8. Ruth (Bible Summary)

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A Story of Loyalty, Redemption, and Restoration

Introduction: Naomi Emptied (1:1–5)

  • The book opens with a famine in Israel, leading to the migration of Elimelech and his family to Moab. Unfortunately, Elimelech dies, and Naomi is left widowed with two sons, who also die, leaving Naomi and her daughters-in-law destitute.

Naomi Returns from Moab (1:6–22)

  • Ruth Clings to Naomi (1:6–18):
    • Naomi hears that the Lord has blessed Israel with food and decides to return to Bethlehem. Naomi urges her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, to stay in Moab, but Ruth refuses to leave her and pledges her loyalty, saying, “Your people will be my people, and your God my God.”
  • Ruth and Naomi Return to Bethlehem (1:19–22):
    • Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem, where the people are shocked to see Naomi, who feels “emptied” by God’s hand, but Ruth’s arrival signals hope for her future.

Ruth and Boaz Meet in the Harvest Fields (Chapter 2)

  • Ruth Begins Work (2:1–7):
    • Ruth goes to glean in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband, hoping to find favor and provision.
  • Boaz Shows Kindness to Ruth (2:8–16):
    • Boaz notices Ruth and instructs his workers to allow her to glean freely and to provide extra grain for her. Ruth is moved by his kindness and thanks him.
  • Ruth Returns to Naomi (2:17–23):
    • Ruth returns with a generous amount of grain, and Naomi realizes Boaz’s kindness and sees the potential for him to be their redeemer.

Naomi Sends Ruth to Boaz’s Threshing Floor (Chapter 3)

  • Naomi Instructs Ruth (3:1–5):
    • Naomi devises a plan for Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor, where he will be sleeping after the harvest. Ruth is instructed to uncover his feet and lie down, symbolizing her request for Boaz to act as her kinsman-redeemer.
  • Boaz Pledges to Secure Redemption (3:6–15):
    • Ruth follows Naomi’s plan, and Boaz is surprised by her request. He agrees to redeem her but reveals that a closer relative has the first right of refusal. He promises to resolve the matter the next day.
  • Ruth Returns to Naomi (3:16–18):
    • Ruth returns to Naomi, who reassures her that Boaz will settle the matter quickly, showing confidence in Boaz’s integrity and willingness to redeem them.

Boaz Arranges to Fulfill His Pledge (Chapter 4)

  • Boaz Confronts the Unnamed Kinsman (4:1–8):
    • Boaz goes to the town gate, where the closest relative is sitting. He presents the opportunity to redeem the land that Naomi owns but is informed that the relative cannot marry Ruth. Boaz then takes on the responsibility.
  • Boaz Buys Naomi’s Property and Announces His Marriage to Ruth (4:9–12):
    • Boaz publicly redeems Naomi’s property, agreeing to marry Ruth in order to raise up a son for her deceased husband. The people of the town bless their union, praying that they would be as prosperous as Rachel and Leah, the mothers of Israel.

Conclusion: Naomi Filled (4:13–17)

  • Boaz and Ruth marry, and they have a son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. Naomi, once emptied, is now filled with joy at the restoration of her family.

Epilogue: Genealogy of David (4:18–22)

  • The book concludes with a genealogy that traces the lineage of David, showing Ruth as the great-grandmother of the future king, highlighting God’s providential work in bringing about the Davidic line through this Moabite woman’s faithfulness.

Summary

The Book of Ruth is a story of loyalty, faith, and redemption. Through Ruth’s dedication to Naomi and her willingness to embrace the God of Israel, she becomes part of God’s plan of salvation. The narrative centers on Ruth’s relationship with Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer who redeems her and Naomi, ensuring the continuation of their family line. Through their union, God providentially provides a child, Obed, who becomes the ancestor of King David. Ruth’s story serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to redeem, restore, and fulfill His promises through ordinary yet remarkable individuals.

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