Topical Encyclopedia Calebephratah is a location mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah in the Old Testament. It is referenced in 1 Chronicles 2:24, which states, "After Hezron died in Caleb Ephrathah, Abijah, the wife of Hezron, bore him Ashhur the father of Tekoa." This passage situates Calebephratah within the broader context of the lineage of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.Etymology and Meaning The name "Calebephratah" is a compound of two elements: "Caleb" and "Ephrathah." "Caleb" is a name that means "dog" in Hebrew, but it is also associated with boldness and devotion, as exemplified by Caleb, the son of Jephunneh, who was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan (Numbers 13:6). "Ephrathah" is often linked to the region around Bethlehem, as seen in Ruth 4:11 and Micah 5:2, where it is associated with the birthplace of King David and, prophetically, the Messiah. Historical and Geographical Context Calebephratah is believed to be a location within the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. The mention of Ephrathah suggests a connection to the area around Bethlehem, which was a significant town in Judah's inheritance. The genealogical record in 1 Chronicles 2 places Calebephratah in the context of the descendants of Hezron, a prominent figure in the tribe of Judah. The reference to Calebephratah in the genealogies underscores the importance of familial and tribal connections in ancient Israel. It highlights the continuity of the Judahite line, which is central to the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the Davidic dynasty and the Messianic prophecies. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, Calebephratah's mention in the genealogies of Judah serves as a reminder of God's providential care in preserving the lineage through which He would fulfill His promises. The tribe of Judah holds a special place in biblical history, as it is from this tribe that King David emerged, and ultimately, Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah, was born. The connection to Ephrathah, and by extension Bethlehem, is significant in the biblical narrative. Bethlehem is not only the birthplace of David but also the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah, as stated in Micah 5:2: "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come forth for Me one to be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." Conclusion While Calebephratah is not extensively detailed in the biblical text, its mention in the genealogies of Judah highlights the intricate tapestry of familial and tribal relationships that are central to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. The location's association with Ephrathah and Bethlehem further underscores its significance in the lineage of David and the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy. Concordance Calebephratah (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 2:24 Thesaurus Calebephratah (1 Occurrence)...Calebephratah (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 2:24 And after that Hezron was dead in Calebephratah, then Abiah Hezron's wife bare him Ashur the father of Tekoa. ... /c/calebephratah.htm - 6k Caleb-Ephratah (1 Occurrence) Ashur (6 Occurrences) Abiah (4 Occurrences) Caleb (39 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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