Definition

Proper noun: - An ancient town near Jerusalem: Bethlehem-Judah is the historical name for a small town located in the region of Judah, near Jerusalem on the West Bank of the Jordan River. It is distinguished from other towns named Bethlehem and is significant as the early home of King David and, according to Christian tradition, the birthplace of Jesus.

Usage Notes

• Historical and Biblical Context: The term "Bethlehem-Judah" is used primarily in historical and biblical texts to specify this particular Bethlehem, as there was another Bethlehem in the region of Zebulun. It identifies the town's location within the tribal territory of Judah.
• Modern Reference: In contemporary usage, it is often referred to simply as "Bethlehem." The hyphenated form "Bethlehem-Judah" is used for specificity, especially when discussing its historical and scriptural significance.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The prophet Micah foretold that the Messiah would come from Bethlehem-Judah.
  • David was anointed king while his family was in Bethlehem-Judah.
  • The Gospel accounts place the nativity of Jesus in Bethlehem-Judah.

Advanced Usage

• "City of David": A title sometimes used for Bethlehem-Judah, emphasizing its connection to King David.
  • They traveled to the City of David, which is Bethlehem-Judah.

Variants and Related Words

• Bethlehem (Proper noun): The more common modern name for the town.
  • The Church of the Nativity is a major pilgrimage site in Bethlehem.
• Ephrath or Ephrathah (Proper noun): An ancient poetic name for the region or clan associated with Bethlehem-Judah.
  • Rachel was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem).

Synonyms

• Bethlehem of Judea: A synonymous phrase with the same meaning, also used for specificity.
  • Joseph went up from Galilee to Bethlehem of Judea.

Related Phrases

• "O little town of Bethlehem": A well-known Christmas carol that references this location.
  • The hymn "O Little Town of Bethlehem" celebrates the town's role in the Christmas story.

Noun

1. a small town near Jerusalem on the West Bank of the Jordan River; early home of David and regarded as the place where Jesus was born