Ruth 1:6-17 is about the deep and loyal commitment displayed by Ruth towards her mother-in-law Naomi, exemplifying the virtues of faithfulness and loyalty even in times of hardship and loss.
6 Then she arose with her daughters-in-law to return from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the fields of Moab that the Lord had visited his people and given them food.
7 So she set out from the place where she was with her two daughters-in-law, and they went on the way to return to the land of Judah.
8 But Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go, return each of you to her mother’s house. May the Lord deal kindly with you, as you have dealt with the dead and with me.
9 The Lord grant that you may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband!”
10 And they said to her, “No, we will return with you to your people.”
11 But Naomi said, “Turn back, my daughters; why will you go with me? Have I yet sons in my womb that they may become your husbands?
12 Turn back, my daughters; go your way, for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say I have hope, even if I should have a husband this night and should bear sons,
13 would you therefore wait till they were grown? Would you therefore refrain from marrying? No, my daughters, for it is exceedingly bitter to me for your sake that the hand of the Lord has gone out against me.”
14 Then they lifted up their voices and wept again. And Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her.
15 And she said, “See, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law.”
16 But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.
17 Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.”
Setting the Scene for Ruth 1:6-17
The scene in Ruth chapter 1 opens with Naomi, a widow from Bethlehem, standing with her two daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, on the road leading out of Moab. They had been living in Moab for some time due to a famine in Bethlehem, but now Naomi had decided to return home after hearing that the Lord had provided food for her people. As they stood there, emotions ran high as Naomi urged her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab and find new husbands, as she had nothing more to offer them.
The setting is poignant, with the dusty road stretching out before them and the sun beating down on the trio. Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth were bound by grief over the loss of their husbands, who were Naomi’s sons. The weight of their shared sorrow hung heavy in the air as Naomi tried to convince Orpah and Ruth to part ways with her. Orpah eventually relented, tearfully kissing Naomi goodbye and returning to her family, but Ruth clung to Naomi, declaring her unwavering loyalty and love. The scene is a powerful display of loyalty, love, and the bond between these three women as they faced an uncertain future together.
What is Ruth 1:6-17 about?
When we look at Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi, we see an extraordinary example of selflessness and devotion. Ruth makes a powerful choice to stay by Naomi’s side, despite facing hardship and uncertainty. This act of loyalty goes beyond mere duty – it is a testament to the depth of her love and faithfulness towards her mother-in-law. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing by those we care about, even when the path ahead seems challenging.
Have you ever faced a situation where you needed to show loyalty and selflessness to someone close to you? How did it make you feel to prioritize their needs above your own? Ruth’s actions inspire us to reflect on our own capacity for love and faithfulness, urging us to consider the ways in which we can support and stand by those we hold dear in times of difficulty. The bond between Ruth and Naomi reminds us of the profound impact that selfless love and unwavering faithfulness can have on our relationships and on our own growth as individuals.
Understanding what Ruth 1:6-17 really means
The Book of Ruth unfolds against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in Israel’s history, the time of the judges, marked by social and religious upheaval. At the heart of this passage are Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah, each facing pivotal decisions that will shape their destinies. Naomi, a widow, chooses to return to Bethlehem upon hearing of the Lord’s provision for His people, setting the stage for the unfolding drama. As Ruth and Orpah, her Moabite daughters-in-law, initially accompany her on this journey, they stand at a crossroads, torn between loyalty to Naomi and the familiarity of their own families.
In Ruth’s poignant declaration, “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay,” we witness a profound commitment that transcends cultural and familial boundaries. Her unwavering loyalty to Naomi symbolizes a depth of love and devotion that resonates across time and cultures. Ruth’s subsequent words, “Your people will be my people and your God my God,” mark a pivotal moment of conversion and acceptance, embodying a significant spiritual and cultural transformation.
Drawing parallels with other biblical passages enriches our understanding of Ruth’s narrative. The call of Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3 mirrors Ruth’s journey, emphasizing faith and obedience in the face of uncertainty. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 22:37-39 on loving God and neighbor finds embodiment in Ruth’s actions, showcasing love in action. Hebrews 11:8-10 underscores the faith of Abraham, akin to Ruth’s unwavering loyalty and trust in God’s providence.
The timeless themes of loyalty, faith, and cross-cultural acceptance in Ruth’s story resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. In a world where relationships can be fleeting, Ruth’s steadfast commitment to Naomi serves as a compelling example of enduring love. Her decision to follow Naomi and embrace her faith underscores the importance of living out one’s beliefs through tangible actions, embodying faith in action. Ruth’s inclusion in the Israelite community speaks to the significance of inclusivity and breaking down cultural barriers, offering a timeless lesson in acceptance and unity.
Consider a modern-day parallel to Ruth’s narrative—a young woman relocating to support her aging mother-in-law in a foreign land. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new culture, she finds strength in her faith and community, mirroring Ruth’s journey of loyalty and resilience. Ruth 1:6-17 stands as a testament to loyalty, faith, and divine providence, inviting readers to reflect on their own commitments and the transformative power of living out one’s faith in tangible ways.
How can we show loyalty and commitment in relationships?
One way to exemplify loyalty and commitment in relationships is through unwavering support during difficult times. When faced with challenges or adversity, showing loyalty means standing by one another’s side, offering comfort, understanding, and strength. This bond can help nurture a deeper and more meaningful connection, creating a sense of security and trust within the relationship. Commitment in relationships involves actively choosing to prioritize the well-being and happiness of the other person. This means demonstrating a willingness to make sacrifices, compromise, and work together towards shared goals. Individuals can strengthen their bond and foster a sense of mutual respect and admiration by consistently showing up for each other, being present, and investing time and effort into the relationship.
Furthermore, staying true to one’s word and promises is essential in demonstrating loyalty and commitment. Honoring commitments and following through on responsibilities helps build trust and reliability within the relationship. Individuals can deepen their connection and show their dedication to the well-being and longevity of the relationship by being consistent, dependable, and reliable in actions and words.
Application
Let’s be like Ruth from the Bible, showing loyalty and love to those in need just like she did for Naomi. Our world needs our support and kindness more than ever, especially during tough times. Let’s embrace the opportunity to be a beacon of strength for others. Will you rise up and spread love and compassion just like Ruth did?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.