Ruth - Authorized King James Version (KJV)

Introduction

Ruth is a narrative book in the Old Testament that recounts key historical events and developments in Israel's history. The book contains important stories, characters, and events that contribute to the broader biblical narrative and redemptive history.

As with other biblical narratives, Ruth combines historical reporting with theological interpretation, showing how God works through historical circumstances and human actions to accomplish His purposes. The narrative demonstrates divine providence, human responsibility, and the consequences of both obedience and disobedience.

Throughout Ruth, readers can observe God's faithfulness to His covenant promises despite human failings and opposition. The book's events establish important precedents and patterns that inform biblical theology and provide context for understanding later Scriptural developments.

Historical Context

Ruth is set during the Judges period (c. 1100 BCE) but was likely written later, possibly during David's reign or the early monarchy. The story provides insight into rural life, legal customs, and social relationships during Israel's pre-monarchic period.

Agricultural Context

The narrative reflects the agricultural rhythms of ancient Palestine, with barley and wheat harvests providing seasonal structure. The gleaning laws mentioned in Ruth demonstrate social welfare provisions protecting widows, orphans, and foreigners. Archaeological evidence confirms agricultural practices described in the book.

Legal Background

The kinsman-redeemer (goel) institution reflected in Ruth represents ancient Near Eastern family law designed to preserve property within clan structures. Similar legal concepts appear in Mesopotamian law codes, though Israel's implementation emphasized covenant community values and care for vulnerable members.

Major Themes

The book develops several significant theological themes:

Divine Providence

God sovereignly works through historical circumstances and human decisions to accomplish His purposes. Even through times of difficulty and apparent setbacks, God remains active in guiding history toward His intended outcomes.

Covenant Fidelity

The book traces God's faithfulness to His covenant promises despite human failings. This covenant relationship forms the framework for understanding Israel's successes, failures, and responsibilities.

Leadership and Authority

Various leaders demonstrate both positive and negative examples of exercising authority. Their successes and failures reveal principles of godly leadership and the consequences of abusing power.

Obedience and Blessing

The narrative demonstrates connections between faithfulness to God's commands and experiencing His blessing. Conversely, disobedience leads to various forms of judgment and discipline.

Key Passages

Read Complete Ruth Commentary

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
2 Timothy 2:15