Old Testament
Ruth 1:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She told them, "Don't call me Naomi. Call me Mara, because the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me."
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And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me.
What Ruth 1:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Naomi expresses her deep sorrow and bitterness after experiencing significant loss and hardship. The name 'Naomi' means 'pleasant,' while 'Mara' means 'bitter.' By asking to be called Mara, she reflects her feelings of despair and the pain she believes God has allowed in her life. Naomi feels that her circumstances have turned her life from one of joy to one of bitterness, indicating her struggle with faith and understanding of God's will. This moment highlights the emotional turmoil she is facing as she returns to Bethlehem after losing her husband and sons. It serves as a poignant reminder of how life's challenges can lead to feelings of abandonment and sorrow, even for those who have faith. Naomi's honesty about her feelings encourages others to acknowledge their struggles and seek support in difficult times.
How to apply Ruth 1:20 to your life
When facing hardships, it's important to express our feelings honestly, just as Naomi did. Sharing our struggles with others can foster support and understanding. Remember that even in times of bitterness, we can seek hope and healing through community and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Ruth Summary
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Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Home to Bethlehem (Ruth 1:19–22)
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Ruth
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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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 1:20 mean?
Ruth 1:20 captures Naomi's deep sorrow after losing her husband and sons. She asks to be called Mara, meaning 'bitter,' to reflect her feelings of despair and the hardships she has faced.
What is the significance of the names Naomi and Mara in Ruth 1:20?
In Ruth 1:20, Naomi means 'pleasant' and Mara means 'bitter.' By choosing to be called Mara, Naomi highlights her transformation from a life of joy to one filled with bitterness due to her losses.
What emotions does Naomi express in Ruth 1:20?
Naomi expresses profound sorrow and bitterness in Ruth 1:20. Her request to be called Mara indicates her struggle with grief and her feelings of abandonment by God.
What does Ruth 1:20 reveal about Naomi's faith?
Ruth 1:20 reveals Naomi's struggle with her faith amidst suffering. While she acknowledges God's role in her bitterness, her honesty about her feelings shows a complex relationship with her faith during difficult times.
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