Ruth

Definition

Ruth is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Ruth, which is part of the Ketuvim section of the Tanakh. She is celebrated for her loyalty, love, and dedication, particularly towards her mother-in-law Naomi. Ruth's story highlights themes of faithfulness, redemption, and inclusion in the Israelite community, illustrating the significance of personal relationships and moral integrity in the context of Jewish law and tradition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Book of Ruth is read during Shavuot, a Jewish harvest festival, emphasizing themes of harvest and renewal.
2. Ruth is one of the few women in the Bible with a book named after her, highlighting her significant role in biblical history.
3. Ruth's declaration to Naomi, 'Where you go I will go; where you stay I will stay,' demonstrates her deep loyalty and commitment to family.
4. The story illustrates the importance of kindness and generosity within the framework of Israelite society, as shown through Boaz's actions towards Ruth.
5. Ruth is an ancestor of King David, making her lineage significant in the biblical narrative leading up to the New Testament.

Review Questions

• How does Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi reflect broader themes present in the Torah and Tanakh?
  • Ruth's loyalty to Naomi embodies key themes such as familial duty and commitment found throughout the Torah and Tanakh. Her famous words to Naomi highlight the importance of relationships and selflessness. This loyalty not only defines Ruth's character but also sets an example of fidelity that resonates with similar narratives within the Hebrew Scriptures, showcasing how personal integrity can lead to divine favor and inclusion in the community.
• Discuss the role of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth’s story and its implications within Jewish law.
  • Boaz acts as a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth, which is a critical concept in Jewish law where a relative has the duty to rescue or marry a widow to maintain family lineage. His willingness to take on this role reflects his character as a man of integrity and generosity. The implications extend beyond personal relationships; they highlight the communal responsibilities within Israelite society, emphasizing themes of redemption, social justice, and adherence to God's laws.
• Evaluate how Ruth’s inclusion in Israelite society challenges or reinforces social norms depicted in other parts of the Tanakh.
  • Ruth’s inclusion as a Moabite woman into Israelite society presents a complex interaction with social norms depicted elsewhere in the Tanakh. While many texts emphasize purity and separation from foreign nations, Ruth's story illustrates a radical acceptance based on individual virtue rather than ethnic background. This challenge to social norms reinforces the idea that faithfulness and moral integrity can transcend cultural barriers. Ultimately, her role as an ancestor of David signals a broader message about God's grace extending beyond traditional boundaries.

Related terms

Boaz: A wealthy relative of Naomi who marries Ruth, playing a crucial role in her redemption and exemplifying the concept of levirate marriage.

Kinsman-Redeemer: A male relative who has the responsibility to redeem a family member in need, including marrying a widow to preserve family lineage, as seen in Ruth's relationship with Boaz.

Naomi: Ruth's mother-in-law, whose experiences of loss and bitterness are transformed through Ruth's loyalty and commitment, shaping the narrative of their shared journey.