Eph'rathah, also spelled Ephrath or Ephrathah, is a significant biblical location and name with deep historical and theological implications. It is primarily associated with the region around Bethlehem and is mentioned in several key biblical passages.

Biblical References and Significance:

1. Genesis 35:16-19: Eph'rathah 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 (that is, Bethlehem). The Berean Standard Bible states: "So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem)."

2. Ruth 4:11: Eph'rathah is also linked to the ancestry of King David. The elders and people of Bethlehem bless Boaz, saying, "May you have standing in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem." This blessing underscores the importance of Eph'rathah as a place of heritage and legacy, particularly in the lineage of David.

3. 1 Chronicles 2:50-51: The genealogical records in Chronicles mention Eph'rathah as a person, the wife of Caleb, and the mother of Hur. This connection highlights the familial and tribal significance of Eph'rathah within the tribe of Judah.

4. Micah 5:2: The prophet Micah prophesies the birthplace of the Messiah, stating, "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come forth for Me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." This prophecy is pivotal in Christian theology, as it foretells the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, affirming the messianic expectation rooted in Eph'rathah.

5. Psalm 132:6: The psalmist refers to Eph'rathah in the context of seeking the Ark of the Covenant: "We heard it was in Ephrathah; we found it in the fields of Jaar." This reference suggests Eph'rathah's role in Israel's spiritual history and its association with the presence of God.

Theological Implications:

Eph'rathah holds a dual significance as both a geographical location and a symbol of divine promise and fulfillment. Its association with Bethlehem ties it directly to the Davidic line and the birth of Jesus, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. The name Eph'rathah, meaning "fruitful," reflects the spiritual and historical fertility of the region, producing both King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ, the Savior in Christian belief.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, Eph'rathah was a small but significant settlement within the tribal territory of Judah. Its mention in genealogies and prophecies underscores its importance in Israel's history. The region's fertile land and strategic location contributed to its prominence in biblical narratives.

Eph'rathah's legacy continues to resonate in Christian theology as a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through history.Eph'rathah (6 Occurrences)

Ruth 4:11
And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said: 'We are witnesses. The LORD make the woman that is come into thy house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel; and do thou worthily in Ephrath, and be famous in Beth-lehem;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 2:24
And after that Hezron was dead in Caleb-ephrath, then Abiah Hezron's wife bore him Ashhur the father of Tekoa.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 2:50
These were the sons of Caleb. The sons of Hur the first-born of Ephrath: Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim;
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1 Chronicles 4:4
and Penuel the father of Gedor, and Ezer the father of Hushah. These are the sons of Hur the first-born of Ephrath, the father of Beth-lehem.
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Psalms 132:6
Lo, we heard of it as being in Ephrath; we found it in the field of the wood.
(See RSV)

Micah 5:2
And thou, Beth-Lehem Ephratah, Little to be among the chiefs of Judah! From thee to Me he cometh forth -- to be ruler in Israel, And his comings forth 'are' of old, From the days of antiquity.
(See RSV)

Eph'rathah (6 Occurrences)
Eph'rathah. Ephrathah, Eph'rathah. Ephrathite . Multi-Version Concordance
Eph'rathah (6 Occurrences). Ruth 4:11 And all the people ...
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Ephrathah (6 Occurrences)

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Ephrathite (3 Occurrences)

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