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Caleb-Ephrathah

Locations
Modern Location Bethlehem, West Bank
Coordinates 31.7054, 35.2024

Geographical Setting

An ancient designation for Bethlehem, meaning 'House of Bread' or 'Fruitful Land', primarily associated with the tribe of Judah.

What is the meaning of Caleb-Ephrathah in the Bible?

Ephrathah is the biblical name for Bethlehem, identified in 1 Chronicles 2:24 as the place where Hezron died. The text notes that Caleb arrived at Ephrath after Hezron's death, establishing the genealogical context for the tribe of Judah.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Ephrathah as an alternate name for Bethlehem clarifies genealogical records in the Old Testament and highlights the ancestral roots of the Davidic line, providing essential geographical context for biblical narratives.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Caleb-Ephrathah (located near modern Bethlehem, West Bank) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Caleb-Ephrathah in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Caleb-Ephrathah clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned: 1 Chronicles 2:24

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Caleb-Ephrathah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/calebephrathah/
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