Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The Book of Ruth is a cherished narrative within the Old Testament, situated between the books of Judges and 1 Samuel. It is a short yet profound account that highlights themes of loyalty, providence, and redemption. The book is traditionally attributed to the prophet Samuel, although its authorship remains uncertain. It is set during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and religious upheaval in Israel. Historical Context: The narrative unfolds during the era of the judges, a time characterized by a cyclical pattern of Israel's disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The account of Ruth provides a contrast to the chaos of this period, offering a glimpse of faithfulness and divine providence amidst widespread moral decline. Structure and Content: The Book of Ruth is composed of four chapters: 1. Ruth 1: The account begins with a famine in Bethlehem, prompting Elimelech and his wife Naomi to migrate to Moab with their two sons. After the deaths of Elimelech and his sons, Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem. Ruth, her Moabite daughter-in-law, famously pledges her loyalty to Naomi, saying, "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God" (Ruth 1:16). 2. Ruth 2: Upon their return to Bethlehem, Ruth gleans in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Elimelech. Boaz shows kindness to Ruth, ensuring her safety and providing her with food. His actions reflect the law of gleaning, which allowed the poor to gather leftover crops, as outlined in Leviticus 19:9-10. 3. Ruth 3: Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor, seeking his protection as a kinsman-redeemer. Ruth's actions are both bold and respectful, and Boaz responds favorably, acknowledging her virtue and promising to resolve the matter of redemption. 4. Ruth 4: Boaz fulfills his role as kinsman-redeemer by legally acquiring the right to marry Ruth, thus preserving the family line of Elimelech. Their union is blessed with a son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David, establishing Ruth's place in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Theological Themes: · Loyalty and Devotion: Ruth's unwavering commitment to Naomi exemplifies the virtues of loyalty and selflessness. Her declaration in Ruth 1:16-17 is often cited as a model of faithfulness and devotion. · Providence and Redemption: The narrative underscores God's providential care and the concept of redemption. Boaz's role as kinsman-redeemer prefigures the redemptive work of Christ, who redeems humanity from sin. · Inclusivity and God's Sovereignty: Ruth, a Moabite, becomes an integral part of Israel's history, illustrating God's inclusive plan and sovereignty. Her inclusion in the genealogy of David and ultimately Jesus (Matthew 1:5) highlights the universal scope of God's redemptive purposes. Significance: The Book of Ruth is a testament to the power of faith and the workings of divine providence. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His people and His ability to bring about redemption through unexpected means. The account of Ruth and Boaz is not only a narrative of personal devotion and loyalty but also a foreshadowing of the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ. Smith's Bible Dictionary Book Of Ruthcontains the history of Ruth, as narrated in the preceding article. The main object of the writer is evidently to give an account of David's ancestors; and the book was avowedly composed long after the time of the heroine. See (Ruth 1:1; 4:7,17) Its date and author are quite uncertain. Tradition is in favor of Samuel. It is probable that the books of Judges, Ruth, Samuel and Kings originally formed but one work. The book of Ruth clearly forms part of the books of Samuel, supplying as it does the essential point of David's genealogy and early family history, and is no less clearly connected with the book of Judges by its opening verse and the epoch to which the whole book relates. Library Ruth Ruth Ruth and Naomi. The Christian's Book A Gentle Heroine, a Gentile Convert Expositions of Holy Scripture Judges and Ruth. The Canonical Books. Now the Whole Canon of Scripture on which we Say this Judgment is ... The Story of Ruth, the Gleaner Resources What is the Book of Adam and Eve? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Book of Life? | GotQuestions.org What is the Book of Jubilees and should it be in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Book: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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