Ruth 1:4

who took Moabite women as their wives, one named Orpah and the other named Ruth. And after they had lived in Moab about ten years,

Study Bible

They took Moabite women as their wives
This phrase highlights a significant cultural and religious decision. The Hebrew word for "took" (לָקַח, laqach) implies a deliberate choice, indicating that Mahlon and Chilion actively chose to marry women from Moab, a nation often at odds with Israel. The Moabites descended from Lot and were historically seen as outsiders to the Israelite community. This decision reflects the dire circumstances in which Elimelech's family found themselves, as they sought survival in a foreign land. It also sets the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan, as these unions, particularly with Ruth, become pivotal in the lineage of David and ultimately Jesus Christ.

Moabite women
The Moabites were descendants of Moab, the son of Lot through an incestuous relationship with his daughter (Genesis 19:37). This origin account often cast a shadow over the Moabites in the eyes of the Israelites. Marrying Moabite women was controversial, as it risked religious and cultural assimilation into practices contrary to the worship of Yahweh. However, this narrative challenges preconceived notions of purity and inclusion, as Ruth, a Moabite, becomes a model of faithfulness and devotion.

one named Orpah and the other named Ruth
The naming of Orpah and Ruth is significant. Orpah's name is believed to mean "back of the neck" or "gazelle," possibly foreshadowing her eventual decision to return to her people. Ruth's name, on the other hand, is often associated with "friend" or "companion," which is fitting given her steadfast loyalty to Naomi. The mention of their names personalizes the story, inviting readers to consider the individual choices and destinies of these women within God's overarching plan.

And after they had lived in Moab about ten years
The duration of "about ten years" suggests a period of significant adjustment and integration into Moabite society. The number ten in biblical terms often symbolizes completeness or a full measure of time. This decade in Moab was marked by both loss and preparation, as it set the stage for Naomi's return to Bethlehem and Ruth's pivotal role in Israel's history. The time spent in Moab underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and timing, as He works through the ordinary and extraordinary circumstances of life to fulfill His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite woman who becomes the daughter-in-law of Naomi. Her account is central to the Book of Ruth, highlighting themes of loyalty, faith, and redemption.

2. Orpah
Another Moabite woman and sister-in-law to Ruth. She initially sets out with Naomi but eventually returns to her people.

3. Naomi
An Israelite woman who moves to Moab with her family due to famine. She becomes the mother-in-law to Ruth and Orpah.

4. Moab
A region east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. It is significant as the setting where Ruth and Orpah originate.

5. Elimelech
Naomi's husband, whose death sets the stage for the events in Ruth's life.

Teaching Points

Loyalty and Commitment
Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi demonstrates profound loyalty and commitment, serving as a model for our relationships with family and God.

God's Sovereignty in Unlikely Circumstances
Despite Ruth's Moabite background, God uses her in His redemptive plan, reminding us that God can work through any situation or person.

Cultural and Spiritual Integration
Ruth's integration into the Israelite community illustrates the possibility of cultural and spiritual transformation through faith.

Faithfulness in Adversity
The account encourages believers to remain faithful during difficult times, trusting in God's provision and plan.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
Ruth's account highlights the significant role women play in God's redemptive history, challenging cultural norms of the time.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi reflect the biblical principle of loyalty, and how can we apply this in our own relationships?

2. In what ways does Ruth's account challenge the cultural and religious boundaries of her time, and what does this teach us about God's inclusivity?

3. How does the inclusion of Ruth in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1) enhance our understanding of God's redemptive plan?

4. What can we learn from Naomi's response to her circumstances, and how can we apply this to our own experiences of loss and hardship?

5. How does the account of Ruth encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when our circumstances seem unfavorable?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The origin of the Moabites is traced back to Lot, providing context for the cultural and historical tensions between Moab and Israel.

Deuteronomy 23
Discusses the exclusion of Moabites from the assembly of the Lord, highlighting the significance of Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of David and ultimately Jesus.

Matthew 1
Ruth is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, emphasizing God's redemptive plan through unexpected means.