A Guide to the Book of Ruth

Welcome to the beautiful and poignant story of Ruth! This little book, nestled in the historical books of the Old Testament, punches well above its weight. It’s a story of love, loss, loyalty, and ultimately, redemption, resonating across cultures and centuries. It’s a story that speaks to the heart of the human condition and whispers of God’s quiet, yet powerful, providence.

Setting the Scene: A Time of Judges

The Book of Ruth is set “in the days when the judges ruled” (Ruth 1:1). This period was a turbulent time in Israel’s history, marked by cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. It was a time of moral ambiguity, where “everyone did what was right in their own eyes” (Judges 21:25). Against this backdrop of instability and uncertainty, Ruth’s story unfolds, offering a beacon of hope and faithfulness.

A Family’s Journey: From Bethlehem to Moab

The story begins in Bethlehem, the “house of bread,” ironically struck by famine. Elimelech and his wife Naomi, along with their two sons, leave Bethlehem and journey to Moab, a neighbouring land, seeking sustenance. Moab was not a place favored by the Israelites; they were descendants of Lot and often considered outside the covenant. This move sets the stage for the challenges and transformations that follow.

Loss and Loyalty: The Bonds that Remain

Tragedy strikes in Moab. Elimelech dies, leaving Naomi a widow with her two sons. The sons marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. But sorrow continues as both sons also die, leaving Naomi and her daughters-in-law in a desperate situation. Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, urging her daughters-in-law to return to their own families. Orpah reluctantly agrees, but Ruth makes a powerful declaration of loyalty to Naomi: “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). This declaration is a turning point, not only in Ruth’s life but in the entire narrative.

A Foreigner Finds Favour: Gleaning in the Fields

Ruth’s unwavering loyalty leads her to Bethlehem with Naomi. As widows, they are destitute. Ruth, demonstrating both humility and resourcefulness, goes to glean in the fields of Boaz, a kinsman of Elimelech. Gleaning was a practice that allowed the poor to gather leftover grain after the harvest, a provision of God’s law (Leviticus 19:9-10). Boaz, a man of character and integrity, notices Ruth’s hard work and kindness towards Naomi. He shows her favour, allowing her to glean in his fields and protecting her from harm.

Kinsman-Redeemer: A Love Story with Deeper Meaning

Naomi, recognizing Boaz’s kindness and knowing he is a kinsman-redeemer, advises Ruth to approach him with a request for marriage, following the custom of the time. The kinsman-redeemer had the responsibility to redeem the property of a deceased relative and to marry his widow, ensuring the family line continued. Boaz, after confirming that another kinsman was unwilling to fulfil this role, takes Ruth as his wife.

A Lineage of Blessing: From Ruth to David

Ruth and Boaz’s marriage is blessed, and they have a son, Obed. Obed becomes the father of Jesse, who becomes the father of King David. Thus, Ruth, the Moabite woman, becomes an ancestor of the greatest king of Israel, and ultimately, of Jesus Christ himself. This connection highlights the inclusive nature of God’s grace and the unexpected ways He works out His plan of salvation. As Catholics, we recognize this foreshadowing of the universal call to salvation, extended to all people.

Reading Ruth: What to Look For

As you read Ruth, pay attention to the themes of loyalty, love, and redemption. Notice how God’s providence is at work even in the midst of hardship and loss. Consider the significance of Ruth’s foreign origin and how it challenges the boundaries of Israelite society. Reflect on the character of Boaz, a righteous man who embodies the qualities of a true leader.

Difficult Concepts: The Custom of Redemption

The concept of the kinsman-redeemer might seem strange to modern readers. It’s important to understand this custom within its historical and cultural context. It was a way of ensuring the survival of families and preserving their inheritance. It also points towards the ultimate Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who redeems us from our sin and restores us to our rightful place as children of God.

Ruth’s story is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring nature of love. It’s a story that reminds us that even in the darkest of times, hope remains, and God’s grace can transform lives in unexpected ways. Enjoy your journey through this beautiful book!