# Ruth ## Name(s) and Meaning - **Names:** Ruth. - **Meaning:** The name "Ruth" is derived from the Hebrew word רְעוּת (Re'ut), meaning "friend" or "companion." - **Significance:** Her name reflects her loyal and steadfast nature, particularly in her relationship with her mother-in-law, Naomi. ## Lifespan/Timeline - **Lifespan:** The exact dates of Ruth's life are not specified in the Bible, but she lived during the time of the judges, which is estimated to be between the 12th and 11th centuries BC. - **Historical Context:** The story of Ruth occurs during a time of social and economic instability in Israel, known as the period of the Judges, characterized by cyclical patterns of sin, judgment, and deliverance. ## Roles/Titles - **Roles:** Moabitess, widow, loyal daughter-in-law, ancestor of King David, and part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ. - **Significance:** Ruth is significant for her devotion to Naomi and her acceptance of the God of Israel. Her story is one of redemption and inclusion, showing how a foreigner became part of the lineage of David and ultimately Jesus Christ. ## Tags - `#biblical-figures` - `#roles-widow` - `#roles-ancestor` - `#timelines-judges` ## Cross-References - Ruth is introduced in the Book of [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]. - Her marriage to Boaz and role in the lineage of David is detailed in [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]. - Mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the New Testament in [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]. ## Key References: Ruth ### Primary Passages - **Ruth's Loyalty to Naomi:** [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]—Ruth pledges her loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and decides to leave Moab to join her in Bethlehem. - **Ruth Gleans in Boaz’s Field:** [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]]—Ruth meets Boaz while gleaning in his field, a key moment that leads to her future redemption. - **Ruth’s Proposal to Boaz:** [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 3|Ruth Chapter 3]]—Ruth follows Naomi's guidance and proposes marriage to Boaz at the threshing floor. - **Boaz Redeems Ruth:** [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]—Boaz redeems Ruth, marrying her and securing her place in the lineage of David. ### Mentions in Genealogies - **Genealogy of David and Christ:** Ruth is mentioned in [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]], highlighting her role as the great-grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Jesus Christ. This inclusion underscores the significance of her faith and the providence of God in the messianic lineage. ### New Testament References - **Included in the Genealogy of Christ:** Ruth’s mention in [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]] emphasizes her importance as a Gentile ancestor in the genealogy of Jesus, illustrating the inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan through Christ. ### Prophetic/Typological References - **Foreshadowing of Redemption:** Ruth’s story is a typological precursor to the redemption available through Christ. Just as Boaz redeems Ruth, Christ redeems those who are spiritually destitute ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 1|Ephesians Chapter 1]]). - **Symbol of Faith and Gentile Inclusion:** Ruth represents the inclusion of Gentiles into God’s covenant people, a theme that echoes through the New Testament in the spread of the Gospel to all nations ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 28|Matthew Chapter 28]]). ### Tags - `#key-references` - `#genealogy` - `#new-testament` - `#prophecy` - `#redemption` - `#gentile-inclusion` - `#ruth` ## Relationships: Ruth ### Family Relationships - **Parents:** Not mentioned in scripture. - **Spouse:** Mahlon (first husband, deceased) ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]); Boaz (second husband, kinsman-redeemer) ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]). - **Mother-in-law:** Naomi, significant relationship and loyalty displayed ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]]). - **Children:** Obed (son with Boaz) ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]). - **Descendants:** Ancestor of King David and Jesus Christ ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Allies/Friends - **Naomi:** Mother-in-law and close companion; Ruth's loyalty and care for Naomi are central to her story ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]]). - **Boaz:** Kinsman-redeemer who showed kindness and protection to Ruth; later became her husband ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 3|Ruth Chapter 3]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]). ### Adversaries/Conflicts - **Cultural and Personal Challenges:** As a Moabite widow in Israel, Ruth faced potential prejudice and hardship, yet she remained steadfast and was blessed ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]]). ### Spiritual Relationships - **God:** Ruth's declaration of faith, "Your people will be my people and your God my God," signifies her spiritual conversion and commitment ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). Her life reflects a journey of faith and God's providence. ### Tags - `#relationships` - `#family` - `#allies` - `#conflicts` - `#relationship-with-God` - `#ruth` - `#loyalty` - `#kinsman-redeemer` ## Significance: Ruth ### Theological Importance - **Redeeming Love:** Ruth’s story is a powerful testament to God's redeeming love and faithfulness. Her unwavering loyalty and faith in God, despite personal loss, exemplify the themes of grace and redemption ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]]). - **Gentile Inclusion:** Ruth, a Moabite, highlights the inclusivity of God's covenant, showing that faith, not ethnicity, is the key to being part of God's people ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Historical Context - **Lineage of David:** Ruth’s marriage to Boaz