Topical Encyclopedia Ruth, a Moabite woman, is a central figure in the Book of Ruth, which is part of the Old Testament. Her account is a profound testament to loyalty, faith, and divine providence. Ruth's devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi, is a key theme that highlights her character and the unfolding of God's plan through her life.Background Ruth lived during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and religious upheaval in Israel. She was originally from Moab, a nation often at odds with Israel. Ruth became part of an Israelite family through marriage to Mahlon, one of the sons of Elimelech and Naomi, who had moved to Moab due to famine in Bethlehem (Ruth 1:1-4). Ruth's Devotion After the deaths of Elimelech and his two sons, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, having heard that the LORD had provided food for His people (Ruth 1:6). Naomi urged her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, to return to their own mothers and remarry. Orpah eventually agreed, but Ruth's response was markedly different. Ruth's devotion is encapsulated in her famous declaration to Naomi: "Do not urge me to leave you or to turn from following you. For 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. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD punish me, and ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me" (Ruth 1:16-17). This vow signifies Ruth's unwavering commitment not only to Naomi but also to the God of Israel, marking her conversion and faith. Life in Bethlehem Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, Ruth's loyalty continued to manifest through her actions. She took the initiative to glean in the fields to provide for Naomi and herself, demonstrating her industriousness and humility (Ruth 2:2-3). Her work ethic and character soon caught the attention of Boaz, a relative of Elimelech, who showed her favor and protection (Ruth 2:8-9). Naomi, recognizing Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer, instructed Ruth to approach him according to the custom of levirate marriage. Ruth's obedience and respectful approach to Boaz further illustrate her devotion and integrity (Ruth 3:1-9). Ruth's Legacy Ruth's devotion to Naomi and her faithfulness to God led to her marriage to Boaz, which secured her and Naomi's future. This union was blessed with a son, Obed, who became the grandfather of King David, placing Ruth in the direct lineage of Jesus Christ (Ruth 4:13-17; Matthew 1:5). Ruth's account is a powerful example of how God can work through individuals who demonstrate faithfulness and love. Her devotion to Naomi not only transformed her own life but also played a crucial role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for humanity. Nave's Topical Index Ruth 1:16,17And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you: 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: Nave's Topical Index Ruth 1:6-18 Library Ruth and Naomi. The Devotion of Ruth Ruth A Gentle Heroine, a Gentile Convert Hezekiah, a Pattern of Devout Life Hebrew Captives; Or, Mordecai and Esther. Letter cviii. To Eustochium. The Pilgrim's Progress Resources Who was Naomi in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Ruth | GotQuestions.org What did it mean to spread the corner of your garment over someone? | GotQuestions.org Ruth: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ruth: Becomes an Ancestor of Jesus Ruth: Gleaned in the Field of Boaz Ruth: Receives Kindness from Boaz Ruth: The Daughter-In-Law of Naomi Ruth: Under Naomi's Instructions Claims from Boaz the Duty of a Kinsman Related Terms Mother-in-law (16 Occurrences) Daughter-in-law (16 Occurrences) Threshing-floor (36 Occurrences) |
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