Ruth 1:7

Letters to the Faithful - Ruth 1:7

Berean Standard Bible

Accompanied by her two daughters-in-law, she left the place where she had been living and set out on the road leading back to the land of Judah.

King James Bible

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.

Hebrew Text:

וַתֵּצֵ֗א מִן־הַמָּקֹום֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הָיְתָה־שָׁ֔מָּה וּשְׁתֵּ֥י כַלֹּתֶ֖יהָ עִמָּ֑הּ וַתֵּלַ֣כְנָה בַדֶּ֔רֶךְ לָשׁ֖וּב אֶל־אֶ֥רֶץ יְהוּדָֽה׃

Transliteration:

Vatteitze min-hamakom asher hayta-shamah ushtei kalloteha imah vatteilechna baderech lashuv el-eretz Yehudah.

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Accompanied by her two daughters-in-law

Naomi's daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, are significant figures in this narrative. Their willingness to accompany Naomi highlights the strong familial bonds and loyalty that existed despite the cultural and religious differences. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the bond between a mother-in-law and her daughters-in-law was crucial, especially after the death of the husbands. This phrase sets the stage for the unfolding story of loyalty and devotion, particularly Ruth's, which becomes a central theme in the book.

she left the place where she had been living

Naomi had been living in Moab, a region east of the Dead Sea, for about ten years. Moab was often in conflict with Israel, and its people were descendants of Lot. The decision to leave Moab signifies a turning point for Naomi, as she seeks to return to her homeland after the deaths of her husband and sons. This departure can be seen as a step of faith, leaving behind a place of sorrow and loss to return to her roots in Judah.

and set out on the road leading back to the land of Judah

The journey from Moab to Judah was not just a physical journey but also a spiritual and emotional one. Judah, specifically Bethlehem, is significant as it is the land of Naomi's origin and the future birthplace of King David and Jesus Christ. This return to Judah symbolizes a return to God's covenant land and His people. The road to Judah represents a path of hope and redemption, foreshadowing the restoration and blessings that will come through Ruth's eventual marriage to Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer, which is a type of Christ.

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Ruth 1:7, which in the New International Version reads, "With her two daughters-in-law she left the place where she had been living and set out on the road that would take them back to the land of Judah," marks a critical juncture in the narrative of the Book of Ruth, encapsulating themes of loyalty, transition, and divine providence within a concise yet evocative verse. This verse occurs early in the story, as Naomi, widowed and bereaved of her two sons, decides to return to Bethlehem from Moab after hearing that the famine in Judah has ended. Accompanied by her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, Naomi’s departure from Moab sets the stage for the unfolding drama of faith, commitment, and redemption that defines the book. To fully appreciate Ruth 1:7, one must examine its narrative context, theological significance, cultural and historical setting, literary artistry, and its enduring resonance for readers across time.

The verse is situated in the opening chapter of Ruth, which establishes the backdrop of loss and displacement. Naomi, an Israelite woman, had migrated to Moab with her husband, Elimelek, and their two sons to escape a famine in Bethlehem (Ruth 1:1-2). In Moab, tragedy strikes: Elimelek dies, the sons marry Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah, and then the sons also die, leaving Naomi and her daughters-in-law widowed (Ruth 1:3-5). Verse 6 reveals that Naomi hears “in the fields of Moab” that the Lord has come to the aid of His people in Judah by providing food, prompting her decision to return home. Ruth 1:7 thus describes the initial action of this return journey, as Naomi, with Ruth and Orpah, leaves “the place where she had been living” and sets out toward Judah. The phrase “the place where she had been living” (likely a reference to a specific locale in Moab) underscores Naomi’s status as a sojourner, a foreigner in a land not her own, while “the road that would take them back to the land of Judah” signals a physical and symbolic movement toward restoration and belonging.

Narratively, Ruth 1:7 serves as a pivot, transitioning from the exposition of loss to the unfolding of the characters’ choices and relationships. The verse immediately precedes the poignant dialogue where Naomi urges Ruth and Orpah to return to their families in Moab (Ruth 1:8-16), leading to Orpah’s departure and Ruth’s steadfast commitment to stay with Naomi. The act of setting out together highlights the initial unity of the three women, bound by shared grief and mutual care, yet it also foreshadows the divergence in their paths. The inclusion of “her two daughters-in-law” emphasizes the familial bond, as Ruth and Orpah are not obligated to follow Naomi but choose to accompany her, at least initially. This sets up Ruth’s later declaration of loyalty (Ruth 1:16-17) as a climactic moment, contrasting with Orpah’s reasonable but less resolute decision to return home. The verse, therefore, is a narrative hinge, capturing a moment of collective action before individual choices reshape the story’s trajectory.

