Naomi’s Bitter Grief and Ruth’s Unwavering Loyalty: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Ruth 1

✨ Executive Summary

Ruth 1, a poignant narrative nestled within the Old Testament, introduces us to Naomi and her family facing famine in Bethlehem. Forced to seek refuge in Moab, tragedy strikes as Naomi’s husband and sons pass away, leaving her with her two Moabite daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. Driven by love and a desire to return to her homeland, Naomi urges her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab. Orpah reluctantly agrees, but Ruth famously pledges her unwavering loyalty to Naomi, choosing to embrace her mother-in-law’s God and her people. This chapter sets the stage for a profound story of redemption, loyalty, and God’s providential care, demonstrating how even amidst profound loss, seeds of hope and divine purpose can blossom. We’ll explore Naomi’s bitter grief and Ruth’s unwavering loyalty as seen through the lens of Coptic Orthodox tradition.

The book of Ruth begins with a famine gripping the land of Israel, forcing Elimelech and his family to seek refuge in Moab. This chapter lays the foundation for a beautiful story of loyalty, redemption, and God’s providential hand at work even in the midst of suffering. This commentary will delve into the depths of each verse, drawing upon Patristic wisdom, Coptic Orthodox tradition, and relevant historical context to illuminate the spiritual lessons contained within.

📖 Commentary: Ruth 1

Ruth 1:1-2

Hebrew: (Partial – due to character limit restrictions) וַיְהִי בִּימֵי שְׁפֹט הַשֹּׁפְטִים וַיְהִי רָעָב בָּאָרֶץ וַיֵּלֶךְ אִישׁ מִבֵּית לֶחֶם יְהוּדָה לָגוּר בִּשְׂדֵי מוֹאָב הוּא וְאִשְׁתּוֹ וּשְׁנֵי בָנָיו׃ וְשֵׁם הָאִישׁ אֱלִימֶלֶךְ וְשֵׁם אִשְׁתּוֹ נָעֳמִי וְשֵׁם שְׁנֵי בָנָיו מַחְלוֹן וְכִלְיוֹן אֶפְרָתִים מִבֵּית לֶחֶם יְהוּדָה וַיָּבֹאוּ שְׂדֵי מוֹאָב וַיִּהְיוּ שָׁם׃

KJV: Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons. And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there.

NKJV: Now it came to pass, in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem, Judah, went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he and his wife and his two sons. The name of the man was Elimelech, the name of his wife Naomi, and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion—Ephrathites of Bethlehem, Judah. Then they went to the country of Moab and remained there.

The opening verses immediately establish a context of hardship and instability. “In the days when the judges ruled” speaks to a period marked by cycles of disobedience, oppression, and deliverance in Israel’s history (Judges 2:16-19). The famine, a recurring motif in the Old Testament (Genesis 12:10, 26:1; 2 Samuel 21:1), underscores the severity of the situation. Elimelech’s decision to leave Bethlehem, meaning “House of Bread,” for Moab, a land associated with idolatry and Israel’s enemies (Numbers 22-24), highlights the desperation driving his actions. We must ask ourselves, when facing trials, do we turn to God or seek solutions elsewhere, potentially compromising our faith? This is an opportunity to reflect on our dependence on God during times of difficulty. A good web hosting company can help you maintain your site in this time, consider exploring dohost services.

Ruth 1:3-5

KJV: And Elimelech Naomi’s husband died; and she was left, and her two sons. And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years. And Mahlon and Chilion died also both of them; and the woman was left of her two sons and her husband.

NKJV: Then Elimelech, Naomi’s husband, died; and she was left, and her two sons. Now they took wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth. And they dwelt there about ten years. Then both Mahlon and Chilion also died; so the woman survived her two sons and her husband.

These verses chronicle a cascade of loss. The death of Elimelech leaves Naomi widowed and vulnerable. The subsequent marriages of her sons to Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth, while understandable in a foreign land, potentially introduced foreign religious practices into their family. The tragic deaths of Mahlon and Chilion compound Naomi’s grief, leaving her bereft of husband and sons. She is now a woman stripped of her support system, facing an uncertain future in a foreign land. This reminds us of the fragility of life and the inevitability of suffering. We learn from the Psalms (Psalm 34:18) that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Naomi’s story resonates with the experience of abandonment and loss, a painful reality often explored in our hymns and prayers. The writings of St. Macarius the Great teaches us that trials are a means through which our faith is tested and refined; “Ὁ γὰρ πειρασμὸς, ἐργαστήριον ἀρετῆς ἐστιν.” (Homily 15.24 – “For temptation is a workshop of virtue”).

Ruth 1:6-7

KJV: Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the Lord had visited his people in giving them bread. Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah.

NKJV: Then she arose with her daughters-in-law that she might return from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the country of Moab that the Lord had visited His people by giving them bread. Therefore she went out 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.

