Elimelech
Overview
- Testament: Old
- Role: Naomi’s husband
- Family: Husband of Naomi, father of Mahlon and Chilion
- Key Books: Ruth
Biography
Elimelech was a man of Bethlehem who took his family to Moab during famine. He died there, leaving Naomi widowed and setting the stage for Ruth’s loyalty and Boaz’s redemption.
Key Events
- Famine in Bethlehem - Leaves Bethlehem for Moab
- Deaths in Moab - Dies in Moab
Relationships
Important Verses
- Ruth 1:2-3 - Elimelech goes to Moab and dies there.
Cross-References
- Mentioned in: Ruth
Notes
Elimelech’s name means “my God is king,” an important irony in a book set during the days when Israel had no king.