Meaning
Bethlehem was an ancient town in Judah, also called Bethlehemjudah, associated with David and later with the birth of Jesus Christ.
Biblical Usage
Bethlehem was the home of Elimelech and Naomi and became the principal setting for the events following their return from Moab. The town was also the family city of David, where Samuel anointed him.
The prophets later associated Bethlehem with the coming ruler of Israel. The New Testament identifies Bethlehem as the birthplace of Jesus.
Key References
- Genesis 35:19
- Ruth 1:1-22
- Ruth 2:4
- Ruth 4:11-17
- 1 Samuel 16:1-13
- 1 Samuel 17:12
- Micah 5:2
- Matthew 2:1-6
- Luke 2:4-20
- John 7:42
Related Terms
- Judah
- David
- Ruth
- Naomi
- Ephrathite