Ruth, a Moabite woman, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of her inclusion into the covenant community of Israel. Her account is primarily found in the Book of Ruth, which is set during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and religious upheaval in Israel.

Background and Context

Ruth was originally from Moab, a nation often at odds with Israel. The Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and were generally viewed with suspicion and hostility by the Israelites due to their idolatrous practices and historical enmity (Deuteronomy 23:3-6). Despite this, Ruth's account is one of loyalty, faith, and divine providence, illustrating the inclusivity of God's covenant promises.

Ruth's Loyalty and Faith

Ruth's journey into the covenant community begins with her marriage to Mahlon, an Israelite from Bethlehem who had moved to Moab with his family due to famine (Ruth 1:1-4). After the deaths of her husband, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, Ruth faces a pivotal decision. Her mother-in-law, Naomi, decides to return to Bethlehem and urges Ruth to remain in Moab. However, Ruth's response is a profound declaration of loyalty and faith: "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 marks Ruth's commitment not only to Naomi but also to the God of Israel, signifying her willingness to leave behind her native land and its gods. Her faith and determination to join the people of Israel are pivotal in her acceptance into the covenant community.

Integration into Israel

Upon arriving in Bethlehem, Ruth's integration into the community is facilitated by her character and actions. She gleans in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi's late husband, demonstrating her industriousness and humility (Ruth 2:2-3). Boaz, recognizing her loyalty to Naomi and her reputation for virtue, extends kindness and protection to her, acknowledging her as a "woman of noble character" (Ruth 3:11).

Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer is crucial in Ruth's full inclusion into the covenant community. The concept of the kinsman-redeemer, rooted in Levitical law (Leviticus 25:25), involves a relative's duty to preserve the family lineage and property. Boaz's willingness to marry Ruth and redeem the family estate ensures her place within the community and secures her future (Ruth 4:9-10).

Ruth's Legacy

Ruth's inclusion into the covenant community is further solidified through her marriage to Boaz and the birth of their son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:17). This lineage is significant, as it places Ruth in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 1:5). Her account exemplifies God's redemptive plan and the extension of His covenant blessings beyond ethnic and national boundaries.

Ruth's narrative highlights the themes of faith, redemption, and divine providence. Her inclusion into the covenant community serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the openness of God's covenant to all who seek Him with a sincere heart.