Many have regarded the book of Ruth as an inspiring piece of sacred literature with an important message. The Book of Ruth (abbreviated Rth) (Hebrew: מגילת רות ‎, Megilath Ruth, "the Scroll of Ruth", one of the Five Megillot) is included in the third division, or the Writings (), of the Hebrew Bible; in most Christian canons it is treated as a history book and placed between Judges and 1 Samuel.. 11 And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? Events in this book occur during the time of the judges in Israel (Ruth 1:1), probably in the 12th century B.C., perhaps 50 to 100 years before the birth of David. chose the Lord for her God (1:16), and placed her life under his wing (2:12). The unseen hand of God was at work to bring all these things to pass, especially when we consider that King David and Jesus Christ Himself descended from this special woman. Title: Ancient versions and modern translations consistently entitle this book after Ruth the Moabitess heroine, who is mentioned by name 12 times (1:4 – 4:13). Sign up to receive the week's latest articles, blog posts and updates. 11 And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. A literary masterpiece of the English language, the original King James Bible is 17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. Again, Naomi urged her to return to her people and her gods. The book of Ruth tells a touching story of the love and devotion of an ancestor of David and Jesus Christ. Let’s look at the story itself and see just what it is that produced such glowing reviews. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept. 5 Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, Whose damsel is this? 4 And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do. Ruth follows Joshua and Go To Ruth Index. 11 And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman. 13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son. and where wroughtest thou? 9 And Boaz said unto the elders, and unto all the people, Ye are witnesses this day, that I have bought all that was Elimelech's, and all that was Chilion's and Mahlon's, of the hand of Naomi. 7 And she said, I pray you, let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves: so she came, and hath continued even from the morning until now, that she tarried a little in the house. Read the full text of the Book of Ruth in Hebrew and English on Sefaria. So he drew off his shoe. 5 And Mahlon and Chilion died also both of them; and the woman was left of her two sons and her husband. Boaz means “he comes in strength” and Obed, Ruth and Boaz’s son means “servant”. 5-29-60 8:15 a.m. To you who listen on the radio, you are sharing with us the services of the First Baptist Church in Dallas. 2 And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Ruth is one of the most significant books in the Old Testament for the Church. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter. This is a powerful moral of the story we can learn from this remarkable woman. in 1604 to establish an authoritative translation of the Bible from the ancient languages and other translations at the time, and the work was completed in 1611. 14 And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one could know another. 11 And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore. And he turned aside, and sat down. 9 The LORD grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor. Purpose of Writing: The Book of Ruth … If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons; All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the New King James Version (© 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.). 3 Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking. God’s presence in the book of Ruth is felt in the “chance” meeting of Boaz and Ruth. The Book of Ruth is called ῾Ρούθ in the Greek Septuagint. Ruth is one of the five Festival Scrolls, also known as the Megilloth, in the Writings section of the Old Testament. The Book of Ruth is an important historical work in Hebrew Scripture, our Old Testament of the Bible, as it traces the lineage of King David and ultimately that of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The spell of the book is altogether irresistible, for it lies in the heroine whose name it bears; and the chief charm of Ruth herself is her unselfish and devoted love of all that is finest in the physical and spiritual world” (Dr. A. Cohen, p. 36). 1:1-5: Elimelech and his family go to Moab. 1 Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee? It is only four chapters long. 5 And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do. Jashow.org for more information The book of Ruth is one of the most moving accounts in the Bible, a story of love and loyalty that is a stark contrast to today's cynical, throwaway society. I… 12 Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. For a quick link to all the other books of the Bible, see “Books of the Bible” on the Learning Center. Keil and Franz Delitzsch in Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, p. 466). The original King James Bible included the Apocrypha but in a separate section. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left. Loyal love is an important theme of the book (Hebrew hesed or checed; translated “kindly” and “kindness” in Ruth 1:8; 2:20; and 3:10). Several aspects of the Book of Ruth that are important are the themes of tolerance and redemption. He is the One who orders all the circumstances of daily life, even for the most unimportant people” (Eerdmans’ Handbook to the Bible, 1973, p. 226). If thou wilt redeem it, redeem it: but if thou wilt not redeem it, then tell me, that I may know: for there is none to redeem it beside thee; and I am after thee. “Boaz willingly took on this duty, even though he was not the nearest relative (3:12, 13). the Spring Jewish Harvest Festival in the lunar month of Sivan (May or early June). 11. Alexander Schroder, a literary critic, said, “No poet in the world has written a more beautiful short story” (quoted by C.F. 13 Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens. Did she really just happen by accident to go to work in his fields? