Five women are mentioned in the royal genealogy of the Lord Jesus in Matthew 1. Four of these women are specifically named, three are Gentiles (Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth), two likely were alive at the same time (Rahab and Ruth), and one has an Old Testament book bearing her name.
Ruth’s mention in…
Introduction and Context Read More »
Sojourning in Moab
In the previous article, we saw how the opening phrase, “Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled,” powerfully sets the scene for the book of Ruth. The horrific events that happened in Bethlehem in the book of Judges stand as a striking contrast to examples of …
Naomi’s Decision to Return
Naomi is a truly remarkable woman in the book of Ruth. Without her faithful response to trial, she would not have returned to Bethlehem. Without her infectious character, her daughters-in-law would not have found the thought of leaving her so difficult. Without her lo…
Ruth’s Confession of Faith
In examining Ruth’s delightful confession of faith in Ruth 1:16-17, we will see a huge contrast between Ruth and Orpah, one which is somewhat reflected in the meanings of their names.
Ruth
Ruth means ‘friendship’ and her name appears 12 times in the book, …
Arrival in Bethlehem
After Ruth’s emphatic pledge to accompany Naomi, and her exemplary desire to commit to the Hope of Israel, the two women complete the rest of the journey to Bethlehem. Their likely route would involve taking the King’s Highway to the river Jordan, passing westwards throug…
Gleaning in Boaz’s Field
Chapter 2:1 introduces us to Boaz: “And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband’s, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz”. It is interesting that the record introduces us to Boaz at this point, as it is before Boaz has met Ruth,…
“It hath fully been shewed me”
Having been informed of Ruth’s impressive application to gleaning, Boaz finally meets her in Ruth 2:8. The fact he addresses her as “my daughter” indicates a generational age gap; Naomi also calls Ruth “my daughter” in Ruth 2:2. It is therefore likely …
Naomi’s Plan for Redemption
Things are now turning positive for Ruth. It required faith and commitment to leave Moab, dedicating herself to Israel’s hope, and labouring to glean barley in strenuous conditions, but ultimately, this wonderful faith was rewarded as Boaz’s grace extended toward…
The Virtuous Woman
After Ruth had uncovered Boaz’s feet and laid down there, something happened at midnight to startle him, awaking him from sleep. It was at this point he noticed Ruth lying at his feet. Ruth responded to him by saying: “I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt ov…