Theologically, Ruth 1:7 reflects the subtle workings of divine providence, a central theme in the book. While God is not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the broader context suggests His involvement. Naomi’s decision to return is prompted by news of God’s provision in Judah (Ruth 1:6), and her journey back to Bethlehem aligns with the divine purpose that will unfold through Ruth’s inclusion in Israel’s covenant community and the lineage of David (Ruth 4:17-22). The act of leaving Moab and heading toward Judah symbolizes a return to the sphere of God’s covenant promises, as Judah represents the land of Israel’s inheritance and Bethlehem the “house of bread” where God’s blessing is renewed. For the original audience, likely post-exilic Israelites, this movement from exile to restoration would have resonated deeply, affirming God’s faithfulness to bring His people back to their inheritance, even through unlikely figures like a Moabite widow. Ruth 1:7, then, invites reflection on how God orchestrates redemption through human decisions, often in ways that are not immediately apparent.

Culturally and historically, the verse is rooted in the social realities of the ancient Near East, particularly during the period of the judges (Ruth 1:1), though the book may have been written or finalized later, possibly in the monarchic or post-exilic period. Widows like Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah were among the most vulnerable in ancient society, lacking male protectors and economic security. Naomi’s decision to return to Bethlehem reflects both desperation and hope, as she seeks to rejoin her community where she might find support under Israel’s covenantal laws, such as the provision for gleaning (Leviticus 19:9-10) or the role of a kinsman-redeemer (Leviticus 25:25). The journey from Moab to Judah, a distance of roughly 50-60 miles across rugged terrain and the Jordan River, would have been arduous, especially for three women traveling alone. The cultural divide between Moab and Israel is also significant, as Moabites were often viewed with suspicion by Israelites due to historical conflicts and religious differences (Numbers 25:1-3). Ruth’s presence as a Moabite accompanying Naomi thus introduces an element of tension, highlighting the radical inclusivity of God’s plan, which transcends ethnic and social boundaries.

Literarily, Ruth 1:7 is a model of economy and precision, conveying rich meaning through sparse prose. The phrase “she left the place where she had been living” evokes a sense of finality, as Naomi severs ties with Moab, the site of her losses, and embraces an uncertain future. The verb “set out” (Hebrew yalak, “to go”) carries a sense of purposeful movement, suggesting determination despite the risks. The mention of “the road” to Judah conjures an image of a literal and metaphorical path, a motif that resonates throughout Scripture as a symbol of life’s journey under God’s guidance (Psalm 119:105). The verse’s structure, with its focus on collective action (“with her two daughters-in-law”), creates a sense of solidarity that heightens the emotional weight of the subsequent separation. The narrative’s understated style invites readers to imagine the women’s emotions—grief, hope, fear—as they embark on this journey, setting the stage for the character development that follows.

For modern readers, Ruth 1:7 offers profound insights into themes of faith, community, and resilience. Naomi’s decision to return to Judah, despite her losses, models a courageous step toward hope, trusting that God’s provision awaits. Ruth and Orpah’s initial choice to accompany her reflects the power of relational bonds, even in the face of cultural and personal challenges. The verse challenges contemporary audiences to consider how they respond to seasons of loss or transition, encouraging movement toward God’s promises rather than remaining in despair. Ruth’s eventual role as a foreigner integrated into Israel’s story also speaks to issues of inclusion and diversity, reminding readers of God’s heart for the marginalized and the unexpected ways He works through them. In a broader biblical context, Ruth 1:7 points to the redemptive arc of Scripture, as Ruth’s journey to Bethlehem foreshadows the birth of David and, ultimately, Jesus, the Messiah (Matthew 1:5-16).

The verse also invites reflection on the concept of home and belonging. For Naomi, returning to Judah is a homecoming, a reclaiming of her identity within God’s covenant people. For Ruth, it is a step into the unknown, leaving her homeland for a new community. This dynamic resonates with modern experiences of migration, displacement, or spiritual seeking, where individuals navigate the tension between familiarity and new beginnings. The road to Judah becomes a symbol of faith’s journey, trusting God’s guidance through uncertainty. Additionally, the vulnerability of the three women underscores the biblical call to care for the widow and the foreigner (Deuteronomy 10:18), urging communities to offer support to those in need.

In conclusion, Ruth 1:7 is a deceptively simple verse that carries profound narrative, theological, and cultural weight. It captures a moment of transition, as Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah set out from Moab toward Judah, embodying hope, loyalty, and the risks of faith. The verse reflects God’s providence in directing His people, the power of human relationships to shape divine purposes, and the promise of restoration even after loss. Its literary artistry and historical context enrich its meaning, while its themes of movement, inclusion, and trust resonate with contemporary readers. As a small but significant step in the story of Ruth, this verse points to the larger story of God’s redemptive work, weaving together individual lives into a tapestry of grace that spans generations and culminates in the salvation of Jesus’s humanity.

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Grace and peace to you, dearly loved brothers and sisters, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May the Holy Spirit strengthen your hearts as you read these words, and may your faith be renewed through the encouragement of the Scriptures and the fellowship of all who call upon the name of the Lord.

