The Book of Ruth is set during the time of the Judges. It focuses on loyalty, redemption, and God's providential care. Written as a short narrative, Ruth highlights God's hand in the lives of ordinary people, showing how He works through their circumstances to fulfill His greater plan. The story is notable for its depiction of steadfast love, both between individuals and toward God. Ruth, a Moabite woman, becomes an ancestor of King David, making this book a vital part of the Bible's unfolding redemptive history.

PURPOSE: The Book of Ruth demonstrates God's sovereignty, provision, and faithfulness. It highlights how God works through human relationships and seemingly small events to fulfill His larger purposes.

AUTHOR: The author of the book of Ruth is unknown, though Jewish tradition often attributes it to the prophet Samuel.

ADDRESSEE: The Book of Ruth is addressed to the people of Israel, reminding them of God’s faithfulness and providence. It highlights how God's care extends even to Gentiles, as seen in Ruth, a Moabite.

DATE: The book of Ruth is believed to have been written during the time of the monarchy, likely between 1010 and 970 BC, when King David reigned. The book itself mentions David at the end (Ruth 4:17-22), suggesting it was written after his rise to prominence. The events of Ruth, however, occur during the period of the Judges (around 1200-1050 BC).

SETTING: The Book of Ruth is set during the time of the Judges, a period marked by instability and sin in Israel. It takes place primarily in Bethlehem and the fields of Moab, reflecting both the struggles of famine and the hope found in God’s provision through the story of redemption.

KEY VERSES:

  1. Ruth 1:16, "But Ruth said: 'Entreat me not to leave you, Or to turn back from following after you; For wherever you go, I will go; And wherever you lodge, I will lodge; Your people shall be my people, And your God, my God.'" This verse highlights Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her choice to embrace Naomi's God, showing deep loyalty and faith.
  2. Ruth 4:14, "Then the women said to Naomi, 'Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a close relative; and may his name be famous in Israel!'" This verse celebrates God's provision and the restoration of Naomi's family line through the birth of Obed, emphasizing God's faithfulness and blessings.

BASIC STORYLINE

  1. Redemption and Marriage (Ruth 4:1-22)
    1. Boaz negotiates with the closer kinsman-redeemer, who relinquishes his right, allowing Boaz to marry Ruth.
    2. Boaz marries Ruth, and they have a son, Obed.
    3. Naomi's family line is preserved and Obed becomes the grandfather of King David.
  2. Ruth's Commitment and Return to Bethlehem (Ruth 1:6-22)
    1. Naomi hears the famine in Judah has ended and decides to return to Bethlehem.
    2. Ruth chooses to stay with Naomi and adopt her people and God.
    3. Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest.
  3. Ruth Gleans in the Fields of Boaz (Ruth 2:1-23)
    1. Ruth begins to glean in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband.
    2. Boaz shows kindness to Ruth, ensuring her safety and providing extra grain.
    3. Naomi recognizes Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer who could marry Ruth to preserve the family line.
  4. Ruth's Proposal and Boaz's Response (Ruth 3:1-18)
    1. Naomi instructs Ruth to seek marriage from Boaz by uncovering his feet at the threshing floor and asking him to spread his garment over her.
    2. Boaz agrees to fulfill the role of redeemer but mentions another relative has the first right of redemption.
    3. Ruth returns to Naomi with assurances that Boaz will resolve the matter.
  5. Redemption and Marriage (Ruth 4:1-22)
    1. Boaz negotiates with the closer kinsman-redeemer, who relinquishes his right, allowing Boaz to marry Ruth.
    2. Boaz marries Ruth, and they have a son, Obed.
    3. Naomi's family line is preserved and Obed becomes the grandfather of King David.
  6. Conclusion and Legacy (Ruth 4:18-22)
    1. The genealogy of Perez is given, showing that Ruth and Boaz are the ancestors of David.
    2. The story concludes with Ruth’s legacy as part of the lineage leading to David, emphasizing God's provision and faithfulness.

CHAPTER CONTENT:

  1. Naomi's family tragedy
  2. Ruth gleans in Boaz's field
  3. Ruth seeks Boaz’s protection
  4. Boaz redeems Ruth