Book of Ruth - Revision history

Nick at 10:26, 27 December 2024

2024-12-27T10:26:47Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:26, 27 December 2024
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	==Title==		==Title==
	The full title in Hebrew is מגילת רות, ''Megillat Ruth'', or "the scroll of Ruth", which places the book as one of the [[Five Megillot]]. Goswell argues that while [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]] is the ''central'' character of the book, Ruth is the ''main'' character, and so the book "can be considered aptly named."~~<sup>[]</sup>~~		The full title in Hebrew is מגילת רות, ''Megillat Ruth'', or "the scroll of Ruth", which places the book as one of the [[Five Megillot]]. Goswell argues that while [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]] is the ''central'' character of the book, Ruth is the ''main'' character, and so the book "can be considered aptly named."

	==Synopsis==		==Synopsis==
	During the time of the [[Book of Judges\|Judges]] when there was a famine, an Israelite family from [[Bethlehem]]—Elimelech, his wife [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]], and their sons [[Mahlon and Chilion]]—emigrate to the nearby country of [[Moab]]. Elimelech dies, and the sons marry two Moabite women: Mahlon marries Ruth and Chilion marries Orpah.		During the time of the [[Book of Judges\|Judges]] when there was a famine, an Israelite family from [[Bethlehem]]—Elimelech, his wife [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]], and their sons [[Mahlon and Chilion]]—emigrate to the nearby country of [[Moab]]. Elimelech dies, and the sons marry two Moabite women: Mahlon marries Ruth and Chilion marries Orpah.

	The two sons of Naomi then die themselves. Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem. She tells her daughters-in-law to return to their own mothers, and remarry. Orpah reluctantly leaves; however, Ruth says, "~~Entreat~~ me not to leave ~~you~~, or to ~~turn back~~ from following ~~you; For wherever you go~~, I will go; ~~And wherever you lodge~~, I will lodge~~; Your~~ people shall be my people, and ~~your~~ God, my God~~. Where you die~~, I ~~will~~ die, and there will I be buried~~. The LORD~~ do so to me, and more also, if ~~anything~~ but death ~~parts you~~ and me." (Ruth 1:16-17 ~~NKJV~~)		The two sons of Naomi then die themselves. Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem. She tells her daughters-in-law to return to their own mothers, and remarry. Orpah reluctantly leaves; however, Ruth says, "And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 17 where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me." (Ruth 1:16-17 KJV)

	The two women return to Bethlehem. It is the time of the barley harvest, and in order to support her mother-in-law and herself, Ruth goes to the fields to [[gleaning\|glean]]. The field she goes to belongs to a man named [[Boaz]], who is kind to her because he has heard of her loyalty to her mother-in-law. Ruth tells her mother-in-law of Boaz's kindness, and she gleans in his field through the remainder of the harvest season.		The two women return to Bethlehem. It is the time of the barley harvest, and in order to support her mother-in-law and herself, Ruth goes to the fields to [[gleaning\|glean]]. The field she goes to belongs to a man named [[Boaz]], who is kind to her because he has heard of her loyalty to her mother-in-law. Ruth tells her mother-in-law of Boaz's kindness, and she gleans in his field through the remainder of the harvest season.
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	Boaz and Ruth get married and have a son named Obed (who by Levirate customs is also considered a son or heir to Mahlon, and thus Naomi's grandson). In the genealogy which concludes the story, it is pointed out that Obed is the descendant of [[Perez]] the son of Judah, and the grandfather of [[David]].		Boaz and Ruth get married and have a son named Obed (who by Levirate customs is also considered a son or heir to Mahlon, and thus Naomi's grandson). In the genealogy which concludes the story, it is pointed out that Obed is the descendant of [[Perez]] the son of Judah, and the grandfather of [[David]].

	~~==Analysis==~~
	~~=== Authorship ===~~
	~~[[Image:1795-William-Blake-Naomi-entreating-Ruth-Orpah.jpg\|thumb\|Naomi entreating Ruth and Orpah to return to the land of Moab by William Blake, 1795]]~~

	Many of the books of the Old Testament do not identify their authors, and the ''Book of Ruth'' is one of these. There is, however, a historical tradition that alludes to a possibility. The [[Talmud]] refers to [[Samuel (Bible)\|Samuel]] as the author, but scholars do not accept this tradition. Samuel died before David became king, and the way in which the author writes the [[genealogy]] in [[Ruth 4:18]]-[[Ruth 4:22\|22]] supposes that the lineage is well known. Even the reference in Ruth 1:1 to the "days when the judges ruled..." indicates that the era had ended and that the audience was somewhat removed from the time. Furthermore, Ruth 4:7 states that the legal custom of taking off a shoe to seal the agreement is no longer in use. Only a generation exists between Samuel and Boaz; therefore, it is unlikely that the time span would require this explanation.

