The religious faith and historical importance of the city of Bethlehem, which is considered holy for millions of Christian devotees around the world, is famous all over the world. This ancient city, located in the Palestine region of the West Bank, is the site where, according to Christian belief, Jesus Christ was born. This is the reason why every year lakhs of pilgrims come here on ‘Holy Pilgrimage’ and consider their lives blessed by visiting the birthplace of Lord Jesus in the Nativity Church.
Bethlehem is also called ‘City of David’, because the great King of Israel David was born here. Biblical prophecies also clearly state that the Messiah would be born in this city and the fulfillment of this prophecy further deepened the religious importance of Bethlehem. This city which is more than 3000 years old is considered to be a confluence of history, tradition and spirituality.
In Christianity, the most sacred journey is considered to be at three places-
Bethlehem – According to belief, where Jesus Christ was born
Jerusalem – Where, according to belief, Jesus preached and was crucified
Nazareth – Where Jesus is believed to have spent his childhood
The most sacred and prominent place among these is Bethlehem.
birthplace of jesus christ
According to the belief of Christianity, Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem. This is the same city where Mary gave birth to Jesus in a stable cave. Today the Church of the Nativity is built at this place, which is also considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Christians from all over the world come here during Christmas time.
Many prophecies in the Bible on Bethlehem
The Old Testament prophesied that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).
When this prophecy came true, the religious importance of Bethlehem increased greatly.
land of king david
According to Christian tradition, Bethlehem is the place where King David was born and where he was proclaimed king. Jesus is believed to be a descendant of David, so the city is also sacred to Christians by lineage.
Story of ‘Star of Bethlehem’
It is believed that when Jesus was born, a bright star appeared in the sky, which is called the Star of Bethlehem. Seeing this star, three wise men came to see Jesus. This story is very important in Christianity.
The history of Bethlehem, a 6000-year-old city, dates back to around 3000 BC. It was a small hill trading town.
1200 BC – Jewish settlement
The city was also important for the Jews. King David was born here, hence it is also called the city of David.
1 AD – Birth of Jesus Christ
The most important event in Christian history happened here.
327 AD – Church of the Nativity built
St. Helena, mother of Roman Emperor Constantine, built a church on the same cave where Jesus is believed to have been born.
Crusade period (11th–13th century)
There were many conflicts between Christian and Muslim armies here. Yet the Church of the Nativity was never destroyed.
1948–1967 – Under Jordan
Bethlehem was under Jordanian control.
after 1967
The Israeli–Palestinian conflict began and Bethlehem is today in the West Bank region of Palestine.
Church of Nativity
The place where the cave of the birth of Jesus is. Every Christian dreams of visiting this place.
Milk Grotto
It is believed that Mary stayed here with Jesus. It is famous because of the milky color of the stones.
Manger Square
World-famous place for Christmas celebrations.
Christmas Procession
Every year thousands of Christians join the procession.
