Book of Ruth - Chapter 1 - Verse 20

Naomi, a character from the Book of Ruth in the Bible, experiences deep sorrow and loss in her life. In this particular verse, Naomi expresses her grief by asking others to call her "Mara," which means bitter. This name change reflects the hardships she has faced, feeling abandoned by God and overwhelmed by the bitterness of her circumstances. Naomi's honesty about her struggles serves as a reminder that it is okay to express our pain and vulnerability to God and to others. Despite the bitterness she feels, Naomi's story ultimately shows how God can bring restoration and redemption even in the midst of our darkest moments. Through Naomi's journey, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's plan and finding hope in the midst of adversity.

Naomi's name means "pleasant" or "sweetness," while Mara means "bitterness." In this verse, Naomi is requesting to be called Mara instead of her original name, as she feels that her suffering has been so severe that it has changed her identity. This change in name reflects the transformation she has undergone due to the trials she has faced. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the theme of suffering and the sovereignty of God. Naomi acknowledges that it is the Almighty who has allowed these bitter experiences to come into her life, and she submits to His will. This verse highlights the complexity of human emotions and experiences, showing that even in times of deep sorrow, there is room for faith and trust in God. Through this word study, we gain a deeper understanding of the significance of names in biblical narratives and the symbolic meaning behind the change from Naomi to Mara.