About Bethlehem

Bethlehem (meaning “House of Bread”) is a town in the West Bank, situated in the Judaean hills. It is known as the hometown of King David and traditionally considered the birthplace of Jesus.

Biblical History

It is first mentioned in the Bible in connection with Rachel’s burial on the road to Bethlehem (Genesis 35:19). Centuries later, Naomi returned to Bethlehem from Moab with her widowed daughter-in-law Ruth who later married her kinsman-redeemer Boaz. Boaz and Ruth were the ancestors of David (Ruth 4:17-22). Samuel anointed David as king of Israel in Bethlehem (1 Samuel 16:1-13).

The Shepherds’ Field

The fields around the village of Beit Sahour are traditionally believed to be the Shepherds’ Field where the shepherds kept watch over their flock at night when an angel of the Lord appeared to announce the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:8-15). Even today shepherds can be seen tending their flocks in this same area. Beyond Shepherds’ Fields to the east is the plain known as the Field of Boaz.

Rachel’s Tomb

In the 19^th century, a Jewish philanthropist sponsored a renovation of the tomb. Today, Rachel’s Tomb remains under Israeli control. Due to its sensitive location, access to the Tomb is possible only through a secured road between massive walls to protect the Jewish pilgrims from Palestinian terrorism.