Ruth: Of Loyalty and Treason

Why do Elimelekh and his sons die? And why had they left the Land of Israel in the first place – if their purpose was to escape the famine, then going to Moav would not ameliorate their situation, as Moav would ostensibly be similarly affected. We turn to the stories of Lot and Avraham as well as the Book of Shoftim, supplemented by Midrash and commentary, to help us explore the mystery of the famine and the journey to Moav.  This famine is not caused by rain: this famine is caused by war. His decision to go to Moav is not about leaving the Land of Israel, but rather an act of treason - which contrasts the loyalty and courage of Rut, Naomi, and Boaz.