Who is Ruth in the Bible?
Ruth, a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, is celebrated for her loyalty, courage, and compassion. Her story is recounted in the Book of Ruth, which is part of the Old Testament. Born as a Moabite woman, Ruth’s life intertwines with the lineage of King David and, ultimately, King Jesus Christ through her marriage to Boaz, a relative of Naomi, her Israelite mother-in-law. Her narrative stands as a testament to the power of love, loyalty, and the promise of God’s redemption.
Ruth’s story begins with the tragic loss of her husband, Mahlon, and her two sons, leaving her as a widow in a foreign land. In the face of despair, Ruth demonstrates remarkable resilience and dedication by choosing to stay with Naomi, her mother-in-law, and to adhere to the customs of the Israelites. This decision marks the beginning of her transformation from a Moabite to an Israelite, symbolizing her commitment to Naomi and her new faith.
Naomi’s Plan and Ruth’s Loyalty
After a period of time, Naomi encourages Ruth to seek a husband among the local Israelite men, hoping that she might find a new life for herself. Despite the potential dangers and uncertainties, Ruth, with unwavering loyalty, responds, “Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me” (Ruth 1:16-17). Her words reflect her deep love and commitment to Naomi, as well as her desire to follow God’s will.
The Meeting with Boaz
Ruth’s loyalty does not go unnoticed. Through a series of events, she meets Boaz, a relative of Naomi and a wealthy landowner. Boaz is impressed by Ruth’s character and her willingness to work in the fields, as well as her loyalty to Naomi. He takes an interest in her and decides to help her and Naomi by ensuring that they receive the portion of the harvest that was traditionally given to a kinsman-redeemer.
The Kinsman-Redeemer and the Righteousness of God
The concept of a kinsman-redeemer is central to Ruth’s story. In biblical law, a kinsman-redeemer was responsible for buying back a relative’s property or providing for a relative’s widow. Boaz, as a relative of Naomi, is the kinsman-redeemer in this situation. He has the opportunity to marry Ruth and take on the responsibilities of providing for her and Naomi.
The Final Union and the Birth of King David
Ruth and Boaz are married, and they have a son named Obed. This union is significant because Obed is the grandfather of King David, a central figure in the history of Israel. Ruth’s loyalty and faithfulness have led to her becoming part of the lineage of the greatest king in Israel’s history. Furthermore, her story highlights the righteousness of God, who uses the lives of ordinary people to fulfill His divine plan.
Legacy and Reflection
Ruth’s story serves as an inspiration to many, particularly for her unwavering loyalty and faith in God. Her journey from a Moabite woman to a part of the lineage of King David and Jesus Christ demonstrates the transformative power of love, loyalty, and God’s redemptive plan. The Book of Ruth is often seen as a story of hope and redemption, a reminder that God’s promises are true and that He works through the lives of ordinary people to accomplish His purposes.
