Naomi

Naomi was an Israelite woman who left Bethlehem with her husband and sons during a severe famine. After becoming a widow in Moab, she returned home with her devoted daughter-in-law Ruth. Grief made Naomi so bitter that she asked her neighbors to call her Mara, yet she continued guiding Ruth through an uncertain new life. She understood Bethlehem's customs and recognized the kindness of their relative Boaz. Naomi encouraged Ruth to seek his protection as the family's kinsman-redeemer. Her hope slowly returned as provision, love, and family grew from what had seemed like complete loss. Honest about her pain and practical in caring for Ruth, Naomi discovered that bitterness did not have to be the final word over her future.