The Top 15 Ruth Bible Facts

Introduction:

The book of Ruth is a beautiful and inspiring story found in the Old Testament of the Bible. It tells the story of a woman named Ruth who demonstrates loyalty, faith, and love in the face of adversity. In this article, we will explore 15 fascinating facts about the book of Ruth that you may not have known before.

Fact 1: Ruth was a Moabite woman.

One of the most significant facts about Ruth is that she was not originally from Israel. She was a Moabite woman who married an Israelite man named Mahlon. When Mahlon and his brother Chilion died, Ruth decided to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, instead of returning home to Moab.

Fact 2: The story of Ruth is set during the time of the judges.

The events of the book of Ruth take place during a period in Israel’s history known as the time of the judges. This was a time of political instability and moral decline, making Ruth’s faithfulness and loyalty even more remarkable.

Fact 3: Ruth’s famous declaration of loyalty.

One of the most iconic verses in the book of Ruth is Ruth’s declaration of loyalty to Naomi. She says, “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” This statement of love and commitment has inspired countless people throughout history.

Fact 4: Ruth gleans in the fields of Boaz.

After arriving in Bethlehem with Naomi, Ruth decides to glean in the fields to provide food for them. She ends up in the fields of a man named Boaz, who shows her kindness and generosity. This encounter sets the stage for the rest of the story to unfold.

Fact 5: Boaz is a relative of Naomi.

Boaz is not just a random landowner that Ruth encounters. He is actually a kinsman of Naomi’s late husband, Elimelech. This is significant because it means that Boaz has a special responsibility to care for Naomi and Ruth according to the customs of the time.

Fact 6: The custom of kinsman-redeemer.

One of the central themes of the book of Ruth is the concept of the kinsman-redeemer. In ancient Israelite society, if a man died without a male heir, it was the duty of his closest male relative to marry his widow and carry on his name. This is exactly what Boaz does for Ruth at the end of the story.

Fact 7: Ruth and Boaz have a son named Obed.

After Ruth and Boaz are married, they have a son named Obed. Obed becomes the grandfather of King David, making Ruth an ancestor of Jesus Christ himself. This lineage highlights the importance of Ruth’s faithfulness and obedience in the larger narrative of salvation history.

Fact 8: The book of Ruth is one of only two books in the Bible named after a woman.

Out of the 66 books in the Bible, only two are named after women: Ruth and Esther. This fact underscores the significance of Ruth’s character and story in the grand tapestry of biblical literature.

Fact 9: The Hebrew word for “Ruth” means “friendship.”

The name “Ruth” comes from the Hebrew word “re’ut,” which means friendship or companion. This is fitting, as Ruth’s loyalty and devotion to Naomi exemplify true friendship in its purest form.

Fact 10: Ruth’s story is a reminder of God’s faithfulness.

Throughout the book of Ruth, we see God’s hand at work behind the scenes, orchestrating events for the good of His people. Ruth’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the midst of hardship and uncertainty, God is faithful to those who trust in Him.

Fact 11: The book of Ruth is read during the Jewish holiday of Shavuot.

In Jewish tradition, the book of Ruth is read during the holiday of Shavuot, which commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. This connection between Ruth’s story and the giving of the law underscores the importance of loyalty, kindness, and obedience in the life of faith.

Fact 12: Ruth’s actions lead to blessings for generations to come.

By choosing to stay with Naomi and follow God’s path for her life, Ruth sets in motion a chain of events that will ultimately lead to the birth of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ. Her humble obedience has far-reaching implications that she could never have imagined.

Fact 13: Ruth’s story challenges traditional gender roles.

In a society where women were often marginalized and overlooked, Ruth’s story stands out as a powerful example of female strength and agency. She takes control of her own destiny and makes choices that have a lasting impact on her family and community.

Fact 14: The book of Ruth emphasizes the importance of kindness and compassion.

Throughout the story, we see examples of kindness and compassion being extended to those in need. From Boaz’s generosity towards Ruth to Ruth’s care for Naomi, the book of Ruth highlights the transformative power of love and selflessness.

Fact 15: Ruth’s story is a testament to the power of redemption.

At its core, the book of Ruth is a story of redemption and restoration. Through Ruth’s unwavering faith and Boaz’s willingness to act as her kinsman-redeemer, we see a beautiful picture of God’s grace and mercy at work in the lives of His people.

Conclusion

The book of Ruth is a timeless story that continues to inspire and uplift readers from all walks of life. Through Ruth’s example of loyalty, faith, and love, we are reminded of the power of God’s faithfulness and the importance of living a life centered on kindness and compassion. May we follow in Ruth’s footsteps and trust in the goodness of God as we navigate the challenges and joys of our own journeys.