The Book of Ruth: Ancient Narrative of Kinship and Redemption in Biblical Literature
The Book of Ruth tells a story of loyalty and legal redemption set during the era of judges in ancient Israel. After both women lose their husbands, Ruth, a Moabite, chooses to stay with her Israelite mother-in-law Naomi, leaving Bethlehem for Moab due to famine. Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband Elimelech, serves as the kinsman-redeemer by acquiring Elimelech’s land and marrying Ruth when another relative opts out. Their son Obed eventually becomes the grandfather of King David, establishing Ruth’s important place in biblical history. Likely composed during the monarchic period, the narrative explores themes of chesed, divine providence, and changes in fortune. Artistic representations can be found in institutions such as the National Gallery London and The British Museum.
Key facts
- The Book of Ruth dates to between the late 14th century BC and early 11th century BC, set during the time of the judges
- Ruth was a Moabite woman who became the great-grandmother of King David and ancestor of Jesus
- Boaz acted as kinsman-redeemer, purchasing land and entering levirate marriage with Ruth according to Levitical law
- The narrative demonstrates chesed (loving-kindness) through relationships between Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz
- Artistic interpretations include works by Rembrandt, William Blake, Gustave Doré, and Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld
- The text's composition likely occurred during Israel's monarchic period, though traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Key passages include Ruth 1:16-17 where Ruth declares loyalty to Naomi and her God
- The story involves migration between Bethlehem in Judah and Moab due to famine
Entities
Artists
- Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld
- Rembrandt
- James Walker
- Gustave Doré
- Reinier Vinkeles
- Henry Nelson O'Neil
- William Blake
- Eduard Holbein
- Samuel
- David
- Jesus
- Ruth
- Naomi
- Boaz
- Elimelech
- Obed
- Jesse
- Orpah
- Lot
- Rahab
Institutions
- National Gallery, London
- Kupferstichkabinett der Staatlichen Museen, Berlin
- The British Museum
- Wikimedia Commons
- V & A
Locations
- Bethlehem
- Judah
- Moab
- Israel
- London
- Berlin
- United Kingdom
- Germany