and her place in the genealogy of David situates her as a crucial link in the lineage leading to Jesus Christ, emphasizing God’s providence in salvation history ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). - **Cultural Dynamics:** Her story occurs during the time of the judges, a period marked by moral and social chaos, yet her life is a narrative of faithfulness and divine intervention amidst such times ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). ### Symbolism and Typology - **Kinsman-Redeemer:** Boaz’s role as Ruth’s kinsman-redeemer is a typological foreshadowing of Christ, who redeems humanity, making Ruth’s story a precursor to the ultimate redemption through Jesus ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 3|Ruth Chapter 3]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]). - **Harvest and Provision:** The setting of Bethlehem and the barley harvest symbolizes God’s provision and the future heavenly harvest accomplished through Christ ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - `#significance` - `#theological-themes` - `#redemption` - `#biblical-history` - `#typology` - `#faith` - `#inclusivity` - `#lineage-of-Christ` ## Character Study: Ruth ### Strengths and Virtues - **Loyalty:** Ruth's steadfast loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi is a defining characteristic. She chose to stay with Naomi and embrace her people and God ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). - **Diligence:** Ruth worked diligently to provide for Naomi and herself by gleaning in the fields of Boaz ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]]). - **Faithfulness:** Her decision to follow the God of Israel demonstrated a profound faith and conversion ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). ### Weaknesses and Failures - The biblical narrative does not specifically highlight any weaknesses or failures in Ruth's character. Her story is more focused on her virtues and the blessings that followed her faithful actions. ### Lessons Learned - **Commitment and Loyalty:** Ruth's devotion to Naomi exemplifies the power of loyal relationships and the blessings that stem from them ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). - **God's Providence:** The story of Ruth illustrates God's providence and care, as seen in her marrying Boaz, which leads to her becoming an ancestor of David and, ultimately, Jesus ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). - **Faith Rewarded:** Her faith and commitment to God, despite being a Moabite, led to her inclusion in the lineage of Christ, showing that God's grace extends beyond ethnic boundaries ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Tags - `#strengths-loyalty` - `#strengths-diligence` - `#strengths-faithfulness` - `#lessons-commitment` - `#lessons-providence` - `#lessons-faithrewarded` ## Themes and Symbolism: Ruth ### Key Themes - **Loyalty and Devotion:** Ruth's unwavering commitment to Naomi exemplifies steadfast loyalty, even in the face of personal loss and uncertainty ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). - **Providence and Redemption:** The narrative of Ruth highlights God’s providential care and the theme of redemption through Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer, reflecting God’s redemptive plan ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]). - **Inclusivity in God’s Plan:** Ruth, a Moabite, becomes part of the lineage of David and ultimately Jesus, illustrating the inclusivity of God’s covenant promises ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Symbolic Elements - **Kinsman-Redeemer (Boaz):** Symbolizes God’s redemption and faithfulness, as Boaz acts as Ruth’s redeemer, pointing to the greater redemption through Christ ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 3|Ruth Chapter 3]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]). - **Harvest Time:** Represents God’s provision and blessing, as Ruth gathers during the barley harvest, leading to her meeting Boaz ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Christ as the Redeemer:** Boaz’s role as a kinsman-redeemer foreshadows Christ’s redemptive work, bringing outsiders into God’s family ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 2|Ephesians Chapter 2]]). - **Lineage of Christ:** Ruth’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus highlights God’s sovereign plan to bring forth the Messiah through unexpected means ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Tags - `#themes` - `#symbolism` - `#typology` - `#foreshadowing` - `#loyalty` - `#redemption` - `#providence` - `#inclusivity` ## Connections: Ruth ### Parallel Figures - **Esther:** Like Ruth, Esther is a woman whose loyalty and courage are pivotal in the preservation of her people ([[Esther/Esther Chapter 4|Esther Chapter 4]]). - **Tamar:** Both Ruth and Tamar are widows who play crucial roles in continuing the lineage of Judah, leading to the line of David ([[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 38|Genesis Chapter 38]]). - **Rahab:** Ruth, like Rahab, is a foreign woman who becomes an ancestor of Christ through her faith and integration into Israel ([[Joshua/Joshua Chapter 2|Joshua Chapter 2]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Christ:** Ruth's loyalty and redemption through Boaz foreshadow the redemptive work of Christ for all people, bringing outsiders into the covenant ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Galatians/Galatians Chapter 3|Galatians Chapter 3]]). - **The Church:** Ruth's inclusion into the people of God prefigures the inclusion of Gentiles into the Church ([[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 2|Ephesians Chapter 2]]). ### Cultural/Historical Context - **Judges Era:** Ruth’s story occurs during the time of the Judges, a period marked by social and religious turmoil ([[Judges/Judges Chapter 21|Judges Chapter 21]]). - **Levirate Marriage:** Her marriage to Boaz reflects the practice of levirate marriage, preserving