Ruth 1:10

Authorized King James Version

And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַתֹּאמַ֖רְנָה
And they said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
לָּ֑הּ
H0
#3
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
אִתָּ֥ךְ
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
#5
נָשׁ֖וּב
unto her Surely we will return
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#6
לְעַמֵּֽךְ׃
with thee unto thy people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing covenant community contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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