Ruth 1:17

KJV

Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, [if ought] but death part thee and me.

KJV (with Strong's)

Where thou diest {H4191}, will I die {H4191}, and there will I be buried {H6912}: the LORD {H3068} do {H6213} so to me, and more {H3254} also, if ought but death {H4194} part {H6504} thee and me.

Complete Jewish Bible

Where you die, I will die; and there I will be buried. May ADONAI bring terrible curses on me, and worse ones as well, if anything but death separates you and me."

Berean Standard Bible

Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD punish me, and ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me.”

American Standard Version

where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: Jehovah do so to me, and more also, if aught but death part thee and me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 1:17 stands as a powerful testament to unwavering loyalty and covenantal commitment, encapsulating Ruth's profound pledge to her mother-in-law, Naomi. In this solemn declaration, the Moabite widow transcends mere familial obligation, vowing to share Naomi's destiny in life and death, even invoking a divine oath to underscore the absolute and unbreakable nature of her bond. This verse marks a pivotal turning point, solidifying Ruth's radical decision to abandon her homeland and gods, implicitly embracing Naomi's people and, by extension, the God of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This profound declaration by Ruth follows a critical moment of decision. Naomi, having lost her husband and two sons in Moab, resolves to return to Bethlehem in Judah, her homeland, due to the cessation of famine. She compassionately urges her two Moabite daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, to return to their own families and gods, acknowledging the bleak prospects for remarriage and security with her [Ruth 1:8-13](/ruth/1-8 "Ruth 1:8-13 - Naomi's Plea to Her Daughters-in-Law"). While Orpah tearfully yields to Naomi's persuasion and returns to her people [Ruth 1:14](/ruth/1-14 "Ruth 1:14 - Orpah's Departure"), Ruth steadfastly refuses to depart. Her preceding declaration in [Ruth 1:16](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16 - Ruth's Initial Pledge of Loyalty") sets the stage, promising to accompany Naomi wherever she goes and live wherever she lives, but verse 17 elevates this commitment to a sacred, covenant-like oath, sealing her devotion with an invocation of divine judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative unfolds during the period of the Judges, a time characterized by moral and spiritual decline in Israel [Judges 21:25](/judges/21-25 "Judges 21:25 - Everyone Did What Was Right in Their Own Eyes"). The relationship between Israelites and Moabites was generally hostile, stemming from historical conflicts and Moab's idolatrous practices [Numbers 22-25](/numbers/22 "Numbers 22-25 - Balaam and Moab"), [Deuteronomy 23:3-6](/deuteronomy/23-3 "Deuteronomy 23:3-6 - Exclusion of Moabites from the Assembly"). Against this backdrop, Ruth's unwavering commitment to an Israelite woman, and implicitly to her God, is exceptionally radical and counter-cultural. The concept of burial in one's homeland was profoundly significant, symbolizing belonging and continuity with one's ancestors. Ruth's pledge to be buried where Naomi dies signifies a complete severance from her past and an absolute identification with Naomi's future, even beyond life itself.
* **Key Themes:** Ruth 1:17 is a nexus for several major themes within the book of Ruth and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **unwavering loyalty and devotion**, often translated as *hesed* (חֶסֶד), a deep, covenantal love that goes beyond obligation. Ruth's pledge demonstrates an extraordinary level of selfless commitment, transcending cultural, geographical, and potentially religious divides. Her words also embody **covenantal language and oath-taking**, utilizing a formulaic expression common in the Old Testament to invoke divine judgment upon oneself if a promise is broken, thereby elevating her personal vow to a sacred, God-witnessed commitment [1 Samuel 3:17](/1_samuel/3-17 "1 Samuel 3:17 - Eli's Oath to Samuel"), [2 Samuel 3:9](/2_samuel/3-9 "2 Samuel 3:9 - Abner's Oath to David"). Finally, the verse implicitly highlights the theme of **embracing a new people and God**. While not explicitly stating a conversion, Ruth's vow to share Naomi's life, death, and burial place inherently means aligning herself with Naomi's people (Israel) and, by extension, Naomi's God, Yahweh. This pivotal decision by a Moabite woman to forsake her past and cleave to the God of Israel is central to the entire narrative, ultimately leading to her inclusion in the lineage of David and, remarkably, of Christ [Matthew 1:5](/matthew/1-5 "Matthew 1:5 - Ruth in the Genealogy of Jesus").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Die (מוּת, _mut'_):** This Hebrew verb signifies not merely the cessation of life but often carries the weight of a shared destiny, a finality of commitment. In Ruth's declaration, repeating "die" emphasizes the ultimate extent of her loyalty. It's a pledge that transcends the boundaries of life, indicating a bond that even death cannot sever, as she intends to share the same burial ground. This deep commitment to a shared end is a powerful expression of her unbreakable bond with Naomi.
* **The LORD do so to me, and more also (כֹּה יַעֲשֶׂה יְהוָה לִי וְכֹה יֹסִיף, _koh ya'aseh Yahweh li vekhoh yosiph'_):** This is a powerful and frequently used oath formula in the Old Testament. It functions as a self-imprecation, invoking divine judgment upon the speaker if the vow is not kept. The phrase "and more also" (וְכֹה יֹסִיף, *vekhoh yosiph*) intensifies the oath, implying that any punishment God might inflict for breaking the vow would be insufficient, and even greater calamity should befall the oath-taker. This formula underscores the absolute solemnity and binding nature of Ruth's commitment, making it a sacred vow before God Himself, not merely a personal promise.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Where thou diest, will I die":** This opening clause immediately establishes the profound depth of Ruth's commitment. It is a pledge of absolute solidarity, indicating that Ruth intends to share Naomi's ultimate fate, wherever that may be. It speaks to a bond that is not merely for the present journey but extends to the very end of life, signifying an unbreakable spiritual and emotional attachment.
* **"and there will I be buried":** This clause further intensifies the preceding vow. Burial in the ancient Near East was deeply significant, symbolizing one's identity, belonging, and connection to their ancestral land and people. By vowing to be buried where Naomi is buried, Ruth irrevocably severs ties with her Moabite heritage and declares her ultimate identification with Naomi's people and land, even in death. It's a profound statement of adoption and belonging.
* **"the LORD do so to me, and more also":** This is the solemn oath formula, a self-curse invoked by Ruth. By calling upon Yahweh, the God of Israel, she elevates her personal promise to a covenantal vow. The phrase "and more also" amplifies the severity of the potential divine judgment, indicating that Ruth considers any punishment for breaking this oath to be deserved and even magnified. This demonstrates the extreme earnestness and sincerity of her commitment.
* **"[if ought] but death part thee and me":** This concluding clause clarifies the singular condition under which their bond might be broken: only by death itself. It reinforces the absolute and unconditional nature of Ruth's loyalty, stating that no other circumstance, hardship, or temptation will separate her from Naomi. This highlights the unparalleled devotion and the enduring strength of her *hesed* (loyal love).

