Commentary on the Book of Ruth

By Claudius Brown

The Book of Ruth is a biblical book found in the Old Testament. It is named after its central character, Ruth, a Moabite woman who becomes an ancestor of King David. The book primarily deals with themes of loyalty, kindness, faithfulness, and the providence of God.
The narrative of the Book of Ruth revolves around a widow named Naomi and her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth. After the death of their husbands, Naomi decides to return to her homeland, Bethlehem, and Ruth insists on accompanying her. In Bethlehem, Ruth gleans in the fields owned by Boaz, a relative of Naomi's deceased husband. Boaz shows kindness to Ruth and eventually marries her.
The Book of Ruth emphasizes the bond between Naomi and Ruth, showcasing Ruth's selfless loyalty to her mother-in-law and her willingness to leave her own people and adopt Naomi's faith and culture. Ruth's actions exemplify the virtue of loyalty and demonstrate the importance of treating others with kindness and compassion.
The book also highlights the providence of God in the lives of the characters. Despite the hardships faced by Naomi and Ruth, their story ultimately leads to Ruth's marriage to Boaz and the restoration of Naomi's family lineage. The concluding chapters of the book trace the genealogy from Ruth and Boaz to King David, emphasizing the significance of Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of Israel's greatest king.
Overall, the Book of Ruth explores themes of loyalty, kindness, redemption, and the way God's providence can work through the actions and choices of ordinary people. It is a story of hope, love, and the rewards that come from living in accordance with virtuous principles.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Claudius Brown
• Release date: Jun 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223876748

Claudius Brown

This book is about me and the struggles I go through to survive in this world. I hope that those who read my book will be encouraged to not quit on life due to the struggles they are going through.

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Introduction

The Book of Ruth is a biblical book found in the Old Testament. It is named after its central character, Ruth, a Moabite woman who becomes an ancestor of King David. The book primarily deals with themes of loyalty, kindness, faithfulness, and the providence of God.

The narrative of the Book of Ruth revolves around a widow named Naomi and her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth. After the death of their husbands, Naomi decides to return to her homeland, Bethlehem, and Ruth insists on accompanying her. In Bethlehem, Ruth gleans in the fields owned by Boaz, a relative of Naomi's deceased husband. Boaz shows kindness to Ruth and eventually marries her.

The Book of Ruth emphasizes the bond between Naomi and Ruth, showcasing Ruth's selfless loyalty to her mother-in-law and her willingness to leave her own people and adopt Naomi's faith and culture. Ruth's actions exemplify the virtue of loyalty and demonstrate the importance of treating others with kindness and compassion.

The book also highlights the providence of God in the lives of the characters. Despite the hardships faced by Naomi and Ruth, their story ultimately leads to Ruth's marriage to Boaz and the restoration of Naomi's family lineage. The concluding chapters of the book trace the genealogy from Ruth and Boaz to King David, emphasizing the significance of Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of Israel's greatest king.

Overall, the Book of Ruth explores themes of loyalty, kindness, redemption, and the way God's providence can work through the actions and choices of ordinary people. It is a story of hope, love, and the rewards that come from living in accordance with virtuous principles.

Chapter 1

Expanding Ruth 1:1

Now, let us delve deeper into the narrative of Ruth, beginning with Ruth 1:1. This verse sets the stage for the story and provides crucial context for the events that unfold. It takes us back to a time when the judges governed the land, a period characterized by sporadic leadership and divine guidance in Israel's history.

In these tumultuous days, a devastating famine swept across the land, casting a shadow of despair and scarcity over the people. Food became scarce, and survival became an arduous task for many families. It was during this time that we encounter a certain man from Bethlehem in Judah, whose name was Elimelech.

Bethlehem, a town with a rich history and significance, found itself grappling with the effects of the famine. Elimelech, faced with the daunting challenge of providing for his family, made a difficult decision. He resolved to leave his homeland, the land of promise, and seek refuge in the neighboring land of Moab.

Accompanied by his beloved wife, Naomi, and their two sons, Mahlon and Kilion, Elimelech embarked on a journey to Moab in search of sustenance and a better life. It was a journey of uncertainty, as leaving behind one's ancestral land was not a decision to be taken lightly. Yet, the family's desperation for survival compelled them to take this path.

Moab, situated east of the Dead Sea, was a land inhabited by a different people with their own customs and traditions. It was a foreign land to Elimelech and his family, one that would test their faith, resilience, and adaptability.

Arriving in Moab, the family of Elimelech settled down in this unfamiliar territory, hoping to find solace and provision in the midst of their hardship. They faced the challenges of integrating into a new society, learning the Moabite language, and adapting to their cultural practices.

