In the days when the judges ruled Israel, a man named Elimelech, facing a devastating famine in Bethlehem, took his wife, Naomi, and their two sons, Mahlon and Chilion, to the land of Moab. They hoped to find food and safety, but the journey led them into unforeseen hardships. 

In Moab, tragedy struck. Elimelech passed away, leaving Naomi a widow in a foreign land. Despite her grief, she found solace in her sons, who eventually married Moabite women named Ruth and Orpah. For a time, the family managed to find joy amidst their sorrows. However, tragedy struck again when both Mahlon and Chilion died, leaving Naomi with her two daughters-in-law but no means of support.

Devastated and longing for her homeland, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem. She gathered her daughters-in-law and set out on the road. As they walked together, Naomi turned to Ruth and Orpah and said, “Go back, each of you, to your mother’s home. May the Lord show you kindness, as you have shown kindness to your dead husbands and to me.”

Orpah, torn but ultimately convinced by Naomi’s plea, kissed her mother-in-law goodbye and returned to her people. But Ruth, filled with determination and loyalty, clung to Naomi and declared, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God my God.”

Moved by Ruth’s unwavering commitment, Naomi accepted her decision, and together they journeyed back to Bethlehem. Upon their arrival, the townspeople were surprised to see Naomi, who had returned empty-handed and grieving. She said, “Don’t call me Naomi," which means 'pleasant,' "call me Mara," meaning 'bitter,' for the Almighty has made my life very bitter.”

Upon returning to Bethlehem, Ruth supports Naomi by gleaning in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi's late husband. Boaz notices Ruth's dedication and kindness and eventually marries her, ensuring Naomi's security and restoring their family’s fortunes. 

As time passed, Ruth and Boaz were blessed with a son named Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David. Naomi, once bitter and empty, found herself cradling her grandson, filled with joy and gratitude for the kindness of God. The story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz became a testament to loyalty, redemption, and the unfolding of God’s providential plan, showcasing how love and faith can bring new beginnings even in the face of adversity.