Chapter one of Ruth covers Naomi and her family leaving Judah for Moab during a famine, the death of the men, and the return of Naomi joined by Ruth.

Here is a more detailed outline of chapter one:

• Famine in the land (vs. 1)
• Moved to Moab (vs. 1-2)
• Elimelech dies (vs. 3)
• Two sons take Moabite wives (vs. 4)
• Sons died (vs. 5)
• Famine over (vs. 6)
• Begin the return to Judah (vs. 6-7)
• Naomi tells her daughter-in-laws to return to their families (vs. 8-9)
• Daughter-in-laws refuse (vs. 10)
• Naomi implores them (vs. 11-13)
• Orpah leaves, Ruth stays (vs. 14)
• Naomi implores Ruth (vs. 15)
• Ruth’s response (vs. 16-17)
• Naomi relents (vs. 18)
• Travel to Bethlehem (vs. 19)
• Naomi changes her name (vs. 20-21)
• Summary of their travel (vs. 22)

A lot happens in the first chapter of the book. It covers a span of about ten years, according to verse four.

During the time of Ruth, men took care of the women. When Naomi’s husband and sons died, and she had no grandchildren, she then had no one to care for her. Ruth and Orpah were young enough to be remarried so Naomi saw that it was better for them and their future if they did so.

Ruth’s response to remain with Naomi shows a strong care for her. She was willing to give up her own personal security in order to care for Naomi. She also showed that she was willing to follow the God of Israel rather than the idols of Moab.

Read chapter one and see what you glean from it. Here are some questions to think about:

• What do we learn about Naomi?
• What do we learn about Ruth?
• What do you think about Naomi’s words in verse 21?
• Do you have any questions from chapter one?