Ruth 1:6

KJV

¶ Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then she arose {H6965} with her daughters in law {H3618}, that she might return {H7725} from the country {H7704} of Moab {H4124}: for she had heard {H8085} in the country {H7704} of Moab {H4124} how that the LORD {H3068} had visited {H6485} his people {H5971} in giving {H5414} them bread {H3899}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So she prepared to return with her daughters-in-law from the plain of Mo'av; for in the plain of Mo'av she had heard how ADONAI had paid attention to his people by giving them food.

Berean Standard Bible

When Naomi heard in Moab that the LORD had attended to His people by providing them with food, she and her daughters-in-law prepared to leave the land of Moab.

American Standard Version

Then she arose with her daughters-in-law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that Jehovah had visited his people in giving them bread.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 1:6 marks a crucial turning point in the narrative, signaling Naomi's decision to depart from the land of Moab and embark on a journey back to her homeland, Judah. This pivotal moment is driven by the transformative news she receives: the severe famine that had previously driven her family from Bethlehem has ended, and the LORD has graciously restored abundance and provided sustenance for His people. This verse encapsulates the shift from despair and desolation in a foreign land to the glimmer of hope and the promise of divine provision in the covenant land, setting the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Naomi and Ruth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ruth 1:6 immediately follows a decade of profound tragedy for Naomi. The opening verses of the book establish that Elimelech, Naomi's husband, led his family from Bethlehem-Judah to Moab to escape a famine ([/ruth/1-1](/ruth/1-1 "Ruth 1:1 - Famine in Judah")). During their sojourn, Elimelech and both of their sons, Mahlon and Chilion, die, leaving Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth as childless widows ([/ruth/1-3](/ruth/1-3 "Ruth 1:3 - Death of Elimelech and Sons")). This verse, therefore, represents a decisive pivot from the sorrowful circumstances of death and foreignness to a proactive decision driven by a renewed hope. It sets the stage for the crucial dialogue between Naomi and her daughters-in-law in the subsequent verses, leading to Ruth's unwavering commitment to Naomi and her God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The famine described in [Ruth 1:1](/ruth/1-1 "Ruth 1:1 - Famine in Judah") highlights the precarious nature of life in ancient Israel, where agricultural productivity was directly linked to divine blessing or judgment ([Deuteronomy 28:15-24](/deuteronomy/28-15 "Deuteronomy 28:15-24 - Curses for Disobedience")). Moab, a neighboring nation east of the Dead Sea, was historically an enemy of Israel, often associated with idolatry and moral corruption ([Numbers 25:1-3](/numbers/25-1 "Numbers 25:1-3 - Israel's Sin with Moab")). For an Israelite family to reside there was a significant departure from their covenant identity. Naomi's status as a childless widow in a foreign land would have rendered her extremely vulnerable, lacking social and economic protection. The news of "bread" in Judah, therefore, was not merely about food, but about the restoration of God's favor, the return of community support, and the possibility of a future within her own people.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Ruth and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Providence and Provision**, demonstrating God's active involvement in the lives of His people, even when they stray or face hardship. The famine's end and the return of "bread" are explicitly attributed to the LORD's "visitation," highlighting His faithfulness to His covenant promises. Secondly, it introduces the theme of **Hope Amidst Despair**, as the news transforms Naomi's outlook, prompting her to leave a place of profound sorrow and loss for the possibility of a better future. This hope is not self-generated but rooted in the report of God's action. Lastly, it initiates the journey of **Return to Homeland and Heritage**. Naomi's decision to leave Moab signifies a desire to return to the land of promise, the community of Israel, and the sphere of God's direct blessing, a symbolic journey from spiritual and physical barrenness back to the potential for life and redemption under God's care, echoing themes found in the return from exile in books like [Ezra](/ezra/1 "Ezra 1 - Return from Exile") and [Nehemiah](/nehemiah/1 "Nehemiah 1 - Rebuilding Jerusalem").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **visited (פָּקַד, _paqad'_):** This Hebrew verb is rich in meaning, encompassing "to visit, attend to, muster, appoint, inspect, take account of, remember." In this context, it carries the positive connotation of God's benevolent and active intervention. It signifies that God did not merely observe but actively intervened to end the famine and restore fertility to the land of Judah. This "visitation" implies a divine remembrance and a turning point from a period of judgment or neglect to one of favor and blessing, as seen when God "visited" Sarah to give her a son ([Genesis 21:1](/genesis/21-1 "Genesis 21:1 - God Visits Sarah")) or when He "visited" His people in Egypt to deliver them from bondage ([Exodus 4:31](/exodus/4-31 "Exodus 4:31 - God Visits Israel in Egypt")).