	Some scholars suggest that the author of the text is a woman. <sup>[]</sup> Two observations point in the direction of a woman author. First, the story centers on the life journey of two women in desperate straits in a male-dominated society and appears to be from the viewpoint of a woman. Second, Naomi and Ruth’s ingenuity and assertiveness propels the story line. However, female authorship is conjecture, supported by only [[circumstantial evidence]].

	~~=== Date ===~~
	The Book of Ruth, according to many scholars, was originally part of the [[Book of Judges]], but it was later separated from that book and made independent. The opening verses explicitly place the ''Book of Ruth'' in the time of the Judges and it concludes with the Davidic lineage. Therefore, it is likely that the author wrote the story after the time of King David, though it is unknown how long after. One possibility is around 900 [[Common Era\|BC]], shortly after David's reign. Scholars who choose this date link it to the importance of David’s lineage recorded at the end of Ruth. In [[Ruth 4:12]] the author states that Ruth and Boaz’ child is named [[Obed]] and that Obed “…became the father of [[Jesse]], the father of David.” The final verses trace the family line.

	On the other hand, the message of the book shows acceptance of the Israelites marrying converts to [[Judaism]], and this has been used to suggest that the book was written during the [[Babylonian captivity\|postexilic]] period, perhaps around 500 BC. [[Book of Ezra\|Ezra]] (10:2ff) and [[Book of Nehemiah\|Nehemiah]] (13:23ff) record the problem that arose from the Israelites marrying foreign women. Instead of the wives converting to Judaism the Israelites began to follow their wives' gods. As a result, God’s people fell out of relationship with [[YHWH]]. For this reason, [[Ezra]] condemned intermarriages and forced the Israelites to abandon their non-Jewish wives. According to this theory, the book was written in response to Ezra's reform and in defense of a marriage to a foreign wife when the wife converts to Judaism. Acceptance of marriages to foreigners who convert to Judaism is further enforced by making the connection to the Davidic line since David is commonly seen as Israel's greatest king. Scholars who prefer the 500 B.C. date do so in reference to this dilemma, and such writers contend that the ''Book of Ruth'' demonstrates the belief that a marriage to a foreigner is acceptable to God when the foreigner follows God.

	In addition, the later date of 500 B.C is preferred when explaining the use of language in Ruth; however, scholars also realize that the linguistic style of the book could reflect the work of editors following the 900 B.C. date. Essentially, the dating of Ruth is ambiguous, and scholars cannot date the Book of Ruth with any degree of certainty.

	It is actually argued, in terms of language, that the book of Ruth is much more akin to an archaic style of Hebrew (J.M. Myers, ''The Linguistic and Literary Form of the Book of Ruth'' and Ronald M. Hals, ''The Theology of the Book of Ruth''). It is much more likely that the author wrote in an "archaic" style of Hebrew because he lived in the time period when that form of Hebrew was normal, and that the Aramaic infiltrations in the book of Ruth were later inserted. This is much more easily argued than the other stance that the book was written later (i.e. circa 500 B.C.) with archaic forms of Hebrew being inserted. Therefore, linguistically, it is believed that the Aramaic that is found in the book does not indicate that the book was written later, but that later editorship brought about certain linguistic changes, that, if not scrutinized, may be taken to be evidence for a late authorship. This has not held up well to most scholarship on the subject.

	~~===Context===~~
	~~{{Template:Book of Ruth}}~~
	~~Scholars agree that Ruth is a narrative story, and they often use terms like '[[novella]]' to describe it. <sup>[]</sup>~~
	The plot of a novella is more central than historical data; however, that is not to say this style of writing ignores historical facts or for that matter theological precepts. This style of writing reflects the craftsmanship of the writer.

	The mood of the story is fashioned from the start through the meanings hidden in the names of the participants. Elimelech, which means "my God is King,"<sup>[]</sup> foreshadows the continuance of his line to King David, who is God’s anointed on earth. Naomi, which means "my gracious one" or "my delight,"<sup>[]</sup> later asks to be called Mara, "the bitter one."<sup>[]</sup> Naomi’s name change elicits the emotions that she is experiencing and the direction of the story. Even the names of the two sons, Mahlon ("sick")<sup>[]</sup> and Chilion ("weakening" or "pining")<sup>[]</sup> alerts the reader to their physical conditions. [[Orpah]] (meaning "mane" or "gazelle", from the root for "nape" or "back of the neck")<sup>[]</sup> turns her back on Naomi and returns to her people; Ruth (meaning "friend")<sup>[]</sup> pledges her loyalty to Naomi. Boaz ("fleetness"<sup>[]</sup> or "strength is (in) him" or "he comes in strength") becomes the kinsman redeemer and Obed’s name appropriately means "servant."<sup>[]</sup> Obed is the ancestor of King David, and Israel’s kings are servants of Yahweh. The use of names in the ''Book of Ruth'' deepens the story’s narrative strength and assists the reader in appreciating the text’s meaning.

