Shepherds' Field (Bethlehem, Israel)
City:
Bethlehem
State, Province, Region, or District:
West Bank
Country:
Israel
Overview
Bethlehem holds immense religious significance in both Judaism and Christianity as the birthplace of King David and, most famously, as the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
Numerous caves, historically used by shepherds to tend their flocks, are still present in the region east of Bethlehem. According to the Gospel of Luke, this area is identified as the site where angels proclaimed the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:8-16), corresponding to the present-day town of Beit Sahur, translated as "House of the Night Watch." Previously called the Village of the Shepherds, it is now an eastern suburb of Bethlehem. Archaeological investigations have revealed several locations potentially linked to the so-called Shepherds’ Field, thereby introducing additional complexity to traditional interpretations of the area.
There are three shrines known as the Shepherds' Field in the eastern part of Beit Sahur - one maintained by the Roman Catholics, another by the Greek Orthodox, and a third by the Protestants. The Greek Orthodox and the Franciscan sites have both been excavated, and there have been churches and monasteries at these locations since the 4th century or earlier.
Alternate Names
Beit Lahm; Beit (Bayt) Sahur; Beit Sahour; Bet Lehem; Betar; Beth-Lehem; Beth-lehem-ephratah; Bethlehemjudah; Bit-Lahmi; City of David; Ephratah; Ephrath
Geography & Location
Bethlehem is 5.5 miles south-southwest of Jerusalem, 13.5 miles north-northeast of Hebron, 15 miles west of the Dead Sea, and just east of the main north-south ridge route through the hill country of Judah.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
General History of the Shepherds' Field
Architecture
Franciscan Shepherds’ Field (Catholic)
Biblical & Historical References
Jacob’s wife, Rachel, died and was buried in Bethlehem (Genesis 35:16-20). The Greek Orthodox Church site is associated with Mignal Eder, the place Jacob erected a tower of memorial to Rachel after her death
Spiritual Lessons and Application
Because Christ came to save all people and show his humility, the angels appeared to the shepherds as a sign that the “Good News” was available for all, from the lowliest shepherds to the noblest kings (the Magi) (Luke 2:8-16).
Etymology
Bethlehem stems from the Semitic phrase for "House of Bread" (Hebrew: Beit Lechem / Arabic: Bayt Laḥm). This reflects the region's agricultural roots. The etymology and meaning of the name have shifted across ancient cultures:
Planning a Visit
Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.
Places of Interest
Rachel’s Tomb