Naomi: A Character Portrayal of Loss, Resilience And Faith
Text: RUTH 1, RUTH 2, RUTH 3, RUTH 4.
Naomi is a character from the bible that we can relate to. Naomi was a central figure in the book of Ruth. Her story offers us a portrayal of faith, sufferings, heartbreak, death of loved ones and resilience.
In the book of Ruth 1-22 we are introduce to Naomi, she was a woman from Bethlehem in Judah, married to Elimelech an Ephrathite and also had two sons Mahlon and Kilion. Naomi and her family left Bethlehem as a result of famine and went to land of Moab. Her tragedy started from there, she lost her husband and ten years later lost her sons. What a great loss! for her and her daughter in-laws orphan and Ruth. Naomi was without a husband and sons. She heard that the famine has left Bethlehem she decided to return to her home country with her daughter-in-laws but along the way she decided to send them back to their people. Orpah left while Ruth decided to go with Naomi to her people.
Both women continued their journey and later arrived in Bethlehem the whole town was surprised to see her and asked is that not Naomi? The loss of her husband and sons leads to bitterness, and she even asks to be called “Mara” which means “bitter” instead of Naomi, which means “pleasant” (Ruth 1:20). She continued her life in Bethlehem However, through Ruth’s steadfast love and loyalty, Naomi’s faith was renewed. Ruth’s determination to provide for Naomi led her to glean in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy landowner who eventually became their kinsman-redeemer.
Naomi’s wisdom and guidance played a crucial role in orchestrating Ruth and Boaz’s union, leading to their marriage and the birth of Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David. Naomi’s journey from sorrow to joy serves as a powerful testament to the faithfulness of God and the enduring strength of familial bonds. In the end, Naomi’s sorrow and bitterness are turned to joy, as the Lord provides for both her and Ruth.
Lessons To Be Learnt
1. Redemption And Restoration:
Naomi’s story is ultimately one of redemption and restoration. Through Ruth’s actions and the providence of God, Naomi’s life is transformed from one of bitterness and despair to one of joy and fulfilment. This teaches us to have faith in the possibility of redemption and the power of God to bring restoration even in our darkest moments.
2. Perseverance In Times of Adversity:
Despite facing immense hardships, including the loss of her husband and sons, Naomi persists in her journey back to Bethlehem. Her resilience serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity
3. Community and Support:
Community and Support: Naomi’s return to Bethlehem also emphasizes the importance of community and support networks during times of need. She finds solace and assistance from her relatives and neighbors and daughter-in-law Ruth whose loyalty and love encouraged her underscoring the significance of leaning on others for help and encouragement.
Naomi’s story is a story every one of us can relate to we all have been in her shoes one way or the other but her story teaches us the transformative power of faith and resilience and also the providence of God in that situation when you surrender it to God.