#### Literary Devices
Ruth 1:17 is rich in literary artistry, effectively conveying the depth of Ruth's commitment. The most prominent device is **Oath Formula**, specifically a **Self-Imprecation**, where Ruth invokes divine judgment upon herself if she fails to uphold her vow ("the LORD do so to me, and more also"). This elevates her personal promise to a sacred, covenantal level, underscoring its gravity. The verse also employs **Parallelism** in the phrases "Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried," which creates a rhythmic emphasis on the shared destiny and absolute solidarity between Ruth and Naomi. There is an element of **Hyperbole** or **Intensification** in the phrase "and more also," which exaggerates the severity of the self-imposed curse, further highlighting Ruth's unwavering resolve. Furthermore, the entire declaration serves as powerful **Foreshadowing**, as Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her God will ultimately lead to her integration into Israelite society and her pivotal role in the lineage of David and, eventually, the Messiah.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth's declaration in verse 17 is a profound theological statement, embodying the essence of *hesed*, or loyal love, which is a cornerstone of God's character and His covenant relationship with His people. Her commitment transcends mere human affection, mirroring the steadfast love and faithfulness that God demonstrates towards Israel, even in their unfaithfulness. This radical act of loyalty by a Moabite woman also prefigures the inclusion of Gentiles into God's redemptive plan, demonstrating that God's grace extends beyond ethnic boundaries to those who cleave to Him and His people. It underscores the theme of divine providence, as Ruth's seemingly humble and sacrificial choice sets in motion a chain of events that will contribute directly to the lineage of the Messiah, illustrating how God uses seemingly small acts of faithfulness for His grand purposes.

