Ep 4. Bethlehem: Of Tyrants and Kings

Bible Land Passages Season 3 Episode 4: Bethlehem: Of Tyrants and Kings

In this episode of Bible Land Passages, viewers are taken on a journey to the city of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The episode explores the dynasties and rulers that have left their mark on this holy city throughout history, ranging from King David of the Israelites to King Herod the Great.

The episode delves into the ancient history of Bethlehem, revealing the city's importance as a center of worship to the Canaanite deity Baal and to the early Hebrews. Viewers are shown the remains of an ancient Canaanite temple dedicated to Baal, and encouraged to contemplate the religious beliefs of those who worshiped there centuries ago.

As the episode moves into the era of King David, viewers are shown key sites throughout Bethlehem that are associated with his reign, from the Field of Boaz where Ruth gleaned in the barley harvest, to the city gate where King David sat in judgment. The episode briefly recounts the story of David's slaying of Goliath, emphasizing the importance of Bethlehem as David's hometown and the place where he was anointed king.

The episode then moves to Bethlehem's most famous king, Herod the Great, who is renowned for his building projects throughout Judea, including the magnificent Herodium fortress and his expansion of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Viewers are shown several sites throughout Bethlehem that are associated with Herod, including the tomb where he was buried and the palace where he entertained guests.

The episode takes a closer look at Herod's reign, exposing the king's ruthless violence and his paranoia about threats to his throne. Viewers see the bloody aftermath of Herod's massacre of the innocents, as well as the local resistance to Herod's rule, including the rebellion led by Judas of Galilee.

The episode then discusses the New Testament account of Jesus' birth, beginning with the story of the Annunciation to Mary and the journey to Bethlehem for the census. Viewers are taken to the traditional site of Jesus' birth in the Church of the Nativity, where they see the famous manger and learn about the cave-like structure that housed Mary, Joseph, and the newborn Jesus.

The episode concludes with a brief discussion of the significance of Bethlehem for Christians, explaining how the city's history and religious traditions have contributed to its importance as a site of pilgrimage. Viewers are invited to ponder the themes of power, religion, and faith that have characterized Bethlehem throughout history, and to consider how these themes continue to resonate with us today.