Ruth 1:19

So Naomi and Ruth traveled until they came to Bethlehem. When they entered Bethlehem, the whole city was stirred because of them, and the women of the city exclaimed, "Can this be Naomi?"

Study Bible

So Naomi and Ruth traveled until they came to Bethlehem.
Naomi and Ruth's journey from Moab to Bethlehem is significant, covering approximately 50 miles through rugged terrain. Bethlehem, meaning "House of Bread," is a town in Judah, known as the future birthplace of King David and Jesus Christ, linking Ruth to the Davidic line. This journey symbolizes a return to God's provision and covenant land, contrasting Moab, often associated with idolatry and judgment. Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her God reflects a profound conversion and loyalty, prefiguring Gentile inclusion in God's redemptive plan.

When they entered Bethlehem, the whole town was stirred because of them,
The arrival of Naomi and Ruth causes a commotion, indicating Naomi's previous status and the town's small, close-knit nature. The Hebrew word for "stirred" suggests a significant emotional reaction, possibly due to Naomi's changed appearance and circumstances. This scene sets the stage for the unfolding of God's providence and foreshadows the impact Ruth will have on the community and Israel's history. The town's reaction also highlights the cultural importance of community and kinship in ancient Israel.

and the women of the town exclaimed, “Can this be Naomi?”
The women's question reflects surprise and perhaps pity, as Naomi's return contrasts with her previous departure with a full family. Her name, meaning "pleasant," now seems ironic given her hardships. This moment underscores themes of identity and transformation, as Naomi's experiences have reshaped her life. The women's role in the narrative emphasizes the communal aspect of Israelite society and sets up Naomi's lament in the following verses, where she expresses her bitterness and sense of loss. This exclamation also foreshadows the restoration and redemption that will come through Ruth's actions and God's intervention.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite woman, widow of Mahlon, who shows loyalty and faithfulness by accompanying her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem.

2. Naomi
An Israelite woman who returns to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons in Moab. Her return causes a stir in the city.

3. Bethlehem
A town in Judah, significant as the birthplace of King David and later Jesus Christ. It is Naomi's original home, to which she returns.

4. The Women of Bethlehem
The local women who recognize Naomi and express surprise at her return, highlighting the change in her circumstances.

5. The Journey
The travel from Moab to Bethlehem, symbolizing a return to God's land and provision, and a step of faith for both Naomi and Ruth.

Teaching Points

Faithful Companionship
Ruth's loyalty to Naomi exemplifies the importance of steadfast relationships, especially in times of hardship.

God's Providence
Naomi's return to Bethlehem, despite her losses, shows trust in God's provision and plan, even when circumstances seem dire.

Community Response
The reaction of the women in Bethlehem highlights how communities can be both supportive and questioning, reminding us to be compassionate and understanding.

Identity and Transformation
Naomi's return and the question "Can this be Naomi?" reflect how life experiences can change us, and how God can use those changes for His purposes.

Hope in Return
The journey back to Bethlehem symbolizes hope and new beginnings, encouraging believers to return to God in times of need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ruth's decision to accompany Naomi reflect the biblical principle of loyalty and faithfulness, and how can we apply this in our relationships today?

2. In what ways does Naomi's return to Bethlehem demonstrate trust in God's provision, and how can we cultivate a similar trust in our own lives?

3. How does the reaction of the women in Bethlehem challenge us to respond to those who return to our communities after experiencing hardship?

4. What can we learn from Naomi's transformation and the question "Can this be Naomi?" about how God uses our life experiences for His purposes?

5. How does the theme of return in Ruth 1:19 connect with the broader biblical account of redemption and restoration, and how can this theme encourage us in our spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 35:19
Bethlehem is mentioned as the burial place of Rachel, connecting the town to Israel's patriarchal history.

Matthew 2:1
Bethlehem is identified as the birthplace of Jesus, linking Ruth's account to the lineage of Christ.

Luke 15:20
The return of Naomi to Bethlehem can be paralleled with the Prodigal Son's return, emphasizing themes of return and restoration.