* **bread (לֶחֶם, _lekhem'_):** While literally meaning "bread" or "food," _lekhem_ often functions as a metonymy for all necessary provisions and sustenance for life. In the ancient Near East, the presence or absence of bread was a direct indicator of prosperity or famine. Therefore, God "giving them bread" signifies a comprehensive restoration of the land's productivity and the well-being of its inhabitants, symbolizing life, blessing, and the end of the period of scarcity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then she arose with her daughters in law,"**: This clause marks a decisive shift from the passive suffering described in the preceding verses to an active decision. "Arose" (וַתָּקַם, _wattaqom_) implies a determined movement, a resolve to change her circumstances. The inclusion of "her daughters in law" highlights their continued loyalty and presence, setting the stage for their crucial roles in the subsequent narrative, particularly Ruth's.
* **"that she might return from the country of Moab:"**: This states Naomi's clear intention and destination. Her goal is not merely to leave Moab, a land associated with death and foreignness, but specifically to "return" (לָשׁוּב, _lashuv_) to her homeland. This return is not just geographical but also spiritual and communal, signifying a desire to reconnect with her people and the God of Israel.
* **"for she had heard in the country of Moab"**: This introduces the impetus for Naomi's decision: information received while still in Moab. The emphasis on "heard" (שָׁמְעָה, _sham'ah_) underscores the role of divine communication, even indirectly, in prompting human action. It suggests that God's work precedes and enables human response.
* **"how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread."**: This is the core reason for Naomi's hope and action. The news is not merely that the famine ended, but that "the LORD" (יְהוָה, _YHWH_), the covenant God of Israel, was directly responsible. His "visitation" signifies His benevolent intervention, remembering His covenant people and providing for them. The restoration of "bread" symbolizes the end of their suffering and the renewal of divine blessing, transforming a land of scarcity into one of abundance.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs several **Literary Devices**. **Contrast** is prominent, setting the barrenness and death of Moab against the renewed life and provision in Judah. This highlights the stark choice Naomi faces and the divine hand in turning circumstances around. **Symbolism** is also key, with "bread" representing not just physical sustenance but God's comprehensive blessing, life, and faithfulness. Moab itself functions as a symbol of separation from God's covenant and the consequences of leaving the promised land, while Judah (and Bethlehem, "House of Bread") symbolizes God's presence and provision. Furthermore, the phrase "the LORD had visited his people" is an example of **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human-like action ("visiting") to God to convey His active and personal involvement in the affairs of humanity. This divine visitation also serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the broader redemptive plan that will unfold, particularly through Ruth's lineage, culminating in the ultimate "bread" and blessing for all people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 1:6 serves as a powerful reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness and sovereign providence, even in the midst of human suffering and apparent divine absence. Naomi's decision to return is not based on a whim, but on a divinely orchestrated report that the LORD, the covenant God of Israel, has actively intervened to restore His people. This highlights that God's care extends beyond individual circumstances to the well-being of His entire community, ensuring their sustenance and fulfilling His promises. It underscores the biblical principle that God is the ultimate provider, capable of turning seasons of famine into seasons of abundance, demonstrating His steadfast love and commitment to His covenant people. This verse invites us to trust in God's timing and His ability to bring about restoration, even when our circumstances seem bleak.

