Ruth 1:10

KJV

And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they said {H559} unto her, Surely we will return {H7725} with thee unto thy people {H5971}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They said to her, "No; we want to return with you to your people."

Berean Standard Bible

and said, “Surely we will return with you to your people.”

American Standard Version

And they said unto her, Nay, but we will return with thee unto thy people.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 1:10 captures a profound moment of initial loyalty and deep affection as Naomi's Moabite daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, declare their unwavering commitment to accompany her back to Judah. This heartfelt response, following Naomi's counsel for them to return to their own families, underscores the strength of their bond and their immediate willingness to sacrifice their familiar lives for their beloved mother-in-law, setting the stage for the dramatic choices that unfold in the narrative.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Naomi's compassionate urging for Orpah and Ruth to return to their mothers' homes, where they might find rest and new husbands, and her blessing that the Lord would deal kindly with them ([Ruth 1:8-9](/ruth/1-8 "Ruth 1:8-9 - Naomi's Blessing and Counsel")). Their declaration in [Ruth 1:10](/ruth/1-10 "Ruth 1:10 - The Daughters-in-Law's Initial Response") is a direct, unified, and emphatic rejection of Naomi's advice, revealing their deep attachment. This initial shared resolve then sets up the pivotal divergence in [Ruth 1:14](/ruth/1-14 "Ruth 1:14 - Orpah's Departure"), where Orpah ultimately kisses Naomi goodbye, while Ruth clings to her, leading to Ruth's famous vow of loyalty in [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16-17 - Ruth's Vow of Loyalty"). The repeated motif of "returning" (Hebrew: *shuv*) throughout [Ruth chapter 1](/ruth/1 "Ruth 1 - Naomi's Return to Bethlehem") highlights both the physical journey and the spiritual turning points.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, widowhood was a precarious state, especially for women without sons to provide for them. Naomi, having lost her husband and two sons, faced destitution. For Orpah and Ruth, as Moabite women, returning to their own families offered the best prospect for remarriage and security within their familiar cultural and religious framework. Leaving Moab to accompany Naomi to Judah meant abandoning their kin, their land, and their gods (implied in "thy people" and "thy gods" in [Ruth 1:15](/ruth/1-15 "Ruth 1:15 - Naomi's Counsel to Ruth and Orpah")). This decision was not merely a change of location but a profound cultural and religious shift, particularly for Ruth who ultimately embraced the God of Israel. The emphasis on "thy people" underscores the tribal and national identity that was deeply intertwined with family, land, and worship in that era.

* **Key Themes:** [Ruth 1:10](/ruth/1-10 "Ruth 1:10 - The Daughters-in-Law's Initial Response") introduces several core themes that permeate the [Book of Ruth](/ruth/1 "The Book of Ruth"). Foremost is the theme of **loyalty and devotion**, particularly the concept of *hesed* (Hebrew for "loyal love" or "covenant faithfulness"), which is exemplified by the daughters-in-law's initial response and later perfected by Ruth. This verse also highlights the theme of **difficult choices and sacrifice**, as the women confront the harsh realities of their widowhood and the radical implications of leaving their homeland. Furthermore, it subtly introduces the theme of **divine providence** working through human relationships and choices, as this act of loyalty, though seemingly small, is a crucial step in God's larger plan of redemption, ultimately leading to the lineage of David and Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Said (Hebrew, _'amar'_):** This verb signifies a direct verbal declaration. In this context, it emphasizes the immediate, unified, and vocal response of both Orpah and Ruth, highlighting their shared resolve at this moment. It's not a hesitant whisper but a firm statement.
* **Surely (Hebrew, _ki'_):** This particle serves as an emphatic affirmation, often translated as "indeed," "certainly," or "truly." Its inclusion here underscores the absolute conviction and strong intent behind their declaration. It conveys a sense of certainty and determination in their decision to stay with Naomi.
* **Return (Hebrew, _shuv'_):** This verb, appearing frequently in [Ruth chapter 1](/ruth/1 "Ruth 1 - The Return to Bethlehem"), means "to turn back," "to go back," or "to restore." Here, it refers to the physical act of accompanying Naomi on her journey back to Judah. However, in the broader narrative, it also carries theological weight, hinting at a turning of allegiance or a spiritual return, particularly for Ruth.
* **Thy people (Hebrew, _'ammekh'_):** This phrase is crucial, signifying not just a geographic location but a communal identity. "Thy people" refers to Naomi's kin, her nation, and by extension, her God and cultural practices. For the Moabite women, aligning with "thy people" meant severing ties with their own Moabite heritage, their families, and their gods, a decision with profound social, economic, and religious implications.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they said unto her,"**: This opening clause establishes the collective voice of both Orpah and Ruth. Their response is presented as a unified front, indicating a shared immediate intention and a strong bond that had developed between them and Naomi. It sets the stage for a pivotal moment of decision.
* **"Surely we will return with thee"**: This is the emphatic core of their declaration. The "surely" (כִּי, *ki*) highlights their firm resolve and commitment. They are not merely suggesting or considering; they are stating their definite intention to accompany Naomi. The phrase "with thee" underscores their desire for continued companionship and loyalty to Naomi personally, rather than just a general desire to leave Moab.
* **"unto thy people."**: This phrase defines the destination and, more significantly, the identity of the community they intend to join. It implies a willingness to leave their own people (Moabites) and integrate into Naomi's people (Israelites). This is a profound statement of allegiance, carrying implications for their future social, cultural, and religious identity.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Dialogue**, presenting the direct speech of Orpah and Ruth, which immediately reveals their character and the depth of their affection for Naomi. The use of the emphatic particle "surely" (כִּי, *ki*) serves as a device of **Emphasis**, highlighting the strength of their conviction and the seriousness of their declaration. This strong initial statement also functions as a form of **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the extraordinary loyalty that will be fully realized by Ruth in the subsequent verses, even as it contrasts with Orpah's eventual decision. The collective "they" creates an initial sense of **Unity**, which will soon be dramatically broken, underscoring the individual choices that follow.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 1:10, though brief, is pregnant with theological significance, introducing the theme of loyal love (*hesed*) that undergirds the entire Book of Ruth. The willingness of Orpah and Ruth to forsake their familiar lives and "return" with Naomi speaks to a profound self-sacrificial love that mirrors God's own covenant faithfulness to His people. Their initial declaration of solidarity foreshadows the radical commitment that Ruth will ultimately embody, demonstrating how God often works through the faithful, compassionate choices of ordinary individuals to advance His redemptive purposes. This verse sets the stage for a narrative where human loyalty, even in the face of immense loss and uncertainty, becomes a conduit for divine blessing and the continuation of God's covenant line.

