Location Map
Bethlehem and Moab were sited on opposite sides of the Dead Sea, with Bethlehem in the hills to the west, and Moab to the east.
Credit: Satellite Bible Atlas / BiblePlaces.com
Bethlehem
This 1966 photo shows fields east of Bethlehem, looking toward the distant hills of Moab.
Credit: David Bivin / BiblePlaces.com
Kir of Moab
Elimelech's family may have moved to this area, site of the prominent Moabite city Kir. The hilltop is now dominated by Kerak Castle, built by crusaders in AD 1140.
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Crossing the Dead Sea
There are at least two routes that Naomi and Ruth could have taken to the other side of the Dead Sea. One route circled around the north of the sea, while another went across the Lisan (tongue) and a patch of relatively shallow water between the sea's northern and southern basins.
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Ascent of Ziz
If Naomi and Ruth crossed the Dead Sea at the Lisan, they likely proceeded up the Ascent of Ziz on their way to Bethlehem. This photo shows the rugged terrain of that route.
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The Approach to Bethlehem
This photo from 1920-1933 gives an idea of the view Naomi and Ruth had as they approached Bethlehem. The town was sited on the hill in the distance, handy to the surrounding fields.
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