Genesis 35:21Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The Hebrews hold that this is the site where the temple was eventually constructed, and that the tower of Ader represents the tower of the flock, a place where all the sheep gather. The presence of such a structure in this location is affirmed by the prophet Micah, who states, "And thou art a tower of the flock, covered with mist, a daughter of Zion" (Micah 4:8). At that time, Jacob had set up tents in the area where the temple would later stand. However, if we follow the path of Jacob's journey, we find that the location of the shepherds is close to Bethlehem.

Eder, which translates to flock, signifies a place associated with shepherding. The tower of the flock refers to a vantage point from which one can oversee the flock as it grazes in the surrounding area. This location is identified near Jerusalem (Micah 4:8), although Jonathan notes the existence of another site close to Bethlehem.