* [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "Proverbs 17:17 - A Friend Loves at All Times")
* [1 Samuel 20:42](/1_samuel/20-42 "1 Samuel 20:42 - Jonathan's Covenant with David")
* [Deuteronomy 10:18-19](/deuteronomy/10-18 "Deuteronomy 10:18 - God's Love for the Sojourner")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 1:10 offers a powerful lesson on the nature of genuine commitment and the profound impact of compassionate relationships. In a world often characterized by self-interest and transient connections, the unwavering loyalty expressed by Orpah and Ruth serves as a compelling example of steadfast love. This verse challenges us to consider the depth of our own commitments to those we claim to love, especially during times of adversity or when personal sacrifice is required. It reminds us that true devotion often means putting the needs and well-being of others before our own comfort or convenience, mirroring the *hesed* that God extends to us. Our actions of loyalty and empathy can inspire similar devotion in others and, more importantly, reflect the very character of God. The courage to make difficult decisions rooted in faithfulness and care for others, even when it means personal cost, is a testament to the transformative power of love in our lives and communities.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "loyalty" truly mean in your most significant relationships, especially when faced with difficult choices?**
* **How does the initial, unified response of Orpah and Ruth challenge your understanding of commitment in the face of uncertainty?**
* **In what ways can you demonstrate sacrificial love and *hesed* to those around you, even when it requires personal cost or a departure from your comfort zone?**

### FAQ
**What does "Surely we will return with thee unto thy people" imply for the Moabite daughters-in-law?**

Answer: This statement implies a profound commitment that goes beyond mere companionship. For Orpah and Ruth, returning "unto thy people" (Naomi's people) meant leaving their own Moabite homeland, their families, their culture, and their gods. In ancient societies, national and religious identity were deeply intertwined. By declaring their intent to go with Naomi, they were essentially expressing a willingness to adopt a new national, cultural, and potentially religious identity, a significant and costly decision, especially for women who relied on their kin for security and prospects of remarriage.

**Why is the word "surely" significant in this verse?**

Answer: The Hebrew word for "surely" (כִּי, *ki*) is an emphatic particle that adds strong conviction and certainty to their declaration. It indicates that their decision was not hesitant or casual but a firm, heartfelt resolve. This emphasis highlights the depth of their affection and loyalty to Naomi at this moment, setting the stage for the later contrast between Orpah's eventual departure and Ruth's unyielding commitment in [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16-17 - Ruth's Vow of Loyalty").

**How does this verse foreshadow later events in the Book of Ruth?**

Answer: While both Orpah and Ruth initially make this declaration of loyalty, the verse foreshadows the ultimate, unwavering commitment of Ruth. It establishes the theme of choosing to leave one's familiar life for a new path rooted in loyalty and faith. Though Orpah eventually returns to her people, Ruth's decision to "cling" to Naomi and embrace her God ([Ruth 1:14-18](/ruth/1-14 "Ruth 1:14-18 - Orpah Returns, Ruth Stays")) is the full realization of the loyal love initially expressed in [Ruth 1:10](/ruth/1-10 "Ruth 1:10 - The Daughters-in-Law's Initial Response"). This initial shared intent highlights the extraordinary nature of Ruth's subsequent, singular devotion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 1:10, in its depiction of a profound, self-sacrificial loyalty that transcends familial and national boundaries, beautifully prefigures the radical call of Christ and the nature of the new covenant community. Just as Orpah and Ruth declared their willingness to leave their own people and embrace Naomi's, so too does Jesus call His followers to forsake all and follow Him, stating that whoever loves father or mother more than Him is not worthy of Him ([Matthew 10:37](/matthew/10-37 "Matthew 10:37 - Jesus' Demands of Discipleship")). The "people" to whom Ruth ultimately committed herself were the people of God, foreshadowing the spiritual family of believers drawn from every nation, tribe, and tongue, united not by bloodline or geography but by faith in Christ ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ"); [Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - The Multitude from Every Nation")). The *hesed* (loyal love) exemplified by Ruth, initially expressed in this verse, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Christ, who, though rich, became poor for our sake, that we through His poverty might become rich ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Sacrifice")), leaving His heavenly home to "return with us" to God, reconciling us to the Father through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Christ's Supremacy and Reconciliation")). Thus, Ruth's initial declaration of loyalty points forward to the greater loyalty of Christ to His people and the transformative loyalty He calls us to in response.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.