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens: 5 Then said Boaz, What day thou buyest the field of the hand of Naomi, thou must buy it also of Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance. are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? 10 Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger? 6 Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread. turn aside, sit down here. 16 And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not. Its plot is hopeful and sweet. Book of Ruth, Old Testament book belonging to the third section of the biblical canon, known as the Ketuvim, or Writings. “The kinsman-redeemer was ‘the defender of family rights.’ This individual was a close relative who had the financial resources to rescue a poverty-stricken family member, stepping in to save that relative from slavery or from having to sell the family’s ancestral land. Without this little book, we could not connect the house of David with the tribe of Judah. The book, written in Hebrew in the 6th–4th centuries BC, tells of a Moabite woman, Ruth … and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God. And she told her all that the man had done to her. 2. The kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew goel; “close relative” in Ruth 3:9) highlights the theme of redemption. blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. In this day of instant gratification, it is good to be reminded of this timeless lesson about the way to find real happiness and fulfillment. Think about the names of the characters and what they mean to the story when you revisit the book of Ruth. How Should a Christian Deal With the Coronavirus Pandemic? Ruth was a Moabite woman, whose sense of piety and devotion to her mother-in-law Naomi led to her marriage to the prominent Boaz of … The author was anonymous but some believe it was perhaps written by Samuel the prophet; however, it is unlikely that he was alive when this book was written. 3 And he said unto the kinsman, Naomi, that is come again out of the country of Moab, selleth a parcel of land, which was our brother Elimelech's: Naomi later on lost her husband and she was left with her two sons. 4 And I thought to advertise thee, saying, Buy it before the inhabitants, and before the elders of my people. All rights reserved. He died and subsequently his sons married women from Moab, Orpah and Ruth. How Doing the Right Thing Often Takes Great Sacrifice. And when she held it, he measured six measures of barley, and laid [it] on her: and she went into the city. 20 And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon, 17 And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law. In the story of Ruth, Boaz redeemed the land that Naomi was about to sell. 18 Now these are the generations of Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron, 18 And she took it up, and went into the city: and her mother in law saw what she had gleaned: and she brought forth, and gave to her that she had reserved after she was sufficed. While working in the fields she was noticed by Boaz, a wealthy landowner, who also happened to be related to the family of Naomi’s husband. 10 Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the dead be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his place: ye are witnesses this day. “The most striking feature of this simple and beautiful story is the sense of God’s intimate concern in humble affairs. The Hebrew word translated as kindly in 1:8 means ‘loyal love’ or ‘covenantal love.’ This was a genuine love that keeps promises. THE SPIRITUAL MEANING OF THE BOOK OF RUTH. 21 And Salmon begat Boaz, and Boaz begat Obed, The name Ruth means “friend” as she remains loyal to Naomi. 21 I went out full, and the LORD hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the LORD hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me? Roy and Pauline Demarest have been married for more than 50 years and have three sons and six grandchildren. Ruth, biblical character, a woman who after being widowed remains with her husband’s mother. It is the second of five Megillot or Scrolls that are read during the Festivals of the Lord nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me. 22 And Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David. Although there was strife, evil and lawlessness generally throughout the time of the judges, the story of Ruth offers us an insight into how the blessings and guidance of God can be bestowed even in difficult times. 12 And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the LORD shall give thee of this young woman. 22 And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field. 14 And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. 8 And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet. in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew (1:4-6) in the New Testament of the Bible. 17 And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David. 3: Ruth appeals to Boaz to be the kinsman-redeemer. Roy served as pastor of the Orlando, Florida, congregation of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association, until his retirement in 2020. Did the events leading to this marriage all just work out by chance? God is not impressed with our wealth, fame or power. Author: The Book of Ruth does not specifically name its author. Structure of the Book of Ruth. 19 And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? The LORD do so to me, and more also, if anything but death parts you and me” (Ruth 1:16-17). The Book of Ruth was part of the Writings of Hebrew Scripture. Historical Books of the Greek Septuagint Old Testament, and continues as such in the Latin Vulgate and our Christian Old Testament. Inclusivity: Ruth, a Moabite, voluntarily embraces Naomi's people, land, culture, and God. All seem to be captured by its timeless message of faith, personal sacrifice and the deeper issues of life and human fulfillment. Boaz also showed the same noble quality by protecting and providing for Ruth, a widow of one of his relatives. The book of Ruth is such a touching love story and such a charming tale of emptiness to abundance that we can easily think there is nothing more to it. What is it about this story that has inspired people throughout history? Ruth immediately went to work in the fields to support herself and her mother-in-law. