אֶפְרָתִי (eph.ra.ti)
eph.ra.ti
Ephraimite
N:N--PGQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--PG
Word Overview
The Hebrew term ephraṯî functions as a gentilic adjective, identifying someone as an "Ephrathite." Its meaning shifts depending on context: it can denote a descendant or inhabitant of the tribe of Ephraim, or more specifically, a resident of Bethlehem. This dual usage reflects the historical connection between the town and the broader tribal territory.
In the books of Samuel and Ruth, the word appears five times to locate key figures geographically. It identifies Elkanah as an Ephrathite from Bethlehem (1 Samuel 1:1), and later describes David’s lineage in similar terms (1 Samuel 17:12). The book of Ruth also uses it to describe Naomi’s hometown origin (Ruth 1:1). These references ground the narrative in a specific place known for its agricultural significance.
The term links back to Ephrathah, an ancient name for Bethlehem, which itself may relate to ideas of fruitfulness. By using this identifier, the biblical authors connect individuals to their ancestral home and tribal heritage, emphasizing identity rooted in land and family history rather than just personal achievement.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The term Ephrathite connects us to the deep roots of family and place in Scripture. It identifies people not just by name, but by their ancestral home. This reminds us that our identity is grounded in something larger than ourselves. We are part of a story that stretches back through generations.
In the Bible, this word points to Bethlehem, a town known for its fruitfulness and history. When characters are called Ephrathites, it highlights their connection to this significant location. It shows how God uses specific places and lineages to shape His plans.
For you, this might encourage an appreciation for your own heritage and community. Just as these ancient figures were rooted in their land, we too find strength in our spiritual family. Your faith is part of a long tradition, linking you to the hopes and promises of the past.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- an Ephrathite3×
- ¿/ an Ephrathite1×
- Ephrathites1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֶפְרָתִ֜י2×
- הַֽ/אֶפְרָתִ֥י1×
- אֶפְרָתִֽי\׃1×
- אֶפְרָתִ֔ים1×
Key Verses
-
Ruth 1:2
The name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi. The names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehem Judah. They came into the country of Moab and lived there.
This verse establishes the geographical origin of Naomi's family as Ephrathites from Bethlehem, setting the stage for the narrative's movement to Moab.
-
I Samuel 1:1
Now there was a certain man of Ramathaim Zophim, of the hill country of Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite.
Elkanah is identified as an Ephraimite, linking his household to the hill country and emphasizing their tribal heritage before introducing the birth of Samuel.
-
I Samuel 17:12
Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehem Judah, whose name was Jesse; and he had eight sons. The man was an elderly old man in the days of Saul.
David’s lineage is traced back to this Ephrathite family in Bethlehem, underscoring his humble origins before his rise to kingship.