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Ruth 1:12

Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons;

Ruth 1:12 · King James Version

Meaning

Within this verse from the book of Ruth in the Bible, we see Naomi, the mother-in-law of Ruth and Orpah, advising her daughters-in-law to return to their homeland after the death of their husbands. Naomi, feeling too old to remarry and bear children, encourages the young women to go back to their families and seek new husbands in order to have a chance at a better future. By expressing her inability to provide them with the security of a husband and children, she is acknowledging the limitations of her own situation. This verse reflects the selflessness and concern Naomi has for the well-being of Ruth and Orpah, as she puts their needs before her own desires. It demonstrates the importance of family bonds and the sacrifices one may make for the happiness of loved ones. Naomi's words convey a sense of practicality and wisdom, as she navigates the challenges of her circumstances with grace and compassion.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Ruth, Naomi is speaking to her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. Naomi is urging them to return to their homes after the deaths of their husbands, as she believes she is too old to remarry and provide them with new husbands. The word "hope" in this verse is significant as it conveys Naomi's sense of uncertainty and resignation. The idea of bearing sons is also important, as it alludes to the continuation of a family line and the security that sons can provide in ancient society. Through theological interpretation, this verse can be seen as a reflection on the themes of loss, loyalty, and the importance of family relationships. Naomi's words highlight her selflessness and concern for her daughters-in-law, even as she faces her own hardships and struggles.

Ruth 1:12 in other translations

American Standard Version

Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should even have a husband to-night, and should also bear sons;

World English Bible

Go back, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say, ‘I have hope,’ if I should even have a husband tonight, and should also bear sons;

Douay-Rheims

Return again, my daughters, and go your ways: for I am now spent with age, and not fit for wedlock. Although I might conceive this night, and bear children,

Geneva Bible (1599)

Turne againe, my daughters: go your way: for I am too olde to haue an husband. If I should say, I haue hope, and if I had an husband this night: yea, if I had borne sonnes,