Ruth - Chapter-1

Chapter Summary

Naomi departs from Moab and returns with Ruth to Bethlehem.

What do we know about the period of the judges? In what ways does that backdrop affect our understanding of this story?
Do you think Elimelek should have left the promised land to go to Moab? What criteria do we use to make decisions about leaving a difficult situation? Are they biblical reasons?
How many times does the writer mention the home town of Naomi's family? What is the significance of the town of Bethlehem?
What characteristics does Ruth show in this chapter? How could we apply those characteristics in a significant relationship?
What emotions does Naomi display in this chapter and why? How would you offer comfort to someone in Naomi's situation?
What motivated Ruth and Orpah in their different decisions regarding where to start a new life? Can we learn anything about their character from this decision? Are there any lessons we can apply to ourselves ?
How would you describe Naomi's relationship with God at this point? Have there been times when your relationship with God has been similar? What did you learn from this experience?
In what ways is God at work in the events of this chapter? What do we know about his work that Ruth and Naomi do not? When you look back at your life, what can you see now that you did not at that time?
How many times does the writer mention the word “return” or “go back”? what significance is there in the repetition?
What is happening in Bethlehem when the women arrive? How is that significant for the women's story?

Fidelity, v. 17.

God, Naomi, Ruth, Orpah, Elimelech, Mahlon, Chllion.

16, 17.