Ruth 1:12

French S21 2007 (Bible Segond 21)

Retournez chez vous, mes filles, allez-y! Je suis trop vieille pour me remarier. Et même si je disais: ‘J'ai de l'espérance’, même si cette nuit j'étais avec un homme et que je mette au monde des fils,

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, Naomi is talking to her daughters-in-law and telling them to go back to their own homes because she is too old to marry again and have more children. She emphasizes her age and the improbability of having a new husband and children.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your grandma told you, 'I'm too old to have more grandchildren now, even if I wanted to.' That's what Naomi is saying to her daughters-in-law. She's letting them know it's not likely to happen.

Historical Background

Ruth 1:12 is part of the Book of Ruth, traditionally attributed to Samuel. It was likely written around the 10th century BCE. The story revolves around the Moabite woman Ruth and her relationship with her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi. The cultural setting is the time of the Judges in Israel, where the social norms dictated that widows might return to their families.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can remind us of the importance of recognizing and accepting our limitations, such as age. For example, a woman in her late 50s might decide not to pursue having more children, realizing it's not practical for her health or lifestyle.

Topics

• hope
• age
• marriage
• widows
• family
• limitations

Related Verses

• Genesis 18:11
• 1 Samuel 2:5
• Psalm 127:3-5
• Luke 1:36
• 1 Timothy 5:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Naomi tell her daughters-in-law to go back?

Naomi believes it's best for them to return to their own families because she is too old to marry again and have more children, so she cannot provide them with new husbands.

What does this verse say about Naomi's attitude?

Naomi shows a realistic and pragmatic view of her own situation, accepting her age and the limitations it brings on her ability to start a new family.

How does this verse reflect the cultural norms of the time?

This verse highlights the societal norms where widows were often expected to return to their families, especially if the possibility of remarriage was unlikely.

What can we learn from Naomi's decision?

Naomi's decision teaches us the importance of being honest about our circumstances and making choices that are best for those around us, even if it means letting go of close relationships.