Jeremiah 31:15
“A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”
King James Version
Rachel weeping for her children, cited by Matthew as fulfilled in Herod's massacre of the Bethlehem infants.
Fulfillment References
Matthew 2:17-18
Archaeological & Historical Evidence
Ramah (er-Ram) is 5 miles north of Jerusalem. The massacre of Bethlehem's infants is reported only by Matthew.
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
JewishOriginal context: Jeremiah envisions the exiles passing through Ramah (near Bethlehem) on the way to Babylon. Rachel weeps for her descendants going into exile.
CatholicMatthew's fulfillment is typological — the massacre of the innocents recapitulates Israel's exile tragedy. Matthew sees Christ reliving Israel's history.
ProtestantMatthew's pesher application — the pattern of Rachel's mourning is fulfilled in Herod's massacre.
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Bible Prophecy Explorer · based on J. Barton Payne’s Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy catalogue · an openly Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal study resource — all traditions presented fairly. Pastor: C. Myles Young, PhD · Bishop: Nathaniel J. Wilson, Ed.D.