In the Bible, the term “Ammonitess” refers to a woman or women from the ancient people known as the Ammonites, who were descendants of Lot, the nephew of the patriarch Abraham. The Ammonites inhabited the region east of the Jordan River, in what is now modern-day Jordan. They were considered one of the neighboring nations of ancient Israel, and their interactions with the Israelites are recorded throughout the Old Testament.
The designation “Ammonitess” is used to denote the nationality or lineage of a woman who is identified as being from the Ammonite people. It often appears in the context of genealogies, historical narratives, or accounts of marriages and alliances involving individuals from different nations.
One notable example of the term “Ammonitess” is found in the story of Ruth in the Old Testament book of Ruth. Ruth is described as a Moabite woman who married into an Israelite family but later became a follower of the God of Israel. Her loyalty and devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi, as well as her commitment to the God of Israel, exemplify her faithfulness and righteousness. Despite being a foreigner by birth, Ruth’s story is celebrated for her virtue and her inclusion in the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ.
The term “Ammonitess” is also used in other passages of the Bible to describe women who were part of the Ammonite nation. These references serve to contextualize historical events, cultural dynamics, and the relationships between different peoples in the ancient Near East.
Overall, the term “Ammonitess” in the Bible carries significance in delineating the identity and heritage of women associated with the Ammonite people. It provides insight into the historical and social contexts of biblical narratives and contributes to the overall tapestry of biblical storytelling and theology.