Introduction to the Book of Ruth

The Hebrew name for the Book of Ruth is “Megilat Ruth” (מגילת רות / Megilath Ruth). In the Hebrew Bible, the Book of Judges and the Book of Ruth are traditionally considered one book. The Book of Ruth recounts the story of Ruth, a Moabite widow, who, during the time of the Judges, returned in hardship with her mother-in-law Naomi to Bethlehem in Judah, and later married Boaz. Their descendants include King David, Israel’s most beloved king, and Christ the Messiah, who brought salvation to all humanity. The names of Boaz and Ruth are listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). The author of this book is unknown, though Jewish tradition attributes it to Samuel.

During the chaotic period of the Judges, when “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25), the Book of Ruth emerges like a fresh, romantic pastoral poem. In the grand epic spanning from Genesis to Judges, Ruth appears like a small, unexpected wave. Yet, through this beautiful little wave, God reveals what the correct relationship between humanity and God should be, amidst the people’s confusion, darkness, and failures: Naomi trusts in God’s steadfast love, Ruth leaves her homeland to take refuge in God, and Boaz diligently obeys God’s law. While Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz are the apparent protagonists, the true protagonist is God Himself.

He reigns over all creation, blessing all who take refuge in Him, both Israelites and Gentiles. Although God’s people generally failed during the period of the Judges, God preserved a group of people in the small town of Bethlehem, exemplified by Boaz, who loved God and loved others. He raised up Ruth, a foreigner who took refuge in Him, turning sorrow into joy and bringing life from death. In a time when “there was no king in Israel,” God prepared King David to end the cycle of failure for His people and allows us to eagerly anticipate the King of kings, Christ the Messiah, who will redeem all humanity.

The Book of Ruth begins with famine, separation, and death, and ends with abundance, restoration, and hope. This is because our God is faithful, loving, and almighty. No matter how much humanity fails or rebels, if it is a plan promised by God, He will surely bring it to fruition; if they are a people called by God, He will personally restore them!