The Messiah Born in Bethlehem
Micah 5:2 named the village seven centuries in advance.
Micah named the obscure village of Bethlehem Ephratah as the birthplace of the eternal Ruler of Israel. Matthew records the chief priests citing this very prophecy to Herod when the magi arrived seeking the new-born King.
The Prophecy
"But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting."
The Fulfillment
"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king..."
"And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem...And she brought forth her firstborn son..."
A little town, a great prophecy
Bethlehem was small enough not to count among the chiefs of Judah, yet Micah foretold that its hidden quiet would produce the everlasting Ruler whose origins are from of old.
Fulfilled in the days of Herod
A Roman census moved Joseph and Mary from Nazareth to Bethlehem at precisely the appointed time. The chief priests, asked by Herod, quoted Micah 5:2 without hesitation.
People in This Prophecy
Verse Commentary
Read verse-by-verse commentary on the key passages of this prophecy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Jesus prophesied to be born?
In Bethlehem of Judah, as foretold by the prophet Micah.
Did the religious leaders know the prophecy?
Yes — they quoted Micah 5:2 to Herod in Matthew 2:5-6.
Related Bible Prophecies
The Messiah Born of a Virgin
Isaiah 7:14 foretold a virgin would bear Immanuel — fulfilled in Mary.
Out of Egypt Have I Called My Son
Hosea 11:1 fulfilled in the holy family's return from Egypt.
The Eternal Throne of David
God's covenant with David fulfilled in Christ's everlasting reign.
The Righteous Branch of David
Jeremiah and Zechariah foretold a righteous Branch — the Lord our Righteousness.
Related Reading
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