Bethlehem shepherds and larger Christmas cave example

This cave is not close to Bethlehem, but it serves as a good example of how caves are common along the ridge of the Judean mountains. Bethlehem and Jerusalem are the highest cities on that ridge. Just outside the cities, it’s easy to find small caves in the area. Shepherds still make use of such caves today. During hot weather, the caves are a cool place to rest. They provide shelter during rain showers and cold weather. In the winter, the caves can be treated like barns, where sheep and goats can be held until the heavy rains subside. The fact that Jesus was born in such an environment emphasizes the lowly nature of his birth.