Hope emerges from the depths of despair. Naomi hears that the Lord has “visited his people” by providing food, signaling an end to the famine in Bethlehem. This “visitation” is a powerful expression of God’s intervention and mercy. Driven by a desire to return home and perhaps guided by a flicker of hope, Naomi prepares to journey back to Judah with her daughters-in-law. This verse underscores the importance of faith and trusting in God’s provision, even when circumstances seem bleak. The Fathers teach us to see God’s hand in all things, even in trials. St. John Chrysostom remarks: “Πάντα συνεργεῖ εἰς ἀγαθὸν τοῖς ἀγαπῶσι τὸν Θεόν.” (“All things work together for good to those who love God.” – Romans 8:28 Commentary). The return to the land of Judah is a symbol of returning to God’s presence and seeking His blessings.

Ruth 1:8-10

KJV: And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother’s house: the Lord deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me. The Lord grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept. And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people.

NKJV: And Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go, return each to her mother’s house. The Lord deal kindly with you, as you have dealt with the dead and with me. The Lord grant that you may find rest, each in the house of her husband.” So she kissed them, and they lifted up their voices and wept. And they said to her, “Surely we will return with you to your people.”

Naomi, understanding the potential hardships awaiting them in Judah, selflessly encourages her daughters-in-law to return to their families in Moab, where they have the opportunity to remarry and find security. Her blessing, “The Lord deal kindly with you,” demonstrates her compassion and concern for their well-being. The phrase “as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me” reveals the kindness and care Orpah and Ruth provided during a time of great sorrow. While both daughters-in-law express a desire to stay with Naomi, her realistic assessment of their situation underscores her selflessness. This section highlights the virtue of selfless love, a cornerstone of Christian teaching. We see this principle exemplified in Christ’s sacrifice for humanity. Remember 1 John 3:16: “By this we know love, that He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” The daughters-in-law weep with Naomi, displaying shared grief, a reminder that compassion is a powerful connector.

Ruth 1:11-13

KJV: And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I said, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should bear sons; Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the Lord is gone out against me.

NKJV: But Naomi said, “Turn back, my daughters; why will you go with me? Are there still sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? Turn back, my daughters, go; for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say I have hope, if I should have a husband tonight and also bear sons, would you wait for them till they are grown? Would you restrain yourselves from having husbands? No, my daughters; for it grieves me very much for your sakes that the hand of the Lord has gone out against me!”

Naomi reinforces her plea, emphasizing the bleakness of her situation. She points out that she is too old to bear more sons who could become their husbands, according to the levirate marriage custom (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). She attributes her suffering to “the hand of the Lord,” reflecting a common understanding in ancient times that misfortune was often a result of divine displeasure. However, this perspective needs to be balanced with the Christian understanding of suffering as a means of spiritual growth and purification, as well as a consequence of the fallen world. While Naomi’s grief is understandable, we, as Christians, should strive to see God’s purpose even in the midst of trials. The Fathers remind us that God allows suffering for our ultimate good. St. Isaac the Syrian says, “God does not desire the death of the sinner, but that he should turn and live; but the tribulations which befall him lead him to repentance.” This verse highlights the theme of sacrifice for the sake of others.

Ruth 1:14-15

KJV: And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law.

NKJV: Then they lifted up their voices and wept again; and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her. And she said, “Look, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law.”

A pivotal moment arrives. Orpah, after another tearful farewell, chooses to return to Moab, likely motivated by the desire for security and familiarity. Ruth, however, “clings” to Naomi, demonstrating a profound and unwavering commitment. Naomi points out that Orpah has returned “to her people, and unto her gods,” subtly highlighting the religious and cultural differences between them. She is essentially giving Ruth a final opportunity to reconsider. The contrast between Orpah and Ruth is significant. Orpah represents the choice of comfort and self-preservation, while Ruth embodies unwavering loyalty and faith. Ruth’s choice is a powerful example of true discipleship, echoing Christ’s call to “deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). The decision to leave one’s former life and embrace a new path is central to the Christian experience.

Ruth 1:16-18

KJV: And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.

NKJV: But Ruth said: “Entreat me not to leave you, Or to turn back from following after you; For wherever you go, I will go; And wherever you lodge, I will lodge; Your people shall be my people, And your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, And there I will be buried. The Lord do so to me, and more also, if anything but death parts you and me.” When she saw that she was determined to go with her, she stopped speaking to her.

