And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there.
The man's name was Elimelech, his wife was named Naomi, and their two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. They were from the tribe of Ephrath in Bethlehem of Judah. They traveled to the country of Moab and settled there.
This verse introduces us to a family from Bethlehem - Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons - who moved to the foreign country of Moab.
📚 Historical Context
This family lived during the time of the judges, a turbulent period in Israel's history around 1100 BC. Bethlehem was experiencing a severe famine, which forced many families to seek food and survival elsewhere. Moab was a neighboring country east of the Dead Sea that had a complex relationship with Israel - sometimes hostile, sometimes providing refuge during difficult times.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.