1-2. Before Israel was ruled by kings, Elimelech from the tribe of Ephrath lived in the town of Bethlehem. His wife was named Naomi, and their two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. But when their crops failed, they moved to the country of Moab. And while they were there,
3. Elimelech died, leaving Naomi with only her two sons.
4. Later, Naomi's sons married Moabite women. One was named Orpah and the other Ruth. About ten years later,
5. Mahlon and Chilion also died. Now Naomi had no husband or sons.
8. Naomi said to them, “Don't you want to go back home to your own mothers? You were kind to my husband and sons, and you have always been kind to me. I pray that the Lord will be just as kind to you.
9. May he give each of you another husband and a home of your own.”Naomi kissed them. They cried
10. and said, “We want to go with you and live among your people.”
11. But she replied, “My daughters, why don't you return home? What good will it do you to go with me? Do you think I could have more sons for you to marry?