Today I write to you concerning a passage of great significance, though small in appearance — a moment in the unfolding story of redemption recorded in the book of Ruth. It is written, “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” (Ruth 1:7). Beloved, though the words may seem simple, they bear profound truths for all who seek the ways of God.

Naomi, having suffered loss and sorrow, chose to arise from the land of Moab, a place of hardship and broken dreams, to return to Judah, the land of promise and the presence of God’s covenant people. In this act of setting out, she demonstrated a heart willing to turn toward hope, despite the pain of her circumstances. She did not remain in bitterness, nor did she cling to what was familiar yet fruitless. Instead, she chose the difficult path of return, guided by the whisper of God’s faithfulness and the news that the Lord had visited His people and given them bread.

In this, we see a living example of repentance and restoration. Naomi’s journey was not merely a change of location but a movement of the heart. It was an acknowledgment that life apart from the blessing of God is empty, and that His mercies, though sometimes hidden, await those who return to Him.

Likewise, dear ones, each of us is called to arise from the places of our personal Moab — from the lands of compromise, grief, sin, or weariness — and turn again toward the fullness of life found in Christ. How often we are tempted to remain where we are, paralyzed by regret, shame, or comfort in the familiar! Yet the Spirit calls us onward, inviting us to trust that the Lord’s provision is greater than our past, and His grace is more than sufficient for our present.

Consider also the beauty of Naomi’s companions, her daughters-in-law, who began the journey with her. Though one would turn back, Ruth would cling to Naomi and ultimately to Naomi’s God. Herein lies a lesson about community and discipleship. When we set out to follow God, we seldom walk alone. Our journeys of faith are interwoven with the lives of others. Some may accompany us for a season; others will remain steadfast through every trial. We must walk with humility, openness, and love, inviting others to taste and see the goodness of the Lord alongside us.

Therefore, beloved, take courage. Do not despise the small beginnings, nor underestimate the power of one step taken in faith. The road back to the place of God’s blessing may be long, and the way may be uncertain, but the God who calls us is faithful. Every turning of the heart toward Him is met with His mercy; every step toward His promises draws us nearer to His embrace.

Let us be a people who arise daily, choosing to set out from whatever holds us captive. Let us encourage one another as fellow travelers on the way, extending grace and compassion to those who hesitate or struggle. Let us remember that the land of Judah — the place of God’s presence, peace, and provision — is not merely a distant hope but a present reality for all who walk by faith in Christ Jesus.

May the Lord strengthen your hands for the journey ahead. May your hearts be steadfast, trusting in His unfailing love. And may you, like Naomi and Ruth, find that the path of return leads not to emptiness, but to unexpected joy and a renewed inheritance in the household of God.

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

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O Sovereign Lord, everlasting and merciful God,

we lift our hearts to You, the God of every returning soul,

the One who calls us from barren places into lands of promise and hope.

You who see the secret griefs and silent tears of Your children,

You who do not forget those who feel forsaken or weary in the land of their sojourn—

hear us now as we come before You with humble hearts, drawn by Your unending love.

Lord, as Naomi arose from the place where she was,

as she set out with her daughters-in-law upon the way back to Judah,

so too we would rise this day, forsaking the fields of emptiness and sorrow,

leaving behind all that binds and blinds,

and turning our faces again toward You, the Giver of every good and perfect gift.

Grant us, O Lord, the courage to step forward when the way is uncertain,

the strength to lift our feet even when weariness weighs upon us,

and the faith to believe that there is still bread in Your house,

still mercy in Your heart, still a future held in Your hands.

Forgive us, Father, for the times we have remained too long in the land of Moab—

in compromise, in fear, in doubt, in bitterness.

Cleanse us from all that clings to us and renew a right spirit within us.

As You called Naomi to return, so call us now, O Shepherd of our souls.

As she traveled with companions, remind us that we, too, walk not alone—

that we are bound to one another in love,

that we are pilgrims together toward the home prepared for us in You.

Bless our fellow travelers:

those whose faith is fragile, whose hope is faint, whose burdens are many.

Grant us the grace to walk together with gentleness and patience,

encouraging one another as long as it is called "today."

Lord of the harvest, as Naomi heard of Your provision and was stirred to move,

may we also be attentive to the reports of Your goodness,

the testimony of Your faithfulness,

the whispers of grace that call us out of despair into delight in You.

And as we set our feet upon the path of return—

whether from sin or sorrow, from self-reliance or shame—

may we be met at every turn by Your lovingkindness.

May the road, though marked with trials, be brightened by the light of Your presence.

O God of restoration,

You who make beauty from ashes and joy from mourning,

we entrust ourselves anew to You this day.

Restore to us the joy of our salvation.

Renew our strength as we wait upon You.

Cause our hearts to sing again with hope,

even as we journey forward by faith and not by sight.

And when we reach the land of promise—

whether in this life or in the life to come—

may we testify with grateful lips that You have done great things for us,

that Your mercies were new every morning,

and that not one of Your promises failed.

To You be all glory, honor, and praise, now and forever,

through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,

one God, world without end. Amen.