Bible Dictionary
Bethlehem
Bethlehem, “house of bread,” was David’s hometown and the birthplace of Jesus the Messiah. A second Bethlehem lay in the territory of Zebulun.
Biblical Usage
Bethlehem was associated with Rachel’s burial, Ruth and Naomi, David’s anointing, and David’s mighty men. It was distinguished as the birthplace of the Messiah Jesus, in accordance with the prophetic expectation concerning Bethlehem Ephrathah. Herod’s slaughter of the children of Bethlehem followed Jesus’ birth.
Scripture References