Definition: And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, [or] to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people [shall be] my people, and thy God my God:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this beautiful passage from Ruth 1:16. It’s a really powerful and moving verse that shows incredible loyalty and devotion. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Ruth is saying to Naomi, “Don’t worry about me leaving you. I’ll follow you wherever you go, and I’ll do whatever you need.” She’s offering her unwavering support and commitment. Let's unpack the details: "And Ruth said..." : This sets up the context – Ruth is speaking from a position of deep feeling. "[Or] to return from following after thee:" : This part emphasizes her willingness to stay with Naomi, even if she has to move away. It’s not just about wanting to be near; she genuinely wants to remain connected to her family. "For whither thou goest, I will go..." : This is the key phrase. Ruth is saying, "I’ll follow you no matter where you are." She's willing to travel with Naomi, even if it means moving to a new place. "...and where thou lodgest, I will lodge:" : This is an expression of comfort and security for Naomi. “Where you rest, I’ll rest too.” It highlights her desire for safety and stability. "thy people [shall be] my people, and thy God my God:" : This is the most important part – Ruth offers a promise of unwavering loyalty. She says: "My people, and your God, my God ." What does this mean in a bigger picture? This passage highlights several important themes: Loyalty & Commitment: Ruth shows immense devotion to Naomi. It’s not just about being near; she's willing to sacrifice her own comfort and safety for her family. Faith & Trust: She trusts that God will protect and guide her, regardless of the circumstances. Divine Protection: The verse speaks to a divine connection – Ruth is placing her faith in God to provide for her. In essence, this verse is a testament to Ruth's deep love and commitment, demonstrating the power of unwavering loyalty. It’s a beautiful example of how faith can be expressed through action and devotion. --- Would you like me to: Explain any specific part of the verse in more detail? Provide context about the story of Ruth?