Expanding on Ruth'

The narrative of Ruth 1:2 introduces us to a family living in Bethlehem in Judah during a time of hardship and famine. The verse tells us the names of each family member, beginning with the patriarch, Elimelech. Elimelech's name carries significant meaning as it translates to My God is King, reflecting his devotion and faith in God. As the head of the household, Elimelech is responsible for leading his family through the challenging circumstances they are about to face.

Next, we are introduced to Elimelech's wife, Naomi. Naomi's name holds deep significance as it means pleasant or delightful. Her name is a reflection of her gentle and amiable nature, highlighting her role as a loving and supportive wife and mother. Naomi's presence within the family unit brings warmth and comfort amidst the hardships they encounter.

Elimelech and Naomi have two sons, Mahlon and Chilion, whose names are mentioned in the verse as well. Mahlon's name signifies sickly or weak, while Chilion's name conveys the meaning of wasting away or pining. The naming of the sons carries a sense of foreboding, suggesting vulnerability and fragility. These names foreshadow the trials that lie ahead for the family.

The family, identified as Ephrathites, belongs to the region of Bethlehem in Judah. Bethlehem, which translates to house of bread, carries great significance throughout biblical history. It is the birthplace of King David, the city where Jesus Christ would later be born, and a place often associated with divine providence. The Ephrathites' connection to Bethlehem emphasizes their roots and heritage within a community chosen by God.

Driven by the desperate circumstances caused by the famine, Elimelech makes the decision to move his family to the land of Moab. Moab, located east of the Dead Sea, was a neighboring territory known for its own struggles and conflicts. While the decision to relocate to Moab might have seemed practical at the time, it carried spiritual and cultural implications for Elimelech and his family.

Upon arriving in Moab, the family settles there and establishes a temporary home. Their decision to remain in Moab raises questions about their adherence to their faith and their integration into a foreign land. The cultural differences and the idolatrous practices of the Moabites present challenges to the family's commitment to their Hebrew heritage.

The move to Moab not only signifies a geographical shift but also marks a turning point in the family's destiny. It sets the stage for a series of events that will shape the narrative of the Book of Ruth and reveal God's providence and faithfulness. The family's journey into Moab initiates a period of testing, growth, and ultimately, redemption.

In the subsequent verses, we will witness the unfolding of Elimelech's and Naomi's story as they navigate the unfamiliar terrain of Moab. Their experiences will touch upon themes of loss, loyalty, and love, ultimately leading to unexpected blessings. Through their struggles and triumphs, we will discover the profound wisdom and grace of God, who works behind the scenes to fulfill His divine purposes.

The verse Ruth 1:2 serves as a crucial introduction, setting the stage for the events to come. It provides us with essential details about the main characters and their circumstances. Elimelech, Naomi, Mahlon, and Chilion become familiar figures to whom we can relate, inviting us to join them on their transformative journey.

As we delve deeper into the Book of Ruth, we will witness the intricate interplay between human agency and divine providence.

The story begins during a time of famine in the land of Israel. Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons leave Bethlehem and migrate to Moab in search of sustenance. Here, we see human agency at work as they make the decision to move and seek better circumstances for their family. However, their choice to settle in Moab, a land associated with idolatry and foreign customs, also reflects a departure from their faith and God's intended plan for His people.

Tragedy strikes when Elimelech passes away, leaving Naomi a widow with her two sons, Mahlon and Kilion. Her sons, in due course, marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth, respectively. But then, another wave of sorrow crashes upon Naomi as she loses both her sons, leaving her completely bereft. At this point, Naomi decides to return to her homeland, Bethlehem, upon hearing that the Lord has visited His people and blessed them with food.

Now we witness the turning point of the story, as Ruth displays an extraordinary act of loyalty and devotion towards Naomi. She chooses to accompany her mother-in-law to Bethlehem, even though it means leaving behind her own people, culture, and gods. Ruth's famous declaration, Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God, showcases her unwavering commitment to Naomi and her willingness to embrace the faith of the Israelites.

Once they arrive in Bethlehem, Ruth takes it upon herself to provide for Naomi by gleaning in the fields owned by Boaz, a close relative of Elimelech. Here we see human agency in Ruth's initiative to work diligently and provide for herself and Naomi. However, divine providence intertwines with her actions, leading Ruth to glean in the field of Boaz, who happens to be a man of great wealth and social standing.

Boaz notices Ruth's dedication and kindness towards Naomi and extends his protection and provision to her. In doing so, he becomes a crucial instrument in God's plan. Eventually, their relationship deepens, and Boaz redeems Ruth by marrying her, thus fulfilling the role of a kinsman-redeemer. This act not only