Lecture Notes: The Book of Ruth

Overview

• The Book of Ruth is a theologically rich narrative that explores God's involvement in everyday life through three main characters:
  • Naomi: A widow
  • Ruth: A Moabite, Naomi's daughter-in-law
  • Boaz: An Israelite farmer
• The story is structured in four chapters and shows the intricate design of the narrative.

Chapter 1: Introduction and Tragedy

• Starts "In the days when the judges ruled," indicating a time of difficulty.
• An Israelite family from Bethlehem moves to Moab due to famine.
  • The father dies, and the sons marry Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah, and then they die too.
• Naomi, left with her daughters-in-law, decides to return to Bethlehem.
  • Urges Orpah and Ruth to stay in Moab.
  • Orpah stays; Ruth shows loyalty to Naomi, insisting on going with her.
• Naomi changes her name to "Marah" (bitter), reflecting her grief.

Chapter 2: Ruth Meets Boaz

• Naomi and Ruth need food; Ruth goes to glean barley.
• "Happens" to glean in Boaz's field, a relative of Naomi.
• Boaz, a man of noble character, notices Ruth's loyalty and shows generosity.
  • Provides for Ruth, obeying Torah's command to care for the immigrant and poor.
• Naomi is hopeful upon learning of Ruth's encounter with Boaz, a potential "family redeemer."

Chapter 3: Ruth's Proposal to Boaz

• Naomi and Ruth plan to approach Boaz for redemption.
• Ruth signals her availability for marriage by changing her attire.
• Ruth meets Boaz at the farm, clarifies her intentions, and requests redemption through marriage.
• Boaz praises Ruth’s noble character and agrees to redeem them, contingent on legal matters.

Chapter 4: Resolution and Redemption

• Boaz finds a closer relative who declines the redemption responsibility upon learning marriage with Ruth is required.
• Boaz marries Ruth, acquiring Naomi's family property, and reverses earlier tragedies.
• Ruth bears a son, providing joy and hope to Naomi.
• The story's symmetry is highlighted:
  • Opening tragedy and Ruth’s loyalty
  • Boaz's loyalty leads to family restoration

Themes and Symbolism

• God's Providence:
  • Little direct mention of God’s actions, emphasizing His work behind the scenes.
  • Naomi sees her tragedy as divine punishment, but it leads to restoration.
  • Ruth’s boldness and Boaz’s integrity are instruments of God’s mission.

Conclusion

• The book ends with a genealogy linking to King David and the Messiah.
• Highlights the significance of ordinary events in God's grand narrative of redemption.
• Invites reflection on God’s work in mundane life details.