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See Where Jesus was Born?

Written by Dianna Wiebe on .

Where was Jesus born? When we consider the birth of Jesus Christ, various images come to mind. Was it in a cave used as a stable, a manger surrounded by Mary and Joseph, or a scene with animals witnessing the newborn baby? While the Bible provides some details, the exact location of His birth remains a mystery. In this blog, we delve into three intriguing possibilities.

1. Guest Room: In the first century, homes were often designed with a guest room and an area for the animals. During times of census or major holidays, families could use the guest room for family who was visiting from out of town. Joseph, being from Bethlehem, had family in town that might have been offered a family’s guest room to him and Mary for the birth. The guest room would have provided some privacy, but also allow for the women in the family to help Mary. It’s possible that the manger mentioned in Scripture was located in this part of the home, adding a touch of cultural and familial context to the nativity story.

2. Cave: Early church historians, Origen and Eusebius, mentioned the possibility that Jesus was born in a cave. This idea is supported by tradition and by the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, which is built over such a cave. Caves were commonly used as shelters for animals, making this theory plausible. If true, this setting emphasizes the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth, aligning with the message of a Savior born into simplicity and humility.

3. Tower of the Flock – Migdal Eder: Recent research identifies Migdal Eder, located south of Jerusalem on the road to Bethlehem, as a potential birthplace of Jesus. The meaning of Migdal Eder is “tower of the flock”. This location played a significant role in raising the unblemished lambs for Temple sacrifices in Jerusalem. Consider the profound symbolism: the Lamb of God, destined to be the ultimate sacrifice for sin, born among the very lambs raised for sacrifice. This connection adds a rich dimension to the nativity story and underscores Jesus’ mission as our Savior.

The angel directed the shepherds to Bethlehem, where they would find the Messiah. The shepherds were not your average shepherds, but levitical shepherds, familiar with the law and the prophecy in Micah 5:1, that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. Guided by the knowledge of where the lambs were born in Bethlehem, the shepherds began their search. Once in Bethlehem, the shepherds discovered the Child in a manger, fulfilling the angel’s sign (Luke 2:11-12). Consider the profound symbolism: the Lamb of God, destined to be the ultimate sacrifice for sin, born among the very lambs raised for sacrifice. This connection adds a rich dimension to the nativity story and underscores Jesus’ mission as our Savior.

As we reflect on the humble birth of our Savior during this season, and where Jesus was born, Migdal Eder serves as a an important reminder. The shepherds of Bethlehem were committed to producing perfect lambs for Temple sacrifices. A reminder that Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, came as the final sacrifice for our sins.

Reflecting

As we celebrate Christmas, let’s consider the significance of Jesus’ birthplace. Whether it was a guest room, a cave, or Migdal Eder, the setting of His birth points to God’s plan of redemption and His deep love for humanity. This Christmas, celebrate not only His first coming but also look forward with hope to His second coming, when He will return as King.

May the Lord bless your study of His first coming, and may you look forward all year to His return!

Merry Christmas!

Dianna

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