Old Testament
Ruth 1:8
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Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, "Go, return each to your mother's house. May the LORD deal kindly with you, as you have dealt with the dead and with me."
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And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother’s house: the LORD deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me.
What Ruth 1:8 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 after the death of their husbands. She expresses her hope that God will show them kindness, just as they have shown kindness to her and their deceased husbands. This moment highlights Naomi's selflessness; despite her own grief, she prioritizes the well-being of her daughters-in-law. By encouraging them to go back to their mothers' homes, she acknowledges the cultural expectation for widows to return to their families for support. Naomi's blessing for the LORD to deal kindly with them reflects her faith in God's goodness and mercy. This verse sets the stage for the choices that Ruth and Orpah will make, showcasing themes of loyalty, love, and the bonds of family. It also emphasizes the importance of kindness in relationships, especially during difficult times, as Naomi recognizes the care they have shown her during their shared loss.
How to apply Ruth 1:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to show kindness to others, especially during tough times. It reminds us to prioritize the needs of those we love, even when we are facing our own challenges. We can reflect on how our actions impact others and strive to be supportive and compassionate.
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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Related Bible verses
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 1:8 mean?
Ruth 1:8 shows Naomi urging her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, to return to their families after the loss of their husbands. She expresses hope that God will show them kindness, reflecting her selflessness and concern for their well-being during her own grief.
What is the significance of Naomi's blessing in Ruth 1:8?
Naomi's blessing in Ruth 1:8 highlights her faith in God's kindness and mercy. By wishing for the LORD to deal kindly with her daughters-in-law, she acknowledges their loyalty and care during a difficult time, emphasizing the importance of kindness in relationships.
What themes are present in Ruth 1:8?
Ruth 1:8 encompasses themes of kindness, loyalty, family, grief, faith, and selflessness. It illustrates the bonds of family and the importance of supporting one another during challenging times.
Why does Naomi tell her daughters-in-law to return home in Ruth 1:8?
Naomi tells her daughters-in-law to return home in Ruth 1:8 to prioritize their well-being and encourage them to seek support from their own families after the loss of their husbands.
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