Naomi, a widow who has lost her two sons, is speaking to her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. She is urging them to return to their own families rather than stay with her, as she has no more sons to offer them as husbands. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, a woman's security and social standing were closely tied to her male relatives. Naomi's rhetorical questions highlight the improbability of her being able to provide new husbands for them, emphasizing her own sense of helplessness and bitterness. She feels that her misfortunes are a result of the Lord's disfavor, which adds to her sorrow. Naomi's words reflect a deep love and concern for her daughters-in-law, as she wishes them a better life than the one she can offer. This poignant moment underscores the themes of loyalty, love, and the struggle with faith in the face of adversity, setting the stage for Ruth's famous declaration of loyalty and the unfolding of God's providence in their lives.
would you wait until they grew up? Would you remain unmarried for them? No, my daughters. It is more bitter for me than for you, because the LORD’s hand has turned against me!”
Ruth 1:13
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