Add a bookmarkAdd and edit notesShare this commentary

Ruth 1:6-14 meaning

Naomi tells her daughters-in-law to return to their home so that they may find Moabite husbands. Orpah leaves but Ruth stays.

From Naomi's human perspective, both her present and future life seems to be hopeless. After leaving one's homeland, when things do not turn out well, it's natural to think about returning home, losing loved ones in death magnified her discouragement. Naomi heard in the land of Moab that the Lord had visited His people in giving them food.  News reached her that the Lord had lifted the famine so she desires to return to Israel. So she departed from the place where she was, and her two daughters-in-law with her; and they went on the way to return to the land of Judah. Judah is the name of the tribal area in which Bethlehem was located.

Being older, Naomi found little hope of ever remarrying. Yet, unselfishly, she doesn't want her dilemma to be an impediment for her daughters-in-law to remarry and have a brighter future than hers. So Naomi exhorts her daughters-in law to go, return each of you to her mother's house. Naomi gives them a blessing, saying may the Lord deal kindly with you as you have dealt with the dead and with me. It seems clear that her daughters-in-law have treated her very well. Naomi now wishes to treat them well, seeking their financial security. She encourages them to remarry, saying may the Lord grant that you may find rest, each in the house of her husband.

Then Naomi kissed them, and they lifted up their voices and wept.

Naomi argues practicalities. They need their own husband and family. That was necessary for protection and sustenance in an agrarian economy and a time prior to machinery. Naomi can't raise sons for them. Even if she did would they wait until they were grown?  Orpah relented and returned to Moab, but Ruth clung to her.

Select Language
AaSelect font sizeDark ModeSet to dark mode
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalized content. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies as described in our Privacy Policy.
;