Ephrathah (Bethlehem)
Overview
- Type: Town / Region
- Testament: Both
- Modern Location: Bethlehem, about six miles south of Jerusalem in the hill country of Judah
Biblical Significance
Ephrathah is the ancient name of Bethlehem and its surrounding district, often joined as “Bethlehem Ephratah.” It first appears in the patriarchal narratives, for Rachel died and was buried “in the way to Ephrath, which is Bethlehem” (Genesis 35:19; 48:7). In the book of Ruth, the elders of Bethlehem bless Boaz and Ruth, invoking the names of “Ephratah” and “Bethlehem” together (Ruth 4:11), and it was here that the line leading to King David took root. The town’s greatest glory is foretold by Micah: “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:2). This prophecy was fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ, marking the small town of Ephrathah as the appointed birthplace of the eternal Ruler and Shepherd of Israel.
Key Events
- Incarnation — the prophesied birthplace of the Ruler of Israel (Micah 5:2)
- Burial of Rachel in the way to Ephrath (Genesis 35:19)
Key People Associated
- Rachel — died and was buried near Ephrath
- Jesus Christ — born in Bethlehem Ephratah as foretold
Important Verses
- Micah 5:2
- Genesis 35:19
- Genesis 48:7
- Ruth 4:11
Cross-References
Notes
- “Ephrathah” likely means “fruitfulness,” a fitting name for the town that brought forth David and, in fullness, the Messiah.