Ephrathite
LocationsGeographical Setting
Ephrath is an ancient toponym for Bethlehem, located in the Judean hills of the southern Levant.
What is the meaning of Ephrathite in the Bible?
Ephrath denotes the ancient settlement identified with modern Bethlehem, serving as the ancestral home of the tribe of Judah and the birthplace of King David.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing Ephrath as an alternate name for Bethlehem clarifies genealogical references in the Book of Ruth and prophetic texts that link the Davidic lineage to its specific geographic origins.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Ephrathite (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 Ephrathite in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ephrathite clarify?
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
"Ephrathite." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ephrathite/