Topical Bible: Bethlehem: A City Southwest of Jerusalem: Birthplace of Jesus

◄ Bethlehem: A City Southwest of Jerusalem: Birthplace of Jesus ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Geographical and Historical Context

Bethlehem, a small town located approximately six miles southwest of Jerusalem, holds a significant place in biblical history. Known as "Bethlehem Ephrathah" in ancient times, it is situated in the hill country of Judah. The name "Bethlehem" means "House of Bread," which is fitting given its fertile surroundings and historical association with agriculture.

Biblical Significance

Bethlehem is first mentioned in the Bible in connection with Rachel, the beloved wife of Jacob, who died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem) (Genesis 35:19). It is also the setting for the Book of Ruth, where Ruth the Moabitess meets Boaz, leading to their marriage and the birth of Obed, the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:13-17).

Davidic Connection

Bethlehem is renowned as the birthplace and early home of King David. The prophet Samuel anointed David as king in Bethlehem, marking the town as the origin of the Davidic line (1 Samuel 16:1-13). This connection to David is significant in biblical prophecy and messianic expectations, as the Messiah was foretold to come from David's lineage.

Prophetic Fulfillment

The prophet Micah prophesied that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of a ruler in Israel, whose origins are from ancient times (Micah 5:2). This prophecy is fulfilled in the New Testament with the birth of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew explicitly cites this prophecy in the account of the Magi seeking the newborn King of the Jews (Matthew 2:1-6).

Birthplace of Jesus

Bethlehem's most profound significance in Christian theology is as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. According to the Gospel of Luke, Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem due to a Roman census, and it was there that Mary gave birth to Jesus in a humble setting, placing Him in a manger (Luke 2:1-7). This event is celebrated by Christians worldwide as the fulfillment of God's promise of a Savior.

Shepherds and Angels

The announcement of Jesus' birth to the shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem is a pivotal moment in the nativity narrative. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, proclaiming the good news of great joy for all people: "Today in the City of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11). This angelic proclamation underscores Bethlehem's role as the "City of David" and the birthplace of the Messiah.

Legacy and Pilgrimage

Bethlehem has been a site of Christian pilgrimage since the early centuries of the Church. The Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the location of Jesus' birth, stands as a testament to the town's enduring spiritual significance. Throughout history, Bethlehem has been a symbol of hope and divine intervention, reflecting the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ.

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Micah 5:2
But you, Bethlehem Ephratah, though you be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall he come forth to me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.
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Matthew 2:1
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
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Luke 2:4,15
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
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