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Ruth 1

22 verses

TL;DR

Naomi returns to Bethlehem after famine, and her two daughters‑in‑law decide whether to stay; Ruth remains with her, pledging loyalty to Naomi and her God.

Summary

During the judges’ era, a famine drove Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their sons to Moab. After Elimelech died, Naomi’s sons married Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. The sons later died, leaving Naomi alone. Naomi urged her daughters‑in‑law to return to their mothers’ homes, but Ruth chose to stay with Naomi, declaring her commitment to Naomi’s people and God. The sisters set out to return to Judah, and when they reached Bethlehem, the townspeople welcomed them. Naomi, weary of her loss, asked to be called “Mara,” yet still returned home. The narrative concludes with Ruth’s steadfastness and the community’s response as they arrive in Bethlehem during the barley harvest.

Outline
  1. Famine drives the family to Moab and death of the patriarch.
  2. Naomi urges daughters‑in‑law to return, Ruth chooses to stay.
  3. Ruth’s pledge of loyalty leads them back to Bethlehem.
Themes
Loyalty and devotionFaith in God’s providenceThe tension between grief and hope
Keywords
NaomiRuthfamineloyaltyMoabBethlehemLORDbarley harvest
People
ElimelechNaomiMahlonChilionOrpahRuth
Places
BethlehemMoabJudahcountry of Moabland of Judah
Things
faminebreadbarley harvestRuth’s pledge
Key Verses
  • Ruth 1:10: Naomi’s directive for her daughters‑in‑law to return home
  • Ruth 1:16-18: Ruth’s heartfelt pledge of loyalty to Naomi and her God
  • Ruth 1:20: Naomi’s declaration of being called “Mara” to reflect her bitterness
Questions
  • What motivates Naomi to urge her daughters‑in‑law to return?
  • How does Ruth’s pledge redefine her identity and relationship to Naomi?
  • In what ways does the community’s reaction reflect the social norms of the time?
  • What does Naomi’s name change from Naomi to Mara signify about her experience?
Sentiment

mixed
mix of grief, determination, and hope