Please Help Us Keep These Thousands of Blog Posts Growing and Free for All

$5.00

The Background and Purpose of the Book of Ruth

The Book of Ruth, set during the period of the Judges, is a narrative centered on loyalty, faith, and Jehovah’s providential care for those who trust in Him. Ruth’s story unfolds at a time of societal instability, yet it reveals the personal faithfulness of individuals who adhere to Jehovah’s standards. This period is marked by the often-repeated phrase, “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25), setting the scene for Ruth’s unique commitment to loyalty and faith amidst an environment largely devoid of obedience to God.

The book’s four chapters illustrate that even during morally ambiguous times, individuals can live in a way that honors Jehovah and demonstrates His values. Through Ruth’s journey, we see Jehovah’s covenant loyalty and kindness extended beyond Israel, showing His love and purpose for all who follow His ways. The entire story highlights essential principles—loyalty, kindness, humility, and faith—that continue to apply to believers today.

Ruth’s Loyalty: A Model of Devotion

One of the defining characteristics of Ruth’s life is her loyalty, first to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and ultimately to Jehovah. After the death of her husband, Ruth, a Moabite, could have returned to her people and their customs. Instead, she expressed a profound loyalty, declaring, “For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). This statement of commitment illustrates Ruth’s faith and dedication, not only to Naomi but to Jehovah, whom she had come to recognize as the true God.

This loyalty is remarkable, considering that Ruth was raised in a Moabite culture with its own religious practices. She made a conscious choice to abandon these in favor of worshipping Jehovah, demonstrating a devotion that transcended personal ties and cultural boundaries. Ruth’s faithfulness serves as an example for believers today, encouraging them to commit wholly to Jehovah, even when it may mean forsaking previous associations or loyalties.

Kindness and Sacrificial Love: The Relationship Between Ruth and Naomi

The relationship between Ruth and Naomi highlights the importance of kindness and sacrificial love, virtues that stand out throughout the Book of Ruth. Ruth’s willingness to stay with Naomi, work in the fields, and support her financially shows her deep compassion and love. This selfless attitude aligns with Jehovah’s call for His people to demonstrate love and kindness, as seen in Proverbs 31:26, which describes a virtuous woman as one who “opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”

Ruth’s actions exemplify what Paul later described in Galatians 6:2: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” By choosing to care for Naomi and share in her hardships, Ruth teaches us the value of bearing burdens together in community. Christians are called to extend kindness and love to those around them, particularly in times of difficulty, and to reflect Jehovah’s compassion in all their relationships.

Boaz as a Kinsman-Redeemer: A Picture of Jehovah’s Provision

A significant element in the Book of Ruth is the concept of the kinsman-redeemer, represented by Boaz. In Israelite culture, a kinsman-redeemer was responsible for protecting the family’s land and legacy, redeeming property, or even marrying a widow to continue a family line. Boaz exemplifies this role, showing generosity and integrity in his care for Ruth and Naomi. When Ruth approached Boaz, he acted in a manner that honored Jehovah’s law and demonstrated compassion toward Ruth.

Boaz’s willingness to fulfill his duty as a redeemer illustrates Jehovah’s care for His people and His provision for the vulnerable. Psalm 68:5 describes Jehovah as “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows,” highlighting His commitment to the marginalized. Boaz’s actions serve as a reminder to believers to care for those who are vulnerable, following Jehovah’s example of love and protection for those in need.

Faithfulness in Daily Life: Ruth’s Dedication in the Fields

Ruth’s daily commitment to working in the fields reveals the importance of diligence and faithfulness in everyday responsibilities. Ruth did not consider herself above labor but accepted the task of gleaning in Boaz’s fields to provide for Naomi and herself. Gleaning was not glamorous work, yet Ruth approached it with a sense of purpose, demonstrating a willingness to put in consistent effort. Her dedication exemplifies the principle found in Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

Ruth’s example encourages believers to approach even the most mundane tasks with a heart of faithfulness. Jehovah values diligence and integrity in all aspects of life, and Ruth’s willingness to work hard reflects an attitude that honors Him. Believers today can draw from Ruth’s example, knowing that their faithfulness in small matters is seen and valued by Jehovah.

Humility and Respect for Jehovah’s Laws

The story of Ruth is marked by humility and respect for the customs and laws established by Jehovah. Ruth’s approach to Boaz, for example, follows the appropriate cultural norms and demonstrates her respect for the process Jehovah set forth for redemption. Her humility is further evident in her words to Boaz in Ruth 2:10, where she says, “Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?” Ruth’s humility shines as she accepts Boaz’s kindness with gratitude rather than presumption.

Humility is essential in the life of every believer, as James 4:10 instructs, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” Ruth’s respect for Jehovah’s laws and her humble attitude serve as a powerful example of a heart aligned with God’s will. Christians are called to approach Jehovah’s Word with humility, acknowledging His wisdom and submitting to His instructions with reverence.

Jehovah’s Providence in Ruth’s Life: A Reminder of His Faithfulness

The providence displayed in the Book of Ruth is a testament to Jehovah’s faithfulness. Every event in Ruth’s life, from her decision to follow Naomi to her meeting with Boaz, shows Jehovah’s hand guiding and providing for her needs. While Ruth could not foresee how her actions would lead to future blessings, she trusted in Jehovah, and He honored her faith.

This theme of providence reassures believers that Jehovah is actively involved in their lives, even when the path forward seems uncertain. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges believers to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Ruth’s story encourages Christians to trust Jehovah’s timing and His ability to bring about His purpose, even through life’s difficulties and uncertainties.

The Inclusion of Ruth in the Lineage of Jesus: Jehovah’s Purpose for All Who Believe

One of the most significant aspects of Ruth’s story is her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Despite being a Moabite, Ruth’s faith and loyalty led her to become the great-grandmother of King David, establishing her place in the genealogy of the Messiah. This inclusion exemplifies Jehovah’s grace and His willingness to welcome all who are faithful, regardless of their background. As Paul notes in Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Ruth’s place in the lineage of Jesus serves as a reminder that Jehovah’s love and salvation are available to all who seek Him. Her story encourages believers to pursue faithfulness, knowing that Jehovah values each person who chooses to follow Him. The fact that Ruth, a foreigner, was chosen to be part of this sacred lineage emphasizes Jehovah’s plan to unite all who are faithful under His love and grace.

Practical Applications of Ruth’s Principles for Believers Today

The Book of Ruth provides believers with practical principles that apply to daily life, guiding them in their interactions with others, their approach to work, and their faithfulness to Jehovah. Ruth’s story encourages believers to prioritize loyalty to God, to approach all tasks with dedication, and to trust in Jehovah’s provision and timing. Her example is a powerful reminder of Jehovah’s faithfulness and the rewards He bestows upon those who honor Him.

By following Ruth’s example, believers can lead lives that reflect Jehovah’s love, kindness, and integrity. These principles guide believers to live in a way that honors Jehovah and aligns with His will, fostering a life of purpose, faith, and hope.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).