Ephratah (also spelled Ephrath) is a significant biblical location and name, primarily associated with the region of Bethlehem in the Old Testament. The name Ephratah is often linked with fertility and fruitfulness, which is fitting given its association with Bethlehem, a town that plays a crucial role in biblical history.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 35:16-19 : Ephrath is first mentioned in the context of Rachel's death. As Jacob and his family journeyed from Bethel, Rachel went into labor and gave birth to Benjamin. Tragically, she died during childbirth and was buried on the way to Ephrath, which is identified as Bethlehem. "So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem)."

2. Ruth 4:11 : The elders and people of Bethlehem bless Ruth, saying, "May the LORD make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel. May you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem." This passage highlights the connection between Ephrathah and Bethlehem, emphasizing its importance in the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ.

3. 1 Chronicles 2:50-51 : Ephrathah is mentioned in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah. "These were the descendants of Caleb. The sons of Hur the firstborn of Ephrathah: Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim." This reference suggests that Ephrathah may also have been a clan or family name within the tribe of Judah.

4. Micah 5:2 : The prophet Micah foretells the birthplace of the Messiah, linking Ephrathah with Bethlehem: "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." This prophecy is significant in Christian theology as it points to the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.

Historical and Theological Significance:

Ephratah's association with Bethlehem is of profound importance in biblical history and prophecy. Bethlehem Ephrathah is the birthplace of King David, Israel's second king, who established the Davidic line. This lineage is crucial in the Christian understanding of Jesus as the Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies regarding the Savior's birth.

The name Ephrathah itself, meaning "fruitful," symbolizes the spiritual and historical fertility of the region. It is a place where significant biblical events occurred, including the birth of Benjamin and the burial of Rachel, as well as the setting for the account of Ruth, which ultimately leads to the genealogy of David.

In summary, Ephratah/Ephrath is a term rich with historical, genealogical, and prophetic significance, deeply intertwined with the narrative of redemption and the fulfillment of God's promises through the lineage of David and the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.Ephratah or Ephrath

(fruitful).

1. Second wife of Caleb the son of Hezron, mother of Hur and grandmother of Caleb the spy, according to (1 Chronicles 2:19,50) and probably 1Chr 2:24 and 1Chr 4:4 (B.C. 1695.)
2. The ancient name of Bethlehem-judah. (Genesis 35:16,19; 48:7)

672. Ephrath -- an Israelite woman, also the name of several ...
... NASB Word Usage Ephrath (5), Ephrathah (5). Ephrath, Ephratah. ... 132:6) perhaps for
Ephraim; also of an Israelitish woman -- Ephrath, Ephratah. see HEBREW parah. ...
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The Incarnation and Birth of Christ
... "But thou, Beth-lehem Ephratah, though thou ... in the 16th verse""And they journeyed
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