Commentary on Ruth 1:21

Verse: "I went out full, and the Lord hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the Lord hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?" (Ruth 1:21)

Introduction

The book of Ruth, one of the delightful narratives of the Old Testament, unfolds a story of loss, loyalty, and divine providence. Ruth 1:21 encapsulates the turmoil experienced by Naomi, a widow returning to Bethlehem after fleeing due to famine. This verse reveals not only Naomi's deep anguish but also reflects on themes of emptiness, divine sovereignty, and the struggles of faith.

Historical and Theological Context

• Setting: The narrative is set during the period of the Judges, a time characterized by societal chaos and moral ambiguity in Israel. Naomi’s return to Bethlehem signifies a personal yet collective longing for restoration amidst despair.
• Naomi’s Situation: After losing her husband and sons, Naomi finds herself bereft and desolate. In the Hebrew community, familial prosperity was tied to identity; thus, her emptiness reflects a significant loss of status and hope.
• The Role of God: The theology surfacing in this passage invites readers to contemplate God’s seemingly contradictory nature — being both a source of affliction and a beacon of hope.

Verse Analysis

“I went out full”

This phrase signifies Naomi’s initial circumstances of abundance when she left her homeland with her family. It points to a life filled with hope, family, and expectations. The journey to Moab was driven by survival instinct, where scarcity of food seemed to compel the decision.

“and the Lord hath brought me home again empty”

Naomi's declaration of returning empty underscores her profound loss. The word “empty” suggests not just a lack of physical provisions but an emotional and spiritual void. Matthew Henry reflects on the weight of her words, indicating that this emptiness is a testament to her grief. This phrase can lead to discussions on the perception of God’s providence in times of suffering.

“why then call ye me Naomi”

Naomi means “pleasant.” In disassociating from her name, she highlights her perceived bitterness against her circumstances. Albert Barnes emphasizes that she feels unworthy to bear a name associated with joy. This rhetorical question hints at a deeper conflict between her identity and her experiences, provoking thoughts on how personal suffering can reshape one's understanding of self.

“seeing the Lord hath testified against me”

Here, Naomi acknowledges perceived divine judgment. Adam Clarke interprets this as her understanding that calamities serve as testimonies, calling her to account for her situation. It is a sobering moment that showcases humanity’s struggle with unmerited suffering and the temptation to assign blame to divine agency.

“and the Almighty hath afflicted me”

This final phrase encapsulates her despair and acknowledges the sovereignty of God. In a world where suffering often raises challenging theological questions, Naomi’s proclamation invites reflection on the relationship between divine power and human suffering. Clarke points out that her acknowledgment of God’s power in afflicting her is both brutally honest and revealing of her faith and understanding of God’s role in her life.

Thematic Insights

• Faith Amidst Adversity: Naomi’s lament serves as a gateway into understanding faith’s complexity when faced with trials. Rather than abandoning her faith, her honesty reveals a deeper engagement with God.
• Divine Sovereignty: The passage emphasizes the belief that God is ultimately in control, even when circumstances appear bleak. The “empty” return contrasts starkly with the notion of God's providential oversight.
• Identity and Transformation: Naomi’s transformation from fullness to emptiness calls attention to the journey many believers face amidst life’s trials. The shift in identity — from Naomi to Mara (meaning “bitter”) — prompts discussions on how adversity shapes faith and character.

Applications for Today

For pastors and theologians, Naomi’s plight offers rich material for sermons and teachings on suffering, loss, and divine faithfulness. Lessons drawn from this verse can help congregations understand their own moments of despair while feeling assured of God’s presence in their trials.

Encouragement for the Afflicted

Many in contemporary settings resonate with Naomi's feelings of emptiness and loss. Pastoral care can focus on acknowledging pain while also gearing towards hope and restoration, mirroring Naomi’s journey back to Bethlehem, the place of potential renewal.

The Importance of Community

This passage underlines the necessity of community support. Ruth’s loyalty and commitment to Naomi serve as a model for the Church to embody in its mission. It emphasizes that alongside individual suffering, there also lies the hope found in genuine relationships.

Conclusion

Ruth 1:21 serves as a poignant reflection on suffering, identity, and divine interaction in the lives of believers. Through Naomi's lament, we are reminded that faith is not devoid of sorrow, but rather accommodates it in light of God’s overarching story of redemption. Ultimately, this narrative calls us to a deeper understanding of our own ‘emptiness’ and the restorative power of returning home — to God’s presence, community, and purpose.