The book of Ruth tells of a young Moabite widow who, out of love for her widowed Israelite mother-in-law, abandoned her own culture, declaring, “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (1:16). Though she was destitute and needing to rely on the kindness of others, Ruth’s disposition and character captured the attention of Boaz, a close relative of her deceased husband. Boaz fulfilled the role of kinsman-redeemer and took Ruth as his wife. Ruth serves as a wonderful example of God’s providential care of his people, and of his willingness to accept Gentiles who seek him. Ruth was an ancestor of Christ. The author is unknown, but the genealogy at the end suggests that it was written during or after the time of David. (Ruth, 2001. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version, Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.)
Ruth 1.1-5; Story; Naomi Widowed
Ruth 1.6-18; Story; Ruth’s Loyalty to Naomi
Ruth 1.19-22; Story; Naomi and Ruth Return
Ruth 2.1-23; Story; Ruth Meets Boaz
Ruth 3.1-18; Story; Ruth and Boaz at the Threshing Floor
Ruth 4.1-12; Story; Boaz Redeems Ruth
Ruth 4.13-17; Story; Ruth and Boaz Marry
Ruth 4.18-22; Story; The Genealogy of David