Commentators are split as to what is implied in this initial question of Naomi.2 Is she concerned with providing an heir for the family line of Elimelek, or is she simply concerned (in a general sense) with Ruth’s welfare? In other words, is she proposing here a levirate marriage that will possibly provide an heir or simply a marriage that will relieve Ruth of her destitute widowhood and provide security for her? The latter seems to be the primary focus of Naomi. Hubbard observes: Besides seeing Ruth happily settled, Naomi probably also wanted to provide for Ruth’s uncertain fate after Naomi’s
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