The term "Her People" is often used in biblical contexts to refer to the people associated with a particular woman, often highlighting her influence, heritage, or the community to which she belongs. This phrase can be seen in various narratives throughout the Bible, where women play pivotal roles in the unfolding of God's plan and the history of Israel.

Ruth and Naomi

One of the most notable instances of "her people" is found in the Book of Ruth. Ruth, a Moabite woman, becomes intricately connected to the people of Israel through her loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi. After the death of her husband, Ruth chooses to stay with Naomi rather than return to her own people. Her famous declaration is recorded in Ruth 1:16 : "But Ruth replied: 'Do not urge me to leave you or to turn from following you. For where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.'" This statement signifies Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her adoption of Naomi's people and faith as her own. Ruth's integration into the Israelite community ultimately leads to her becoming the great-grandmother of King David, placing her in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

Esther and the Jewish People

Another significant example is Queen Esther, whose account is recounted in the Book of Esther. Esther, a Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia, is faced with the challenge of saving her people from a decree of destruction. Her cousin Mordecai urges her to use her royal position to intercede on behalf of the Jews. Esther 4:14 records Mordecai's words: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther's bravery and strategic intervention lead to the salvation of her people, highlighting her role as a deliverer and protector of the Jewish nation.

Mary, Mother of Jesus

Mary, the mother of Jesus, is another figure whose people are significant in the biblical narrative. As a young Jewish woman, Mary is chosen by God to bear the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Her response to the angel Gabriel's announcement is one of humble acceptance and faith. In Luke 1:38 , Mary responds, "I am the Lord’s servant... May it happen to me according to your word." Mary's role as the mother of Jesus places her at the heart of the Christian account, and her people, the Israelites, are the recipients of God's promises fulfilled through her son.

The Church as Her People

In the New Testament, the concept of "her people" can also be applied to the Church, often depicted as the Bride of Christ. The Church is composed of believers from all nations, united as one people through faith in Jesus Christ. This spiritual community is described in 1 Peter 2:9 : "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." The Church, as the Bride, is called to be faithful and to reflect the character of Christ to the world.

Throughout the Bible, the phrase "her people" underscores the significant roles women play in God's redemptive history and the communities they influence. Whether through acts of loyalty, courage, or faith, these women and their people are integral to the unfolding of God's purposes.