What is the context?
Naomi hears that the LORD has provided food for His people, so she prepares to return to Judah. Orpah and Ruth begin the journey with her. Before they go farther, she urges them to return to their mothers’ homes and seek the security of new marriages.
Her blessing recognizes what they have already given: loving devotion to their husbands and to her. The word is חֶסֶד, hesed (KHEH-sed), kindness expressed in faithful care. Brown–Driver–Briggs describes both human kindness and God’s lovingkindness, specifically listing Naomi’s prayer here. She asks God to show them the care they have shown others.
The women weep and initially insist on accompanying her. Naomi explains that she cannot offer them new husbands from her own household. Even the imagined possibility of having sons would leave them waiting far too long. Deuteronomy 25:5–10 gives the background of preserving a deceased brother’s family, but Naomi’s speech shows that no simple solution is available through her.
She describes her own situation as bitter and says the LORD’s hand has gone out against her. Orpah kisses her goodbye, while Ruth clings to her. Naomi’s concern for their future and her sense of personal loss are both present in the conversation.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Wesley and Henry understand Naomi’s insistence as requiring the women to consider the cost of going with her. They do not read her as merely indifferent to their welfare or faith. Henry draws attention to her prayer when they face separation; Wesley emphasizes her inability to offer a secure future.
Both also use the two women’s choices as an illustration of differing levels of commitment. They compare a sorrowful departure with a loyalty willing to leave familiar surroundings. The narrative gives Orpah’s farewell and Ruth’s decision here; Ruth’s own explanation of her loyalty follows in the next passage.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
The kindness Naomi asks for belongs to a theme running through Scripture. In Exodus 34:5–9, the LORD declares Himself compassionate and gracious, abundant in loving devotion and faithfulness. Naomi’s prayer seeks care from the God whose character has already been made known to His people.
Titus 3:3–7 brings God’s kindness into the account of salvation through Jesus. He saves according to mercy, renews by the Holy Spirit, and gives the hope of eternal life. The larger purpose reaches beyond finding immediate security: God’s kindness brings people into a renewed life with Him.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.