Ruth 1:2
And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Beth–lehem–judah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there.
Cross-reference
Ruth 4:11
Parallel
Ruth 4:11 blesses Boaz and Ruth in Ephrathah and Bethlehem, directly echoing the opening setting and completing the narrative arc.
Genesis 35:19
Historical context
Genesis 35:19 identifies Ephrath as Bethlehem, explaining why the family are called Ephrathites.
Micah 5:2
Prophetic fulfillment
Micah 5:2 prophesies the Messiah from Bethlehem Ephrathah, giving the town messianic significance that enriches the setting of Ruth.
Genesis 48:7
Historical context
Genesis 48:7 recounts Rachel's burial at Ephrath (Bethlehem), reinforcing the location's significance as a family burial site.