“So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and they said, Is this Naomi?”
Historical and Contextual Background:The book of Ruth is set during the time of the judges in Israel, a period of spiritual and moral decline. It tells the story of a woman named Naomi, who, along with her husband and two sons, left Bethlehem during a famine to settle in Moab. Tragically, Naomi’s husband and sons died, leaving her and her Moabite daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, as widows.
Journey to Bethlehem:In Ruth 1:19, we find Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth returning to Bethlehem after living in Moab. Bethlehem held significance for Naomi because it was her hometown. The journey from Moab to Bethlehem was not an easy one, as it involved a significant distance and potentially dangerous conditions. However, Naomi and Ruth persevered and arrived safely in Bethlehem.
The Reaction of the People:Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, the city was stirred and moved by their return. The people recognised Naomi, but due to the hardships she had endured, they questioned if it was truly her. They exclaimed, “Is this Naomi?” This reaction suggests that Naomi’s appearance might have changed due to the hardships she faced or perhaps because many years had passed since she left Bethlehem.
Significance of the Reaction:The response of the people of Bethlehem to Naomi’s return serves as a reminder of the impact our experiences and circumstances can have on our lives. Naomi’s story reflects the bitter hardships and loss she had endured, causing her to be unrecognisable to those who knew her. This reaction highlights the transformative power of challenging circumstances, which can leave a lasting mark on an individual’s life.
Symbolism and Foreshadowing:The journey of Naomi and Ruth back to Bethlehem carries symbolic significance. Bethlehem, which means “house of bread,” is associated with provision and blessing. In a broader sense, it represents the restoration of God’s favour and blessing upon Naomi’s life. The return to Bethlehem foreshadows the greater plan that God had in store for Naomi and Ruth, leading to their encounter with Boaz and the eventual lineage of King David and Jesus Christ.
Lessons to Learn:
- Perseverance in Difficult Times:Naomi and Ruth’s journey back to Bethlehem demonstrates the importance of persevering through challenging circumstances. Despite the hardships they faced, they did not lose hope but pressed on toward a better future.
- God’s Faithfulness:The story of Ruth illustrates God’s faithfulness in providing for His people even in the midst of trials. God orchestrated events in Naomi and Ruth’s lives to bring about their restoration and redemption.
- The Power of Community:The reaction of the people of Bethlehem highlights the significance of community. Their concern for Naomi’s well-being demonstrates the importance of supporting and caring for one another.
In conclusion, Ruth 1:19 captures the moment when Naomi and Ruth returned to Bethlehem, eliciting surprise and questions from the people of the city. This verse sets the stage for the unfolding story of God’s providence and redemption in the lives of Naomi and Ruth. It reminds us of the transformative power of difficult circumstances, the faithfulness of God, and the significance of community in our lives.