family lines ([[Deuteronomy/Deuteronomy Chapter 25|Deuteronomy Chapter 25]]). - **Moabite Ancestry:** Ruth’s Moabite background highlights the theme of God’s grace extending beyond ethnic Israel ([[Deuteronomy/Deuteronomy Chapter 23|Deuteronomy Chapter 23]]). ### Tags - `#parallel-figures` - `#foreshadowing-Christ` - `#historical-context` - `#redemption` - `#inclusion-of-gentiles` - `#courage-and-loyalty` ## Legacy: Ruth ### Impact on Israel/Church - **Lineage of David and Jesus:** Ruth, a Moabite woman, became the great-grandmother of King David, placing her in the direct lineage of Jesus Christ ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). Her inclusion illustrates God's plan of redemption extending beyond Israel to the Gentiles. - **Model of Loyalty and Faithfulness:** Ruth's dedication to Naomi and her God exemplifies the covenant loyalty expected of God's people ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). ### Mentions in Later Scripture - **Genealogy of Jesus:** Ruth is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew, highlighting her role in salvation history ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Spiritual Lessons - **Inclusivity in God’s Family:** Ruth’s story teaches the inclusion of Gentiles into God’s covenant people, foreshadowing the New Testament message that salvation is for all who believe ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 2|Ruth Chapter 2]], [[Romans/Romans Chapter 11|Romans Chapter 11]]). - **Faith and Providence:** Ruth's life demonstrates the providential care of God and the unfolding of His plans through faithful individuals ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]). ### Modern Applications - Ruth’s legacy encourages believers to embrace others regardless of their background, emphasizing faithfulness and devotion as key virtues. - Her story is often used to illustrate themes of redemption and the breaking down of barriers between people in modern sermons and Bible studies. ### Tags - `#legacy` - `#impact-on-israel` - `#church-history` - `#spiritual-lessons` - `#inclusivity` - `#genealogy-of-jesus` - `#faithfulness` - `#redemption` ## Geography: Ruth ### Significant Locations - **Moab:** The land where Ruth was born and lived with her first husband, Mahlon, before moving to Bethlehem with Naomi. Moab is significant because it was initially a place of refuge for Elimelech and his family during a famine in Judah ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). - **Bethlehem:** The town in Judah where Ruth moved with Naomi. It is here that Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her faithfulness to God are highlighted as she gleans in the fields of Boaz and eventually marries him ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]]). ### Travel and Movement - **Journey from Moab to Bethlehem:** Ruth traveled with Naomi from Moab to Bethlehem, demonstrating her commitment and loyalty to Naomi and to the God of Israel ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1|Ruth Chapter 1]]). This journey marks a significant transition in Ruth’s life, leading her from a place of loss to a place of redemption and blessing. ### Historical/Spiritual Context - **Moab’s Significance:** Moabites were often seen as outsiders to the Israelites, yet Ruth's story exemplifies God's inclusive love and the breaking of ethnic barriers, leading her into the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4|Ruth Chapter 4]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). - **Bethlehem’s Role:** Known as the "House of Bread," Bethlehem is not only where Ruth finds physical sustenance but also spiritual and familial redemption. It foreshadows its future significance as the birthplace of Jesus, the Bread of Life ([[Micah/Micah Chapter 5|Micah Chapter 5]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 2|Matthew Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - `#geography` - `#locations-moab` - `#locations-bethlehem` - `#travel` - `#redemption` - `#lineage-of-david` - `#ruth` ## Additional Resources: Ruth ### Cross-Referenced Scripture - **The Lineage of David:** Ruth's significant role as the great-grandmother of King David ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4 Verse 22|Ruth 4:22]], [[1 Samuel/1 Samuel Chapter 17 Verse 12|1 Samuel 17:12]]). - **The Genealogy of Jesus Christ:** Ruth is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her importance in salvation history ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1 Verse 5|Matthew 1:5]]). - **The Kinsman-Redeemer Principle:** Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer is a key theme, reflecting redemption imagery prominent throughout scripture ([[Leviticus/Leviticus Chapter 25 Verses 25-55|Leviticus 25:25-55]], [[Deuteronomy/Deuteronomy Chapter 25 Verses 5-10|Deuteronomy 25:5-10]]). ### Genealogical References - **Lineage Connection to David and Jesus:** Ruth's marriage to Boaz integrates her into the lineage leading to David, and ultimately, Jesus ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4 Verses 13-22|Ruth 4:13-22]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1 Verses 1-16|Matthew 1:1-16]]). ### Maps and Geographic References - **Journey from Moab to Bethlehem:** Ruth's migration from Moab back to Bethlehem with Naomi can be mapped to understand the geographical and cultural transition ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1 Verses 1-22|Ruth 1:1-22]]). ### Recommended Bible Study Passages - **Ruth's Loyalty and Faith:** A focus on Ruth's devotion and faithfulness to Naomi and God ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 1 Verses 16-17|Ruth 1:16-17]]). - **Boaz's Redemption Role:** Study of Boaz’s actions as redeemer, providing insights into Jesus' redemptive work ([[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 3 Verses 9-13|Ruth 3:9-13]], [[Ruth/Ruth Chapter 4 Verses 9-10|Ruth 4:9-10]]). ### Tags - `#additional-resources` - `#cross-references` - `#genealogy` - `#maps` - `#redemption` - `#loyalty` - `#faith`