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 narrative of loyalty, faith, and divine providence. Ruth's character is marked by a unique blend of boldness and humility, which plays a crucial role in the unfolding of God's plan for her life and the lineage of King David.

Boldness

Ruth's boldness is first evident in her decision to leave her homeland and accompany her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem. After the death of her husband, Ruth faces a pivotal choice. Naomi urges her to return to her own people and gods, but Ruth's response is a testament to her courage and commitment: "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" (Ruth 1:16). This declaration is not only bold but also signifies Ruth's conversion and dedication to the God of Israel.

Ruth's boldness is further demonstrated in her actions during the barley harvest. She takes the initiative to glean in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi, despite being a foreigner and a widow, which placed her in a vulnerable position. Her courage is rewarded when she finds favor in the eyes of Boaz, a wealthy landowner and relative of Naomi's deceased husband. Boaz acknowledges her bravery, saying, "All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully reported to me—how you left your father and mother and the land of your birth, and came to a people you did not know before" (Ruth 2:11).

Ruth's boldness reaches its peak when she follows Naomi's advice to approach Boaz on the threshing floor. In an act of great courage and faith, Ruth lays at Boaz's feet, a symbolic gesture requesting his protection and invoking the levirate marriage custom. Boaz responds with kindness and respect, recognizing her noble character and agreeing to act as her kinsman-redeemer, provided a closer relative does not fulfill this role.

Humility

Ruth's humility is as striking as her boldness. Despite her courageous actions, she consistently displays a humble spirit. Her willingness to glean in the fields is an act of humility, as she takes on the role of a lowly servant to ensure the survival of herself and Naomi. When Boaz shows her kindness, Ruth responds with gratitude and humility, asking, "Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should take notice of me, even though I am a foreigner?" (Ruth 2:10).

Ruth's humility is also evident in her relationship with Naomi. She submits to Naomi's guidance and wisdom, demonstrating respect and deference to her mother-in-law. Her actions on the threshing floor, while bold, are carried out with a humble heart, as she seeks Boaz's protection not for personal gain but to honor her commitment to Naomi and her deceased husband.

Throughout the narrative, Ruth's humility is intertwined with her faith. She trusts in God's provision and timing, never seeking to elevate herself but rather to serve those around her. Her humble spirit is ultimately rewarded by God, as she becomes the great-grandmother of King David and is included in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5).

Ruth's account is a powerful example of how boldness and humility can coexist in a life of faith, leading to divine blessing and fulfillment of God's purposes.