Place · Bible dictionary

Bethlehem

A small town near Jerusalem, the birthplace of King David and of Jesus, fulfilling Micah’s prophecy.

Called the ‘city of David,’ Bethlehem was the setting of the book of Ruth and David’s hometown. Its name means ‘house of bread.’

The prophet Micah foretold that Israel’s ruler would come from Bethlehem, and Jesus was born there during a Roman census (Luke 2).

Key verses BSB · Public Domain (CC0)

Micah 5:2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come forth for Me One to be ruler over Israel— One whose origins are of old, from the days of eternity.” Luke 2:11 “Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!”

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Original BibleDawn entry. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.