* [Deuteronomy 8:3](/deuteronomy/8-3 "Deuteronomy 8:3 - Man Does Not Live by Bread Alone")
* [Psalm 37:25](/psalms/37-25 "Psalm 37:25 - The Righteous Never Forsaken")
* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 1:6 offers profound encouragement for those navigating seasons of loss, despair, or spiritual barrenness. Naomi's story reminds us that even when we feel utterly forsaken and far from God's blessing, His providential hand is at work, often in ways we cannot immediately perceive. The news of "bread" in Judah, a seemingly small piece of information, ignited hope and prompted action, demonstrating that God's provision can manifest in unexpected ways, turning our attention back to where true sustenance lies. This verse calls us to cultivate an attentiveness to God's movements in our own lives, to recognize His "visitations"—His interventions, provisions, and moments of grace—even after periods of hardship. It encourages us to trust that God remains faithful to His people, and that returning to our spiritual roots, our community of faith, and the promises of His Word can be the very pathway to renewed strength, purpose, and abundant life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life have you experienced a "famine," and how has God demonstrated His "visitation" or provision in unexpected ways?**
* **What "news" or spiritual insights have recently prompted you to "arise" and make a decisive change in your life or faith journey?**
* **How does Naomi's decision to return to Judah, prompted by God's provision, encourage you to trust God's timing and faithfulness in your own circumstances?**
* **In what ways can you actively look for and acknowledge God's "bread" (His daily provisions and blessings) in your life, even amidst ongoing challenges?**

### FAQ
**Why did God allow the famine in Judah in the first place, if He intended to "visit" His people with bread?**

Answer: The Bible often portrays famines as a consequence of natural cycles, human disobedience, or as a means by which God tests or disciplines His people, as outlined in the covenant curses in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). While the specific reason for this famine isn't detailed, it serves as a backdrop to highlight God's sovereignty and His ultimate control over all circumstances. His "visitation" with bread in Ruth 1:6 demonstrates His mercy and faithfulness, showing that even in periods of hardship or judgment, His ultimate desire is to restore and provide for His people. It underscores the theme of divine providence, where God works through both difficult and prosperous times to achieve His purposes and draw His people back to Himself.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 1:6, with its focus on God's "visitation" and the provision of "bread" for His people, richly foreshadows the ultimate divine provision found in Jesus Christ. Just as the physical famine in Judah was overcome by God's gracious intervention, humanity's spiritual famine—a desperate hunger for righteousness, forgiveness, and eternal life—is fully satisfied by the coming of the Messiah. Jesus himself declared, "I am the [bread of life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"); whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). He is the true bread from heaven, given by God to give life to the world ([John 6:33](/john/6-33 "John 6:33 - The True Bread from Heaven")). Naomi's return to Bethlehem, which literally means "House of Bread," is profoundly symbolic, pointing to the very place where Christ, the living Bread, would be born ([Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Bethlehem, the Birthplace of the Messiah")). Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus became the ultimate provision, taking away the sin of the world and offering spiritual sustenance that transcends any earthly need ([John 6:51](/john/6-51 "John 6:51 - Jesus Gives His Flesh for the Life of the World")). Thus, Naomi's journey from foreign famine to promised land provision prefigures the greater journey of humanity, returning from spiritual desolation to abundant life and eternal fellowship with God through Christ, our true "bread" and ultimate "visitation" of grace.

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.

Cross-References

Psalms 132:15

I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread.

Exodus 16:4

Then said the LORD unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people shall go out and gather a certain rate every day, that I may prove them, whether they will walk in my law, or no.

Exodus 16:6

And Moses and Aaron said unto all the children of Israel, At even, then ye shall know that the LORD hath brought you out from the land of Egypt:

Psalms 111:5

He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.

Exodus 3:16

¶ Go, and gather the elders of Israel together, and say unto them, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, appeared unto me, saying, I have surely visited you, and [seen] that which is done to you in Egypt:

Exodus 4:31

And the people believed: and when they heard that the LORD had visited the children of Israel, and that he had looked upon their affliction, then they bowed their heads and worshipped.

Luke 19:44

And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.