Ruth’s declaration is a masterpiece of devotion and loyalty. Her words resonate with unwavering commitment: “Whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.” This is a complete renunciation of her former life and an embrace of Naomi’s culture, people, and, most importantly, her God. Her willingness to die and be buried alongside Naomi further emphasizes the depth of her commitment. Ruth’s pledge is not merely an emotional outburst; it is a conscious and deliberate choice, rooted in faith and love. Her words find echoes in our baptismal vows, where we renounce our old life and pledge allegiance to Christ. This is a potent reminder of the covenant we enter into with God and the unwavering loyalty He expects from us. When Naomi sees Ruth’s steadfast commitment, she ceases her attempts to dissuade her.

Ruth 1:19-22

KJV: So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and they said, Is this Naomi? And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the Lord hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me? So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest.

NKJV: Now the two of them went until they came to Bethlehem. And it happened, when they had come to Bethlehem, that all the city was excited because of them; and the women said, “Is this Naomi?” But she said to them, “Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord has brought me home again empty. Why then do you call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me?” So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess her daughter-in-law with her, who returned from the country of Moab. Now they arrived in Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest.

Naomi and Ruth arrive in Bethlehem, and the city is stirred by their return. Naomi, however, rejects her name, which means “pleasantness,” and asks to be called “Mara,” meaning “bitter,” reflecting the profound sorrow she feels. She attributes her suffering directly to God, stating that “the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me.” While her pain is understandable, it is important to remember that God’s ways are often beyond our understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9). Even in the midst of suffering, God can be working towards a greater good. The chapter concludes by noting that they arrived in Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest, a subtle hint of hope and provision. The harvest symbolizes God’s blessing and the potential for a new beginning. The story of Naomi and Ruth reminds us that even in our darkest moments, God’s grace and provision can be found.

💡 Key Reflections and Teachings

• Loyalty and Commitment: Ruth’s unwavering loyalty to Naomi is a powerful example of Christian love and commitment.
• God’s Providence: Even in the midst of suffering, God’s hand is at work, guiding and providing for those who trust in Him.
• Selfless Love: Naomi’s concern for her daughters-in-law demonstrates the importance of selfless love and putting others’ needs before our own.
• Faith in the Face of Adversity: Despite facing immense loss, Naomi and Ruth demonstrate faith and resilience.
• The Power of Choice: Ruth’s deliberate choice to embrace Naomi’s people and God highlights the importance of making conscious decisions that align with our faith.
• New Beginnings: The arrival in Bethlehem at the beginning of the harvest season symbolizes the potential for new beginnings and God’s blessing even after hardship.

❓ FAQ ❓

Q: Why did Elimelech leave Bethlehem during the famine?

A: Elimelech left Bethlehem seeking refuge and sustenance for his family during the famine. While understandable, it led to a series of tragic events that tested the faith of Naomi and her daughters-in-law. This highlights the importance of seeking God’s guidance even when facing difficult circumstances.

Q: What is the significance of Ruth being a Moabitess?

A: Moabites were often considered enemies of Israel, and their religious practices were different. Ruth’s decision to embrace Naomi’s God despite her Moabite background is a testament to her faith and loyalty, demonstrating that God’s grace extends to all people.

Q: How does Naomi’s bitterness relate to the Christian understanding of suffering?

A: Naomi’s bitterness is a natural reaction to the immense loss she experienced. However, the Christian faith teaches that suffering can be a means of spiritual growth and purification. While we may not always understand God’s plan, we can trust that He is working towards our ultimate good, even in the midst of trials. We can use the services of dohost to host our own stories.

Q: What are the spiritual lessons we can learn from Ruth’s story?

A: Ruth’s story teaches us about loyalty, commitment, faith, and God’s providential care. Her unwavering devotion to Naomi and her embrace of God’s people serve as an example of true discipleship and remind us of the importance of trusting in God’s plan, even when we face adversity. We can apply these lessons by striving to be loyal, compassionate, and faithful in our relationships and circumstances.

🕊️ Conclusion

The first chapter of Ruth paints a vivid portrait of loss, grief, and unwavering loyalty. **Naomi’s bitter grief and Ruth’s unwavering loyalty** stand in stark contrast, yet both are essential to the story’s profound message. Naomi’s initial despair, while understandable, is ultimately tempered by Ruth’s selfless commitment and God’s providential care. Ruth’s declaration to Naomi is a powerful testament to the transformative power of love and faith, illustrating that even in the darkest of times, hope and new beginnings are possible. This chapter challenges us to examine our own loyalty to God and to others, urging us to embrace the virtues of compassion, selflessness, and unwavering faith, knowing that God can work even in our most painful experiences to bring about ultimate good. May we all be like Ruth, embracing the path God has set before us, regardless of the cost.

Tags

Ruth, Naomi, Moab, Bethlehem, loyalty, grief, faith, redemption, Old Testament, Coptic Orthodox

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Explore **Naomi’s bitter grief and Ruth’s unwavering loyalty** in Ruth 1 through a Coptic Orthodox lens. Discover profound lessons of faith, commitment, and divine providence.