What is the portrayal of Ruth in the Bible?

Ruth is one of the most beloved figures in the Bible. Her story, which is told in the book of Ruth, is a testament to loyalty, devotion, and faithfulness. In this post, we will explore the portrayal of Ruth in the Bible.

Background

The book of Ruth is set during the time of the judges, a turbulent period in Israel's history. Ruth was a Moabite woman who married an Israelite man named Mahlon while he and his family were living in Moab. After Mahlon and his brother died, Ruth's mother-in-law, Naomi, decided to return to Israel, and Ruth accompanied her.

Ruth's Loyalty

Ruth's loyalty to Naomi is one of the central themes of the book of Ruth. When Naomi urged Ruth to return to her own people, Ruth famously replied, "Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God" (Ruth 1:16).

Ruth's devotion to Naomi is an example of the kind of loyalty that God expects from his people. Ruth's willingness to leave her own people and follow Naomi to a foreign land is also a powerful example of faith in action.

Ruth's Hard Work and Humility

After Ruth and Naomi arrived in Israel, Ruth went to work gleaning in the fields to provide food for herself and Naomi. Gleaning was a difficult and often humiliating task, but Ruth approached it with humility and hard work.

Ruth's hard work and humility are an example of the kind of character that God values. Ruth's willingness to work hard and put others first is a powerful reminder of the importance of serving others and seeking to meet their needs.

Ruth's Virtue

Ruth's virtue is another central theme of the book of Ruth. Boaz, the man who owned the fields where Ruth was gleaning, took notice of her and was impressed by her virtue. Boaz praised Ruth for her loyalty to Naomi and her hard work in the fields.

Ruth's virtue is an example of the kind of character that God values. Ruth's selflessness, loyalty, and hard work are all virtues that are praised throughout the Bible.

Ruth's Redemption

The story of Ruth is ultimately a story of redemption. After Ruth and Boaz married, they had a son named Obed, who became the grandfather of King David. Ruth, a foreigner, became an ancestor of the greatest king in Israel's history.

Ruth's redemption is a powerful reminder of God's grace and mercy. Ruth's story shows that God can use anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, for his purposes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the portrayal of Ruth in the Bible is that of a loyal, hardworking, virtuous woman who is an example of faith in action. Ruth's loyalty to Naomi, her hard work in the fields, and her virtue are all traits that are praised throughout the Bible. Ruth's story is ultimately a story of redemption, a reminder of God's grace and mercy. Ruth's example continues to inspire and encourage believers today, reminding us of the kind of character that God values and the kind of faith that he expects from us.