Ruth 1:2
And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there.
Ruth 1:2 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Book of Ruth, we are introduced to a family from Bethlehemjudah - Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons Mahlon and Chilion. The names of the family members provide insight into their background and identity as Ephrathites from Bethlehemjudah, a significant detail as it establishes their heritage and origins. The decision to leave their homeland and settle in the country of Moab is a key turning point in their story, as it sets the stage for the events that unfold later on. By including these specific names and locations, the verse sets the scene for the challenges and trials that the family will face as they navigate a new land and culture. It also foreshadows the themes of loss, loyalty, and redemption that will be central to the narrative. Overall, this verse serves as the introduction to the journey of Elimelech, Naomi, and their sons, laying the foundation for the events that will shape their lives and relationships in the chapters to come.
Theological Overview
Elimelech, whose name means "God is my king," along with his wife Naomi, meaning "pleasant," and their two sons Mahlon and Chilion, who were Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah, decided to leave their homeland and travel to the country of Moab due to a famine in Bethlehemjudah. The names of the family members carry significance when viewed through a theological lens. Elimelech's name reflects his belief in God's kingship and authority, while Naomi's name emphasizes her pleasant demeanor and character. The two sons, Mahlon and Chilion, names mean "sickly" and "pining," hinting at the struggles and challenges the family may face in their journey to Moab. This verse serves as the starting point for the narrative of Naomi's family and sets the stage for the trials and tribulations they will endure, leading to a deeper examination of faith, loyalty, and God's providence.
Ruth 1:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Beth-lehem-judah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there.
World English Bible
The name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehem Judah. They came into the country of Moab, and continued there.
Douay-Rheims
He was named Elimelech, and his wife Noemi: and his two sons, the one Mahalon, and the other Chelion, Ephrathites of Bethlehem Juda. And entering into the country of Moab, they abode there.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife, Naomi: and the names of his two sonnes, Mahlon, and Chilion, Ephrathites of Beth-lehem Iudah: and when they came into the land of Moab, they continued there.