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H4029 · Hebrew · Old Testament
מִגְדַּל־עֵדֶר
Migdal-eder
Proper noun
tower of the flock

Definition

Migdal-eder (literally 'tower of the flock') was a watchtower near Bethlehem used by shepherds to watch over their flocks. It appears in Genesis 35:21, where Jacob camped nearby after Rachel's death. Its profound theological significance comes from Micah 4:8, where Migdal-eder is addressed as the place to which the 'former dominion' and 'kingdom of the daughter of Jerusalem' will come — a messianic prophecy.

Usage & Theological Significance

Jewish tradition (Mishnah, Shekalim 7:4) identifies Migdal-eder as the location where the sheep for Temple sacrifices were born and raised. The shepherds who watched flocks at this very tower would have been the ones summoned by the angels on the night of Christ's birth (Luke 2:8-15) — they were likely watching the very lambs destined for Temple sacrifice. The One who is both the Good Shepherd and the Lamb of God was born in their midst. Migdal-eder thus stands at the intersection of sacrifice, shepherding, and messianic fulfillment.

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 35:21 Israel moved on again and pitched his tent beyond Migdal-eder [tower of the flock].
Micah 4:8 As for you, O tower of the flock [Migdal-eder], O stronghold of the daughter of Zion, to you shall the former dominion come.
Luke 2:8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
John 10:11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
John 1:29 Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

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