What is the meaning of Ruth 1:8? Then Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law Naomi has just buried her husband and both sons (Ruth 1:3-5), yet she turns from her own grief to speak life-directing words to Orpah and Ruth. • Her initiative pictures an older believer guiding the younger, much like the pattern in Titus 2:3-4—seasoned faith offering counsel in crisis. • Even in sorrow she models Proverbs 31:26, opening her mouth with wisdom and kindness. • Psalm 34:18 reminds us that “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted,” and Naomi’s very ability to speak is evidence of that nearness. Go back, each of you to your mother’s home By releasing the women, Naomi lays down her own comfort for their future: • Security and Provision—returning to the maternal household offered food, shelter, and the hope of remarriage (compare Genesis 24:28; Songs 3:4). • Freedom of Choice—she refuses to bind them to a difficult life in Bethlehem (cf. 1 Corinthians 7:8-9 on the freedom to marry). • Selfless Love—Philippians 2:4 calls believers to look to the interests of others; Naomi lives that out here. May the LORD show you loving devotion Naomi’s blessing reaches higher than mere good wishes: • She invokes “the LORD,” Israel’s covenant God, not the idols of Moab (see 1 Kings 18:39 for the exclusivity of the LORD). • “Loving devotion” (hesed) describes God’s loyal, covenant love (Psalm 57:10; Exodus 34:6). • Numbers 6:24-26 models a similar benediction, underscoring that true security flows from the LORD’s steadfast kindness. as you have shown to your dead and to me Naomi affirms the tangible faithfulness of Ruth and Orpah: • Their care for their deceased husbands mirrors the honor urged in Exodus 20:12 and 1 Timothy 5:4. • Loyal love toward Naomi herself fulfills Proverbs 17:17—“A friend loves at all times.” • In 2 Samuel 2:5-6 David blesses men who showed kindness to the dead; Naomi’s words echo that same commendation. summary Ruth 1:8 captures sacrificial love on every side. Naomi, though grieving, releases her daughters-in-law for their good; Orpah and Ruth have already modeled loyal devotion; and over it all Naomi calls on the LORD to extend His steadfast love. The verse invites us to trust God’s covenant kindness, pursue the well-being of others even in our pain, and celebrate every act of ordinary faithfulness as evidence of His faithful care. |
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