Ruth 1:9

May the LORD enable each of you to find rest in the home of your new husband." And she kissed them as they wept aloud

Study Bible

May the LORD grant
The invocation of the LORD here is significant, as it reflects Naomi's deep faith and reliance on Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "YHWH," which is the sacred, personal name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. Naomi's prayer is not just a wish but a profound invocation of divine blessing, acknowledging that true provision and peace come from God alone.

that each of you will find rest
The Hebrew word for "rest" is "מְנוּחָה" (menuchah), which implies a state of tranquility, security, and peace. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a woman's rest was often found in the security of marriage and family. Naomi's desire for her daughters-in-law is that they find a place of safety and provision, reflecting the cultural importance of marriage as a source of stability and protection.

in the home of another husband
This phrase underscores the cultural and social norms of the time, where a woman's identity and security were closely tied to her marital status. The Hebrew word for "home" is "בַּיִת" (bayit), which can also mean household or family. Naomi's blessing is both practical and compassionate, recognizing the need for her daughters-in-law to find new families and husbands who can provide for them, especially in a patriarchal society where widows were vulnerable.

Then she kissed them
The act of kissing here is a gesture of deep affection and farewell. In the ancient world, a kiss was a common expression of love, respect, and parting. Naomi's kiss is a poignant moment of emotional connection, signifying her genuine love and care for Orpah and Ruth, even as she releases them to pursue new lives.

and they wept aloud
The weeping aloud indicates the depth of emotion and the strong bonds of love and loyalty between Naomi and her daughters-in-law. In Hebrew culture, public expressions of grief and emotion were common, and this shared weeping highlights the pain of separation and the uncertainty of their future. It also foreshadows the deep loyalty and commitment that Ruth will later demonstrate, setting the stage for the unfolding narrative of faithfulness and redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Naomi
A widow from Bethlehem who lost her husband and two sons while living in Moab. She is returning to her homeland and is concerned for the future of her daughters-in-law.

2. Ruth
One of Naomi's Moabite daughters-in-law, who shows great loyalty and faithfulness to Naomi.

3. Orpah
Naomi's other Moabite daughter-in-law, who initially sets out with Naomi but eventually returns to her own people.

4. Moab
The land where Naomi and her family had moved to escape famine in Bethlehem. It is a place of foreign gods and culture, contrasting with Naomi's faith in the LORD.

5. Bethlehem
Naomi's original home, symbolizing a return to her roots and faith community.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Rest and Security
Naomi's blessing highlights the human need for rest and security, which is ultimately found in God's provision and design for family and community.

Faith in God's Provision
Naomi's invocation of the LORD's blessing demonstrates her faith in God's ability to provide for her daughters-in-law, even in uncertain circumstances.

The Role of Family and Community
The passage underscores the importance of family and community support, especially during times of transition and loss.

Loyalty and Commitment
Ruth's eventual decision to stay with Naomi exemplifies loyalty and commitment, qualities that are highly valued in relationships.

Trusting God's Plan
Despite the immediate sorrow and uncertainty, Naomi's faith in God's plan for her daughters-in-law encourages believers to trust in God's overarching plan for their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Naomi's blessing for her daughters-in-law reflect her faith in God's provision, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the concept of "rest" in Ruth 1:9 relate to the rest that Jesus offers in Matthew 11:28-30?

3. How can the loyalty and commitment demonstrated by Ruth inspire us in our relationships with family and friends?

4. What role does community play in providing rest and security, and how can we contribute to this in our own faith communities?

5. How can we find peace and rest in God's plan during times of transition and uncertainty, as Naomi and her daughters-in-law faced?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:24
The concept of finding rest in the home of a husband connects to the biblical principle of marriage as a union where one finds companionship and support.

Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus invites those who are weary to find rest in Him, paralleling Naomi's wish for her daughters-in-law to find rest and security.

Proverbs 31:10-31
The virtuous woman described here reflects the qualities Ruth will later embody, showing the value of faithfulness and diligence in a household.