# Ruth and Naomi explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper.

## What happens

Naomi, bereft of husband and sons, urges her daughters-in-law to return to their own people. Orpah tearfully departs, but Ruth refuses to leave, pledging unwavering loyalty and declaring that Naomi's people and God shall be her own.

## Themes in this chapter

### Motherhood and Family

Naomi's loss of husband and sons and Ruth's filial devotion redefine family bonds beyond blood.

### Resilience and Sacrifice

Ruth sacrifices her homeland and future for Naomi, demonstrating profound resilience and loyalty.

## Character check-ins

### Naomi

Naomi, widowed and childless, laments her sorrow and urges her daughters-in-law to leave her.

### Ruth

Ruth refuses to abandon Naomi, pledging to share her lot and adopt her people and God.

## Key lines

> I will not leave thee, on thy brow Are lines of sorrow, age and care; Thy form is bent, thy step is slow, Thy bosom stricken, lone and sear.

Ruth declares she will not abandon Naomi despite her aged, sorrowful appearance.

_Ruth's vow of loyalty transcends Naomi's physical and emotional frailty._

> My country and my home for thee, I freely, willingly resign, Thy people shall my people be, Thy God he shall be mine.

Ruth gives up her own nation and family, adopting Naomi's people and faith as her own.

_This line encapsulates Ruth's complete self-sacrifice and conversion._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se/chapters/ruth-and-naomi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se/chapters