Bible Figure
Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law in the Book of Ruth
Naomi was Ruth's Israelite mother-in-law who returned from Moab in deep grief and became part of the providential story leading to David's family line.
Biography
Naomi left Bethlehem with her husband Elimelech and their two sons during a famine. In Moab her husband died, her sons married Ruth and Orpah, and then both sons died. Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem and urged her daughters-in-law to remain in Moab; Ruth refused to leave her. Bitter from her losses, Naomi asked to be called Mara. As Ruth gleaned in Boaz's field, Naomi recognized Boaz as a close relative and guided Ruth in seeking his protection as kinsman-redeemer. After Boaz married Ruth and Obed was born, the women of Bethlehem celebrated the restoration of Naomi's family.
Biblical Significance
Naomi's movement from emptiness to renewed family blessing is central to Ruth's theology of providence and covenant kindness. Through Ruth, Boaz, and Obed, Naomi's household became connected to the ancestry of King David.