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man's name with whom I wrought to day is Boaz. . The Book of Ruth The Book of Ruth’s author is never mentioned but it was not written by Ruth. God is concerned about all people regardless of race, nationality, or status. would ye stay for them from having husbands? It is an important link in the chain of Scripture that begins with Genesis and goes right down to that stable in Bethlehem and to the Cross, to the … 17 So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley. Never miss a post! The Book shows that God's love is open to both Christian and Gentile, as he blessed the Moabite woman who In our following … 10 And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich. How do we go about interpreting a historical book, a book that is narrative? Ruth chose to be kind and loyal to her mother-in-law and to commit to her God—the true God. 16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; This summary of the book of Ruth provides information about the title, author(s), date of writing, chronology, theme, theology, outline, a brief overview, and the chapters of the Book of Ruth. 4: Boaz accepts and marries Ruth; they become the ancestors of David and Jesus Christ. Her choice to do the right thing, helping and supporting Naomi instead of just pleasing herself, brought God’s blessings to her. And they sat down. 4 And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years. Dr. W. A. Criswell. Two key concepts in the book of Ruth can shed light on the themes of the book. The custom of doing this is already mentioned in the Talmudic tractate of Soferim (14:16), and the fact that the first chapter of the Midrash of Ruth deals with the giving of the Torah is evidence that this custom was already well established … Right now, in the homes of seemingly unimportant people who are living and dying with little public awareness, God may be fully engaged in shaping the future history of the world. 3 And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons. The book of Ruth starts with the life of Naomi. Romans is doctrinal, Ruth is historical and therefore it presents us with some basic questions. Read more about Ruth and her example of faithfulness in our “Women of Faith” series article about “Ruth.”. The significance of the Book of Ruth are the themes of acceptance, faith, and redemption. Most people read Ruth and tenderly exclaim, aw. In that case, God led Samuel to Ruth’s great-grandson, David, a man after His own heart. 4 And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, The LORD be with you. The book of Ruth is not a statement of doctrine; it is a narrative—a story carried on through the characters and doings of a number of people. Her two sons found wives, Ruth and Orpah, but 10 years later, both sons died as well. 7 Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah. And they answered him, The LORD bless thee. 1 Then went Boaz up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by; unto whom he said, Ho, such a one! This book is also an essential prerequisite to understanding the Book of Revelation. Orpah finally decided to stay, but Ruth was determined to go with Naomi. a man plucked off his shoe, and gave it to his neighbour: and this was a testimony in Israel. Through all these actions, Boaz exemplified the compassion and love of a redeemer. The Book of Ruth is read in synagogues on Pentecost, the Feast of the Lord known as the Feast of Weeks or Shavuot - שָׁבוּעוֹת - We may at times think that God is only watching the really important people of this world, but the story of Ruth tells us otherwise. He is most impressed with the quality of our character.This marriage was one of the most significant in Jewish history because the great-grandson of Boaz and Ruth was none other than the most famous and loved ruler of Israel, King David (Ruth 4:21-22). lineage of King David and ultimately that of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). It's an intimate family tale of misfortune, crafty use of kinship ties, and ultimately, loyalty. 20 And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. He bought the land from Naomi, married Ruth, and carried on the family name through the birth of their son. After all, it’s a classic tale of boy meets girl, of unexpected love discovered in the most routine of settings. 2 And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehem-Judah. After satisfying some of the technicalities of the ancient laws concerning widows and inheritance, Boaz and Ruth wed. We may at times think that God is only watching the really important people of this world, but the story of Ruth tells us otherwise. Ruth … And it came to pass, when they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and they said, Is this Naomi? 8 Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? The Book of Ruth is one a book of great significance. King James I commissioned a group of Biblical scholars She urged her daughters-in-law to remain in Moab and find husbands from among their own people. And he said, I will redeem it. Ruth, as we shall see, committed her life to helping others; and as a result, she was blessed by God for her faithfulness. 1 Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. See also His life is an illustration for us of the compassion of Jesus, who is our Redeemer (Gal. The German poet Goethe called it “the loveliest complete work on a small scale ever written” (quoted by Leon Morris in Judges and Ruth, p. 242). The fullness of God’s blessings may not come in this life, but the ultimate glory He has in store for us is beyond what we can humanly imagine (1 Corinthians 2:9). 8 Therefore the kinsman said unto Boaz, Buy it for thee. 7 Now this was the manner in former time in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing, for to confirm all things; Ethical Importance 1. 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 2:11-12). 15 And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not: The book of Ruth portrays a perfect example of a true belief in the Creator God in that it propagates inclusion of all, even in the ancient world of the Israelites where separation is made obvious between Israelites and … God looks deep inside all people. The two women arrived in Bethlehem just in time for the early spring harvest. 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