Old Testament
Ruth 1:11
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But Naomi said, "Go home, my daughters. Why would you come with me? Do you think I can have more sons who could become your husbands?"
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And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands?
What Ruth 1:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Naomi is speaking to her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, urging them to return to their own families. She questions why they would want to accompany her back to Bethlehem, suggesting that she cannot provide them with new husbands, as she is too old to bear more children. Naomi's concern reflects her understanding of the cultural expectations of the time, where women relied on marriage for security and support. By encouraging them to leave, she is showing her selflessness and desire for their well-being, even at the cost of her own companionship. This moment highlights the deep bond between Naomi and her daughters-in-law, as well as the difficult choices they face in a patriarchal society. Naomi's words reveal her sense of hopelessness and the challenges of her situation, as she feels unable to fulfill the role of a provider for them. Ultimately, this verse sets the stage for the decisions that Ruth and Orpah will make regarding their loyalty to Naomi and their future.
How to apply Ruth 1:11 to your life
This verse teaches us about the importance of selflessness in relationships. We should consider the needs and well-being of others, even when it means making sacrifices. It encourages us to support loved ones in their difficult decisions, showing compassion and understanding in their struggles.
Curated for this public verse page. Ruth Summary
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Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: “Whither Thou Goest, I Will Go” (Ruth 1:6–18)
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Ruth
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Ruth 1:11
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Ruth
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ruth 1:11 mean?
Ruth 1:11 shows Naomi urging her daughters-in-law to return to their families, expressing her inability to provide them with husbands. This reflects her selflessness and concern for their future in a society where marriage was crucial for women's security.
What is the significance of Naomi's words in Ruth 1:11?
Naomi's words highlight her understanding of cultural expectations regarding marriage and her desire for her daughters-in-law's well-being. By encouraging them to leave, she demonstrates her love and selflessness, even in her own time of despair.
What does Naomi mean by not being able to have more sons in Ruth 1:11?
In Ruth 1:11, Naomi implies that she is too old to bear more children, which would traditionally provide husbands for her daughters-in-law. This statement emphasizes her feelings of hopelessness and the limited options available to women in her situation.
How does Ruth 1:11 reflect family bonds?
Ruth 1:11 illustrates the strong bond between Naomi and her daughters-in-law, as she prioritizes their future happiness over her own companionship. This moment captures the emotional struggle of familial love and the difficult choices they face.
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