Moab

Overview

• Type: Nation / region east of the Dead Sea
• Testament: Old
• Modern Location: In the region of modern Jordan

Biblical Significance

Moab is both a recurring enemy-neighbor of Israel and the homeland of Ruth. In Ruth, Moab becomes the place of exile, grief, and the unlikely starting point for a line that leads to David and ultimately Christ.

Key Events

• Deaths in Moab - Naomi loses her husband and sons there
• Ruth’s Vow to Naomi - Ruth leaves Moab for the God of Israel

Key People Associated

• Ruth - Native of Moab
• Naomi - Sojourned there in famine
• Elimelech - Led his family there

Important Verses

“And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there.” - Ruth 1:2

Cross-References

• Ruth
• Judges
• Deuteronomy 23:3-6

Notes

Moab is a place of famine-flight and funeral sorrow, yet God turns even this outsider setting into part of His redemptive plan.