Ruth Chapter 1 — Ruth’s Loyalty to Naomi
After the death of her husband and sons in Moab, Naomi returns to Bethlehem with her daughter-in-law Ruth, who pledges her lifelong devotion.
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Notable Verses
Ruth 1:16
“Ruth said, “Don’t urge me to leave you, and to return from following you, for where you go, I will go; and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God my God.””
This verse is a profound expression of loyalty and faith that defines Ruth's character and her commitment to the God of Israel.
Ruth 1:20
“She said to them, “Don’t call me Naomi. Call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me.””
This highlights Naomi's deep personal grief and the significance of names in Hebrew culture to reflect one's life experience.
Chapter Summary
During a famine in the days of the judges, Elimelech of Bethlehem moves his family to Moab. After Elimelech and his two sons die, Naomi is left with her Moabite daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. Hearing that the famine in Judah has ended, Naomi decides to return home. She encourages her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab to find new husbands for their own security. While Orpah tearfully departs, Ruth refuses to leave Naomi, famously pledging her loyalty to Naomi’s people and God. The two women arrive in Bethlehem at the start of the barley harvest. Naomi, deeply grieving her losses, tells the townspeople to call her Mara, meaning bitter, because she feels the Almighty has dealt harshly with her, bringing her home empty after she left full.
Frequently Asked Questions
They moved because there was a severe famine in their home region of Bethlehem in Judah. They sought food and survival in the country of Moab during the era when the judges ruled Israel.
The name Naomi means 'pleasant' or 'sweet.' After the loss of her husband and sons, she asks to be called Mara, which means 'bitter,' reflecting her emotional state upon returning to Bethlehem.
Her daughters-in-law were Orpah and Ruth, both Moabite women who had married Naomi's sons, Mahlon and Chilion. While Orpah eventually stayed in Moab, Ruth chose to follow Naomi back to Bethlehem.
Study Note
The mention of the barley harvest in the final verse serves as a literary transition to the events of the following chapter where Ruth meets Boaz.
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