Person · Bible dictionary
Naomi
The mother-in-law of Ruth, who returned bitter from Moab having lost her husband and sons — and was given joy through Ruth's loyalty and Boaz's kindness.
Naomi left Bethlehem during a famine and returned years later widowed, with only her devoted daughter-in-law Ruth at her side.
She told the women not to call her Naomi ("pleasant") but Mara ("bitter") — yet by the book's end she was holding a grandson, ancestor of David.
Her story is one of God's quiet provision through ordinary kindness.
Original BibleDawn entry. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.