Bethlehem - Sites, Photos

Bethlehem General Overview

Bethlehem (Arabic: لحم‎ بيت, Bayt Lahm, Hebrew: בית לחם‎, Beit Lehem) is located in the province of Judah, approximately 10 kilometers (5.5 miles) south of Jerusalem. The name Bethlehem is derived from the bread (Lehem) that the inhabitants baked from the wheat grown in the surrounding fields. It is also known as “The city of David” and was referenced as Ephrath.

Bethlehem is considered as one of the holiest towns in the world and it is revered by the three heavenly religions. Benjamin, Jacob’s youngest son, was born in Bethlehem and his mother Rachel died and was buried here. The grave site known as Rachel’s Tomb is located near the city. The son of Jesse, David, was also born here and he was anointed King of Israel by Samuel. Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem. It was here that an angel announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds of Bethlehem.

“4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem: because he was of the house and family of David, 5 To be enrolled with Mary his espoused wife, who was with child.
6 And it came to pass, that when they were there, her days were accomplished, that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:4-7)

According to the Islam, it was here that prophet Muhammad prayed on his way to Jerusalem.

Bethlehem of today is a Palestinian city located in the central West Bank. It has about 29000 inhabitants half of whom are Arab Christians and half are Arab Muslims. However, the percentage of Christians in Bethlehem has been falling due to emigration.
Most of the inhabitants depend on the tourism as a source of living and for them tourism is considered their major industry. This industry was severely damaged many times in the past few years, especially in the years of the Second Intifada (2000-2001).
Bethlehem has always been a pilgrimage place for millions of Christians, from all over the globe, that come here to affirm their faith.