Who was Elimelech?

Husband of Naomi

The story of Elimelech

Elimelech - Head of the household
Elimelech - Head of the household
Head of the household

Elimelech was a biblical figure from the Book of Ruth in the Hebrew Bible. He was the husband of Naomi and the father of Mahlon and Chilion. Elimelech was from the tribe of Judah and was a wealthy landowner. He and his family lived in Bethlehem, but due to a famine, Elimelech decided to move his family to Moab. Unfortunately, Elimelech died in Moab, leaving his wife and two sons behind. Elimelech is best known for his role in the Book of Ruth. After his death, his sons married Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. When his sons died, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem with her daughters-in-law. Ruth, however, chose to stay with Naomi and follow the God of Israel. Ruth and Boaz eventually married and had a son, Obed, who was the grandfather of King David. Elimelech's story is an example of faithfulness and loyalty. He was a devoted husband and father who was willing to move his family to a foreign land in order to provide for them. His story is also a reminder of the importance of faith and loyalty to God, as Ruth chose to stay with Naomi and follow the God of Israel. Elimelech's legacy is one of faithfulness and loyalty, and his story is an important part of the Bible.

Name meaning

The name "Elimelech" is of Hebrew origin and is found in the Bible. It is most commonly recognized as the name of Naomi's husband in the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament. The name "Elimelech" is typically understood to mean "My God is King" or "God is King," derived from the Hebrew elements: "Eli" (my God) and "Melech" (king). This name reflects a strong religious sentiment, emphasizing the sovereignty of God.

Name origin

Hebrew

Role

Head of the household

First mention

Ruth 1:2

Appearances in the Bible

6 mentions

Elimelech in the Bible

Explore all 3 chapters where Elimelech appears

Ruth

Chapter 1

Naomi and Her Daughters-in-Law

A man named Elimelech and his family, including his two sons and wife Naomi, move to Moab due to a famine in Israel.

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Ruth

Chapter 2

Ruth and Boaz in the Field

Elimelech and his two sons die, and his daughter-in-laws Orpah and Ruth choose to stay with Naomi and return to Israel w...

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Ruth

Chapter 4

The Genealogy of Boaz and Ruth

Boaz, a wealthy relative of Elimelech, takes notice of Ruth and shows her kindness.

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