Ruth 1:15

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.

Ruth 1:15 (KJV)

Context

The book of Ruth is a beautiful narrative found in the Old Testament. It tells the story of a Moabite woman named Ruth, who demonstrated great loyalty and faithfulness. Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi, had experienced significant loss in her life, and Ruth chose to accompany Naomi back to the land of Judah, despite the cultural and societal challenges she would face as a foreigner.

In Ruth 1:15, Naomi urges her daughter-in-law Ruth to return to her own people and gods, after Ruth’s sister-in-law Orpah had decided to do so. Naomi recognized the challenges that Ruth would face in a foreign land, among a people who did not worship the same God as Ruth.

Meaning

Naomi’s words highlight that Orpah’s departure was not merely a physical return to her homeland, but also a return to her people and her gods. The phrase “her gods” is significant, indicating a return to the pagan deities of Moab. The Hebrew word for “sister-in-law” (yevamah) specifically refers to a wife of a husband’s brother, identifying Orpah as such. This verse sets the stage for Ruth’s famous response in Ruth 1:16-17, where she commits to Naomi, her people, and her God.

Biblical connections

The immediate context shows Naomi’s deep concern for Ruth’s welfare, as she recognizes the challenges Ruth would face as a foreigner in Judah. The verse also implicitly contrasts Orpah’s choice to return to Moab’s gods with Ruth’s subsequent choice to cling to Naomi and, by extension, to the God of Israel. The narrative is set during the time of the judges, a period of spiritual decline in Israel, which makes Ruth’s later commitment to the God of Israel all the more striking.

Application

Ruth’s story teaches several important lessons. First, it reminds us of the value of loyalty, faithfulness, and commitment even in difficult circumstances. It challenges us to consider our own relationships and the ways we can demonstrate love and loyalty to others. Second, Ruth’s choice to follow God encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. Just as Ruth left behind her old gods and embraced the God of Israel, we should be willing to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with God and fully commit ourselves to Him.

Reflection

Ruth 1:15 showcases Naomi’s unwavering commitment to Ruth and Ruth’s decision to follow the God of Israel, reminding believers today to remain steadfast in our relationships and devotion to God.