### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĔlîymelek**, represented by `{{H458}}`, translates to **God of (the) king**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Ruth. Elimelech is introduced as an Israelite from Bethlehemjudah, the husband of Naomi, whose actions initiate the narrative of his family's journey and subsequent redemption.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H458}}` is central to the story's premise. Elimelech is identified as the husband of Naomi `{{H5281}}` and the father of their two sons `{{H1121}}`, Mahlon and Chilion [[Ruth 1:2]]. His decision to move his family to the country of Moab is the story's inciting incident. His subsequent death in Moab leaves Naomi a widow and sets the stage for the family's hardship [[Ruth 1:3]]. Even after his death, Elimelech's name and legacy remain crucial, as the inheritance of his land becomes a focal point for the law of the kinsman-redeemer ([[Ruth 4:3]], [[Ruth 4:9]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words define Elimelech's identity and relationships within the narrative:
* `{{H5281}}` **Noʻŏmîy** (pleasant): As the wife of Elimelech, her journey of loss and restoration forms the core of the book. His death is the first of the tragedies she endures [[Ruth 1:3]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): Elimelech was the father of two sons, Mahlon `{{H4248}}` and Chilion `{{H3630}}`, whose own deaths further imperil the family line [[Ruth 1:2]].
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (a family): The story revolves around the preservation of Elimelech's family. Boaz is identified as being "of the family of Elimelech," which establishes his connection and right to redeem [[Ruth 2:1]].
* `{{H1162}}` **Bôʻaz** (Boaz): Introduced as a kinsman from Elimelech's family, Boaz is a "mighty man of wealth" who ultimately redeems the family's property and ensures the continuation of its name [[Ruth 2:1]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (a brother): The connection to Elimelech is expressed through kinship terms, as his parcel of land is described as belonging to "our brother Elimelech" [[Ruth 4:3]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H458}}` is foundational to the book of Ruth.
* **Patriarchal Headship:** Elimelech's role as the patriarch establishes the family's standing and property in Bethlehem. His death creates the vacuum of leadership and inheritance that drives the plot forward [[Ruth 1:3]].
* **Legacy and Inheritance:** The primary conflict in the latter half of Ruth is the preservation of Elimelech's name and land. The transaction Boaz undertakes is explicitly to buy "all that was Elimelech's" to ensure his line does not end [[Ruth 4:9]].
* **The Link for Redemption:** Elimelech is the common ancestor connecting Naomi, her deceased sons, and Boaz. It is because Boaz is "of the kindred of Elimelech" that he is positioned to act as the kinsman-redeemer [[Ruth 2:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H458}}` represents the patriarchal figure whose life and death frame the entire story of Ruth. While he is present for only a short part of the narrative, his identity, land, and family line are the central elements requiring preservation. The redemption of his legacy through the actions of his kinsman Boaz demonstrates the profound importance of family, inheritance, and covenant faithfulness in the biblical account.
TRV