* [1 Samuel 3:17](/1_samuel/3-17 "1 Samuel 3:17 - Eli's Solemn Oath to Samuel")
* [2 Samuel 3:9](/2_samuel/3-9 "2 Samuel 3:9 - Abner's Oath of Loyalty to David")
* [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "Proverbs 17:17 - A Friend Loves at All Times")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 1:17 offers a timeless and challenging model for the depth of commitment required in various relationships—be it marriage, friendship, or, most profoundly, our spiritual devotion to God. Ruth's selfless choice to cleave to Naomi, even when it meant leaving her past behind, embracing an uncertain future, and potentially sacrificing her own prospects, illustrates the transformative power of unconditional love and faithfulness. It compels us to examine the sincerity and extent of our own vows and allegiances. Are we willing to embrace a shared destiny with those we commit to, even when circumstances are difficult or costly? Does our loyalty extend beyond convenience, echoing Ruth's "but death part thee and me"? This verse reminds us that true commitment often involves sacrifice, but it is precisely such devotion that God honors, blesses, and uses for His redemptive purposes, as seen in Ruth's ultimate blessing and her integral role in salvation history.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does Ruth's commitment to Naomi teach us about the nature of true loyalty and unconditional love in our own relationships?**
* **How does Ruth's oath, invoking the LORD, challenge us to consider the seriousness of our own commitments and promises, both to others and to God?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be called to demonstrate a "Ruth-like" commitment, even when it involves personal sacrifice or uncertainty?**
* **How does Ruth's willingness to abandon her past and embrace a new future with Naomi resonate with the call to follow Christ, leaving behind old ways for a new life?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Ruth invoking "the LORD" (Yahweh) in her oath, given her Moabite background?**

Answer: Ruth's invocation of "the LORD" (Yahweh) is profoundly significant. As a Moabite, she would have been raised worshipping Moabite deities like Chemosh. Her deliberate use of Yahweh's name in such a solemn, self-imprecatory oath signifies a radical and decisive shift in her allegiance. It is a clear, public declaration of her conversion and her adoption of Naomi's God as her own. This moment marks her spiritual turning point, indicating that her commitment to Naomi is inextricably linked to a commitment to Naomi's God, Yahweh. It foreshadows her full integration into the people of Israel and her embracing of their faith, a pivotal step that defines her character and her role in the unfolding narrative of redemption.

**Does Ruth's declaration imply a rejection of her own family and culture?**

Answer: Ruth's declaration in [Ruth 1:17](/ruth/1-17 "Ruth 1:17 - Ruth's Unwavering Pledge") does imply a profound and permanent separation from her Moabite family, land, and cultural identity. While Naomi initially encouraged both Orpah and Ruth to return to their "mother's house" [Ruth 1:8](/ruth/1-8 "Ruth 1:8 - Naomi's Blessing for Her Daughters-in-Law"), Ruth's pledge to die and be buried where Naomi dies signifies an absolute severance of ties. She is not merely visiting or temporarily relocating; she is fully committing to a new life, a new people, and a new God. This decision is costly and requires immense sacrifice, as she leaves behind everything familiar for an uncertain future in a foreign land. However, this rejection of her past is not portrayed negatively but as an act of extraordinary loyalty and faith, which God ultimately honors and blesses.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 1:17, with its profound declaration of unwavering loyalty and self-sacrificial commitment, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Ruth's *hesed*, her steadfast love that transcends all boundaries, beautifully prefigures the divine *hesed* of God expressed supremely in Christ. Just as Ruth pledged to die and be buried with Naomi, Christ's commitment to humanity led Him to embrace our destiny, dying on the cross and being buried, thereby conquering death and securing our salvation [Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Own Love for Us"). His covenant with His people is sealed not with a self-imprecatory oath, but with His own shed blood, a new covenant that promises eternal life to all who believe [Luke 22:20](/luke/22-20 "Luke 22:20 - The New Covenant in My Blood"). Furthermore, Ruth, a Moabite woman, is grafted into the lineage of Israel and ultimately becomes an ancestor of Jesus [Matthew 1:5](/matthew/1-5 "Matthew 1:5 - Ruth in Jesus' Genealogy"), powerfully foreshadowing Christ's mission to break down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile, uniting all nations into one body through His sacrifice [Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace"). Her radical inclusion, born of loyal love, points to the radical grace of Christ, who welcomes all who come to Him, making them co-heirs with Him in His eternal kingdom [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile in Christ").

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.