Naomi is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Ruth in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. The name “Naomi” means “pleasant” or “agreeable” in Hebrew. The exact year of her birth is not mentioned in the biblical text, and her parentage is also not specified, however, she is believed to have lived around 1100 BC. Naomi is best known for her role in the Book of Ruth, where she is depicted as a widow who accompanies her daughter-in-law, Ruth the Moabitess, back to Bethlehem in Judah after experiencing personal tragedies.
Biblical Timeline
Famine in Bethlehem and Move to Moab
Naomi and her husband, Elimelech, lived in Bethlehem in Judah. However, due to a severe famine in the region, they moved to the neighboring country of Moab with their two sons, Mahlon and Chilion (Ruth 1:1-2). The family settled in Moab, where they lived for some time.
Deaths of Elimelech, Mahlon, and Chilion
While residing in Moab, Elimelech, Naomi’s husband, passed away, leaving her as a widow. After Elimelech’s death, her two sons, Mahlon and Chilion, married Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth, respectively. Tragically, both Mahlon and Chilion also died, leaving Naomi and her two daughters-in-law as widows (Ruth 1:3-5).
Return to Bethlehem
Following the deaths of her husband and sons, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, as she had heard that the famine was over and the Lord had provided for His people (Ruth 1:6). Initially, both Orpah and Ruth decided to accompany her, but Naomi urged them to return to their families in Moab. Orpah eventually returned, but Ruth insisted on staying with Naomi, proclaiming her loyalty to her mother-in-law and to the God of Israel (Ruth 1:14-17). Together, Naomi and Ruth journeyed back to Bethlehem, arriving at the beginning of the barley harvest (Ruth 1:19-22).
Ruth and Boaz
In Bethlehem, Ruth began to glean in the fields of a wealthy relative of Elimelech named Boaz. Boaz showed kindness to Ruth and ensured her safety while gleaning. Naomi recognized the opportunity for Ruth’s future security and advised her on how to approach Boaz for marriage (Ruth 2:19-23; 3:1-6). Boaz agreed to marry Ruth and became her kinsman-redeemer, acquiring Elimelech’s land and continuing the family lineage (Ruth 4:9-10).
Birth of Obed
Boaz and Ruth were married, and they had a son named Obed. Naomi took care of the child, and the women of Bethlehem blessed Naomi for having a grandson who would renew her life and continue the family name (Ruth 4:13-17). Obed would later become the grandfather of King David.
Death of Naomi
The biblical text does not mention the details or circumstances surrounding Naomi’s death.
Additional Notes
Naomi’s story is one of resilience and redemption in the face of loss and hardship. Her faith and loyalty to the God of Israel, as well as her loving relationship with Ruth the Moabitess, are central themes in the Book of Ruth. The story also highlights the concept of the kinsman-redeemer, as Boaz fulfills this role for Ruth and Naomi.