Ruth 1:18

When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַתֵּ֕רֶא

H7200

When she saw

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מִתְאַמֶּ֥צֶת

H553

that she was stedfastly minded

to be alert, physically (on foot) or mentally (in courage)

הִ֖יא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

לָלֶ֣כֶת

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

אִתָּ֑הּ

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

וַתֶּחְדַּ֖ל

H2308

with her then she left

properly, to be flabby, i.e., (by implication) desist; (figuratively) be lacking or idle

לְדַבֵּ֥ר

H1696

speaking

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

אֵלֶֽיהָ׃

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ruth, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Ruth's theological argument.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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