Topical Bible: Bethlehem: A City Southwest of Jerusalem: Rachel Dies and is Buried At

◄ Bethlehem: A City Southwest of Jerusalem: Rachel Dies and is Buried At ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Geographical and Historical Context:
Bethlehem, a city 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," reflecting its fertile surroundings and agricultural heritage.

Rachel's Death and Burial:
Bethlehem is notably recognized as the site where Rachel, the beloved wife of Jacob, died and was buried. The account of Rachel's death is recorded in Genesis 35:16-20. As Jacob and his family journeyed from Bethel, Rachel went into labor and experienced severe difficulties. Despite the midwife's reassurance, Rachel's labor was hard, and she gave birth to a son whom she named Ben-Oni, meaning "son of my sorrow." However, Jacob later called him Benjamin, meaning "son of the right hand."

Rachel's death occurred on the way to Ephrath, which is Bethlehem. Genesis 35:19-20 states, "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." This site, known as Rachel's Tomb, remains a place of pilgrimage and reverence.

Significance in Biblical Narrative:
Bethlehem's significance extends beyond Rachel's burial. It is the setting for the Book of Ruth, where Ruth the Moabitess gleaned in the fields of Boaz, leading to her marriage and becoming the great-grandmother of King David. This connection to David is crucial, as Bethlehem is often referred to as the "City of David."

The prophetic importance of Bethlehem is highlighted in Micah 5:2 , which foretells the birthplace of the Messiah: "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." This prophecy is fulfilled in the New Testament with the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.

Cultural and Religious Impact:
Bethlehem's role in biblical history and prophecy has made it a focal point for Christian tradition and pilgrimage. The Church of the Nativity, built over the traditional site of Jesus' birth, stands as a testament to Bethlehem's enduring spiritual legacy. The city's rich biblical associations continue to inspire faith and devotion among believers worldwide.

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Genesis 35:16,19
And they journeyed from Bethel; and there was but a little way to come to Ephrath: and Rachel travailed, and she had hard labor.
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Genesis 48:7
And as for me, when I came from Padan, Rachel died by me in the land of Canaan in the way, when yet there was but a little way to come to Ephrath: and I buried her there in the way of Ephrath; the same is Bethlehem.
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