Naomi (fl. 1100 BCE)

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Naomi (fl. 1100 bce)

Biblical woman. Name variations: Noemi. Born in Bethlehem, in Judah; m. Elimelech; mother-in-law of Ruth; children: Mahlon (who m. Ruth); Chilion (who m. Orpah).

Made her home in Bethlehem with husband and sons, until the great famine forced the family to migrate to Moab, east of the Dead Sea; over next 10 years, lost both husband and sons, after which she made plans to return to her homeland, accompanied by daughter-in-law Ruth.

See also Women in World History.