The answer is: Famine in his home town

Ruth 1:1 - The name "Elimelech" literally means "My God [is] King".

When a famine struck Bethlehem, Elimelech made a significant, and perhaps desperate, choice to move his family to Moab. This move to a foreign land ultimately resulted in a series of events that opened the door for a remarkable tale of love, loyalty, and redemption. Elimelech's name, meaning "My God is King," adds a layer of irony to the situation. Despite having a name that signifies divine leadership, his decision could indicate a struggle in faith when faced with hardship.

Interestingly, Moab, inhabited by the descendants of Lot, was not exactly a friendly territory for Israelites. In fact, the Moabites historically had conflicts with Israel, which makes Elimelech's choice quite intriguing. He was seeking basic survival but stepping into a risky world where the values and culture were quite different.

As we look at the broader narrative of Ruth, we see that this initial act set the stage for the cross-cultural bond between Naomi, the childless widow, and Ruth, a Moabite woman. Their relationship elegantly paints a picture of inclusion and belonging, challenging boundaries and reminding us that compassion knows no nationality.

It’s worth noting that later in the Bible, Moab’s lineage connects to King David. The story reshapes our understanding of both tragedy and lineage in profound ways, showing how unexpected choices lead to unexpected blessings.