Who Was Ruth in the Bible?
Ruth: A Woman of Moab
Ruth is a central figure in the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament, which details her story of loyalty, faith, and redemption. Living before the establishment of Israel’s monarchy, Ruth was a Moabite woman, a member of a people often in conflict with Israel. Her journey from Moab to Bethlehem, alongside her mother-in-law Naomi, marks a significant narrative of devotion and divine providence.
Ruth’s Background and Early Life
Ruth is first introduced in Ruth 1:4, where she is mentioned as the wife of Mahlon, one of the sons of Elimelech and Naomi. Following the death of her husband and father-in-law, Ruth faced a pivotal decision. Despite Naomi’s urging to return to her own people, Ruth chose to stay with Naomi, demonstrating profound loyalty and commitment. This decision is famously expressed in Ruth 1:16-17, where Ruth declares, “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried.”
Ruth’s Journey to Bethlehem
Ruth’s choice to accompany Naomi back to Bethlehem was a significant act of faith, as she left her homeland and its gods to follow the God of Israel. Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, Ruth’s dedication continued as she took on the role of a gleaner in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi. Her hard work and humility caught the attention of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi’s deceased husband.
Boaz and Ruth: A Story of Redemption
Boaz, recognizing Ruth’s loyalty and character, showed her great kindness. As a kinsman-redeemer, Boaz had the right to marry Ruth and thus preserve the family lineage. Following the guidance of Naomi, Ruth approached Boaz to request his protection and to fulfill his role as redeemer (Ruth 3:9). Boaz, moved by Ruth’s integrity and loyalty, agreed to marry her, ensuring both her and Naomi’s security.
Ruth’s Legacy
Ruth and Boaz’s union was blessed with a son named Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David, placing Ruth in the direct lineage of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). This remarkable inclusion underscores the universality of God’s redemptive plan, showing that His grace extends beyond the boundaries of Israel to embrace all who come to Him in faith.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Loyalty and Faithfulness
Ruth’s story is a powerful lesson in loyalty and faithfulness. Her unwavering commitment to Naomi and her willingness to embrace the God of Israel inspire Christians to remain steadfast in their relationships and faith. Ruth’s actions exemplify the call to love and support family, reflecting the biblical principle found in Proverbs 17:17, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
God’s Providence
Ruth’s narrative also highlights God’s providence. Despite her status as a foreigner and a widow, God provided for Ruth and guided her steps. Her story encourages believers to trust in God’s provision and timing, even in challenging circumstances. Philippians 4:19 reassures us, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Inclusivity
Ruth’s inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ emphasizes God’s inclusive love. Her acceptance into the community of Israel and her pivotal role in the genealogy of Jesus illustrate that God’s love and redemption are available to all, regardless of their background. This reflects the message of Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Divine Faithfulness
Ruth’s life is a testament to God’s faithfulness. Her story shows that God remains faithful to His promises and cares for those who seek Him. Ruth 2:12 captures Boaz’s blessing to Ruth, which resonates with God’s character: “May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.”
Connection to Jesus Christ
Foremother of the Messiah
Ruth’s place in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the interconnectedness of God’s plan for salvation. As an ancestor of David, and thus Jesus, Ruth’s story is part of the grand narrative leading to the birth of the Messiah. This connection emphasizes that Jesus came to fulfill the promises made to Abraham and his descendants, extending God’s covenant blessings to all nations.
Typology of Redemption
The story of Ruth and Boaz serves as a typology of redemption, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ. Just as Boaz acted as Ruth’s kinsman-redeemer, Jesus acts as the redeemer for humanity, offering salvation and restoration. Ephesians 1:7 states, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.”
Conclusion
Ruth, a Moabite woman living before Israel’s monarchy, stands as a remarkable example of faith, loyalty, and divine providence. Her journey from Moab to Bethlehem, her steadfast commitment to Naomi, and her eventual inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ highlight the universal scope of God’s redemptive plan. Ruth’s story teaches modern Christians about the importance of faithfulness, the assurance of God’s providence, and the inclusivity of God’s love. Through Ruth, we see a foreshadowing of the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ, who came to save all who believe, regardless of their background.