1:2 Elimelech. Although the story might have climaxed with God’s provision of an immediate heir for the deceased Elimelech, the drama emphasizes the role of the women in the family (4:14, 16) and the passing significance of Elimelech as a remote ancestor of David (4:17–22).

Naomi. Lit. “pleasant” (vv. 20–21). Naomi’s story is told first.