History · Old Testament
The Book of Ruth
Ruth tells the story of a Moabite woman's loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and her redemption through Boaz, showing God's providential care and His inclusion of all peoples in His plan.
- Chapters
- 4
- Testament
- Old
- Category
- History
- Traditional Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
Overview
During the time of the judges, Naomi and her family leave Bethlehem for Moab due to famine. After her husband and sons die, Naomi returns to Bethlehem with her daughter-in-law Ruth, who pledges to stay with her and follow her God. Ruth gleans in the field of Boaz, a relative of Naomi's husband. Boaz acts as a kinsman-redeemer, marrying Ruth and restoring Naomi's family line. Ruth becomes the great-grandmother of King David.
Key Themes
- Loyal love and faithfulness
- The kinsman-redeemer
- God's providence and care
- God's inclusion of Gentiles in His purposes
Key Verses
"But Ruth said: "Entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.""
Ruth 1:16 (NKJV)
"The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge."
Ruth 2:12 (NKJV)
How It Applies Today
Ruth demonstrates that faithful loyalty and trust in God bring blessing, even in the most difficult circumstances. The story of Boaz as kinsman-redeemer illustrates the concept of redemption. Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of David shows that God's grace extends to all who come to Him for refuge.