The story of Ruth is one of the most inspiring narratives in the Bible. She was a Moabite woman who became an example of faithfulness, love, and redemption. Her name is recorded in the Book of Ruth, one of the books of the Old Testament that highlights her journey and importance in God’s divine plan.
Ruth’s Origin and Her Journey of Faith
Ruth was born in Moab, a region that frequently had conflicts with Israel. The Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham’s nephew, and historically did not have a harmonious relationship with the Israelites. Her story begins when she marries an Israelite, the son of Elimelech and Naomi. However, her husband dies, leaving her widowed in a foreign land.
Faced with uncertainty and the immense difficulty of being a widow without support, Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, her homeland, and advises her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab. For a woman at that time, especially a widow, life without a provider was extremely challenging and marked by social and economic hardships.
While Orpah, the other daughter-in-law, chooses to stay in Moab and pursue a different life, Ruth refuses to abandon Naomi and declares one of the most emotional statements in the Bible: “Where you go, I will go; and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.” (Ruth 1:16). This act of loyalty demonstrates not only her devotion to her mother-in-law but also her commitment to the God of Israel. Ruth chose to leave her homeland, customs, and security to follow a new path based on faith and hope.
Work and Divine Providence
Upon arriving in Bethlehem, Ruth needs to find a way to support herself and Naomi. As a foreign woman and widow, she finds herself in a socially vulnerable position. However, God’s providence had already prepared a way for her restoration.
Ruth decides to work gleaning in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Elimelech. The custom of the time allowed the poor to gather leftover harvests in the fields, a practice called gleaning, established in the Mosaic law (Leviticus 19:9-10). This act of humility and determination demonstrates her diligence and commitment, as gleaning was a task reserved for the most needy and required great physical effort.
Boaz, impressed by her dedication and faithfulness to Naomi, begins to protect and provide for Ruth. He orders his servants to leave extra grain for her and ensures her safety in the field. Moreover, Boaz treats her with kindness and respect, recognizing the value of her decision and her noble character. This care reveals God as the provider, leading Ruth to a promising future and demonstrating that those who are faithful are rewarded.
Marriage to Boaz and Redemption
In Israelite culture, there was the role of the kinsman-redeemer, a close relative who could marry a widow to ensure the continuation of the family lineage. This concept was linked to the duty of levirate marriage, where a deceased man’s relative would marry his widow to preserve the family inheritance (Deuteronomy 25:5-10).
Naomi realizes that Boaz could fulfill this role and instructs Ruth to approach him with respect and dignity. Following her mother-in-law’s instructions, Ruth presents herself to Boaz at night, lying at his feet as a symbolic gesture of humility and a request for protection.
Boaz, recognizing Ruth’s virtue and loyalty, accepts the role of redeemer. He follows the necessary rites, respecting the customs of the time, and takes her as his wife. This marriage not only ensures the survival of Ruth and Naomi but also places Ruth in the Messianic lineage, as her son Obed became the grandfather of King David, an ancestor of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). Thus, Ruth’s story highlights divine redemption and the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s plan.
The Spiritual Significance of Ruth’s Story
- Faithfulness to God and Others – Ruth’s decision to follow Naomi demonstrates unconditional love and true faith. Her story teaches the importance of loyalty and commitment.
- God’s Providence – Even in adversity, God leads Ruth to a future of blessings. Her encounter with Boaz was not a coincidence but evidence of divine sovereignty.
- The Role of Redemption – The marriage of Ruth and Boaz symbolizes Christ’s redemptive act for His church. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, Christ redeems humanity.
- The Inclusion of Gentiles in God’s Plan – As a Moabite, Ruth represents the expansion of God’s grace beyond Israel. Her story testifies to the inclusion of all nations in God’s promise.
- The Impact of Obedience – Her submission and faithfulness resulted in a lineage of kings and the coming of the Savior. This shows that God honors those who obey and trust in His plan.
Ruth’s Lesson for Christians
Ruth’s story teaches that God honors those who choose to follow Him with a sincere heart. Even in the face of difficulties and uncertainties, those who place their faith in the Lord find sustenance and purpose.
Like Ruth, Christians are called to trust in God even in times of adversity, knowing that He provides the best for those who remain faithful. Her story continues to be an example of courage, faith, and obedience for all who seek to live according to divine principles.
Biblical References
The Bible mentions Ruth in several passages that reinforce her role in the history of salvation:
Ruth 1:16-17 – Ruth’s declaration of loyalty to Naomi.
Ruth 2:3-12 – Ruth working in the field and being blessed by Boaz.
Ruth 3:9-11 – Ruth’s request for Boaz to fulfill his role as redeemer.
Ruth 4:13-17 – The marriage of Ruth and Boaz and the birth of Obed.
Matthew 1:5 – Ruth in the genealogy of Jesus Christ.
Questions and Answers: Who Was Ruth in the Bible?
- Who was Ruth in the Bible?
Ruth was a Moabite woman who, after becoming a widow, followed her mother-in-law Naomi to Bethlehem and married Boaz, becoming an ancestor of King David and Jesus Christ. - Why is Ruth’s story important?
It demonstrates loyalty to God, the importance of redemption, and how the Gentiles were included in the divine plan. - What does Ruth’s declaration in Ruth 1:16 mean?
It shows her decision to follow the God of Israel and remain loyal to her mother-in-law, demonstrating love and commitment. - What role did Boaz play in Ruth’s life?
Boaz was her redeemer, providing protection, sustenance, and including her in the messianic lineage. - What can we learn from Ruth?
That God rewards loyalty and obedience, guiding His children toward a greater purpose. - What is the spiritual significance of the marriage of Ruth and Boaz?
It represents redemption and Christ’s care for His church. - Why was Ruth considered a foreigner?
She was a Moabite, a people historically at odds with Israel, but was accepted into God’s community because of her faith. - How is Ruth connected to Jesus Christ?
She was the great-grandmother of King David, from whose lineage came Jesus, the Messiah.
André Limeira is a Bible scholar, known for his ability to unravel and convey the complexities of the Scriptures in a clear and applicable way. His commitment to spiritual education and his passion for biblical teaching serve as sources of inspiration for everyone interested in deepening their faith and knowledge.
