wife, who died and was buried on the way to Ephrath, which is Bethlehem (Genesis 35:19). It is also the setting for the Book of Ruth, where Ruth gleaned in the fields of Boaz, leading to her marriage and becoming the great-grandmother of King David (Ruth 1:22, 4:13-17).

Bethlehem is most notably recognized as the birthplace of David, Israel's second king, who was anointed by the prophet Samuel in this town (1 Samuel 16:1-13). This connection to David is significant, as it establishes Bethlehem as the "City of David" (Luke 2:4).

Prophetic Significance
The prophet Micah foretold that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of a ruler in Israel, whose origins are from ancient times: "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). This prophecy is pivotal in identifying Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Messiah.

New Testament Fulfillment
The New Testament confirms Bethlehem's prophetic significance with the birth of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew records the visit of the Magi, who, guided by a star, came to worship the newborn King in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:1-12). The Gospel of Luke provides a detailed account of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy and the humble circumstances of His nativity (Luke 2:1-7).

Theological Implications
Bethlehem's role as the birthplace of Jesus underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and God's sovereign plan in salvation history. The town's association with David and the Davidic line highlights the messianic expectations fulfilled in Jesus, who is recognized as the Son of David and the rightful King of Israel.

Cultural and Historical Context
In the time of Jesus, Bethlehem was a small, unassuming village, yet its historical and theological significance far outweighed its size. The shepherds' visit, as recorded in Luke 2:8-20, further emphasizes the humble and accessible nature of the Messiah's birth, contrasting with the expectations of a royal and powerful deliverer.

Modern-Day Bethlehem
Today, Bethlehem is a city in the West Bank, with a rich Christian heritage. It remains a focal point for Christian pilgrimage, particularly the Church of the Nativity, which is traditionally believed to be the site of Jesus' birth. Bethlehem continues to be a symbol of hope and divine promise, reflecting its enduring legacy in biblical history.