	The marriage of Boaz and Ruth was of a type known as a [[Levirate marriage]]. Redemption<sup>[]</sup><sup>[]</sup> is a feature of Levirate marriage, and it is a duty taught in [[Deuteronomy]] (25:5-10). This custom required a close relative to marry the widow of the deceased (the kinsman) in order to continue his family line. Interestingly, Ruth is not Elimelech’s widow and Boaz is not his brother. Therefore, some scholars refer to Boaz’ duty as “Levirate-like” or as a "kinsman-marriage."<sup>[]</sup>

	Moreover, the Israelites understanding of redemption included both that of people and of land. In Israel land had to stay in the family. The family could mortgage the land to ward off poverty; and the law of Leviticus 25:25ff required a kinsman to purchase it back into the family. The kinsman, who Boaz meets at the city gate, first says he will purchase the land, but upon hearing he must also take Ruth as his wife he withdraws his offer. His decision was primarily a financial decision since a child born to Ruth through the union would inherit Elimelech’s land, and he would not be reimbursed for the money he paid Naomi. Boaz becomes Ruth and Naomi’s "kinsman-redeemer." <sup>[]</sup>

	The Israelites' understanding of redemption is woven into their understanding of Yahweh. God stands by the oppressed and needy. He extends his love and [[mercy]] offering a new freedom and hope. God has a deep concern for the welfare of his people, materially, emotionally and spiritually. The redemption theme extends beyond this biblical book through the genealogy. First, in [[Ruth 4:13]] God made her conceive. Second, through the genealogy it is shown that the son born to Naomi is more than just a gift from God to continue her lineage. The history of God’s rule through the David line connects the book’s theme in to the Bible’s main theme of redemptive history.

	''Hesed'', sometimes translated as "loving kindness," also implies loyalty. The theme of ''hesed'' is woven throughout Ruth, beginning at 1:8 with Naomi blessing her two daughters-in-law as she urges them to return to their Moabite families. She says, “May the Lord deal kindly with you, as you have dealt with the dead and with me.” Both Ruth and Boaz demonstrate ''hesed'' to their family members throughout the story. These are not acts of kindness with an expectation of measure for measure. Rather, they are acts of ''hesed'' that go beyond measure and demonstrate that a person can be required to go beyond the minimum expectations of the law and choose the unexpected. However, the importance of the law is evident within the Book of Ruth, and the story reflects a need to stay within legal boundaries. Boaz, in going beyond measure in acquiring the property (demonstrating ''hesed''), redeems not only the land but both Naomi and Ruth as well. The two widows now have a secure and protected future.

	===Jewish and Christian perspectives===		===Jewish and Christian perspectives===
	In many ways, most of what Christians and Jews would draw from the text would be the same. The ''Book of Ruth'' has a unique significance to Jews. In particular, the figure of Ruth is celebrated as a convert to Judaism who understood Jewish principles and took them to heart. This book is also held in esteem by Jews who fall under the category of [[Conversion to Judaism\|Jews-by-choice]], as evident in the considerable presence of Boaz in rabbinic literature.		In many ways, most of what Christians and Jews would draw from the text would be the same. The ''Book of Ruth'' has a unique significance to Jews. In particular, the figure of Ruth is celebrated as a convert to Judaism who understood Jewish principles and took them to heart. This book is also held in esteem by Jews who fall under the category of [[Conversion to Judaism\|Jews-by-choice]], as evident in the considerable presence of Boaz in rabbinic literature.

	For Christians the book has additional significance. The connection between Ruth and David is very important because [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] was born of [[Mary, the mother of Jesus\|Mary]], betrothed to Joseph of the lineage of David (see Chapter 3 in [[Gospel of Luke\|Luke]] and Chapter 1 in [[Gospel of Matthew\|Matthew]], respectively). Thus in Christian Biblical lineage, Ruth is a fore-mother of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). The line can be traced as:[[Image:Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld- Ruth im Feld des Boaz.jpg\|thumb\|[[Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld]]: Ruth in Boaz's Field, 1828]]		For Christians the book has additional significance. The connection between Ruth and David is very important because [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] was born of [[Mary, the mother of Jesus\|Mary]], betrothed to Joseph of the lineage of David (see Chapter 3 in [[Gospel of Luke\|Luke]] and Chapter 1 in

	:Boaz, father of Obed		:Boaz, father of Obed

KJV: Template:Donate

2018-12-13T11:10:44Z

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← Older revision		Revision as of 11:10, 13 December 2018
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	[[Category:Converts to Judaism]]		[[Category:Converts to Judaism]]

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Beza 1598 at 07:37, 5 March 2016

2016-03-05T07:37:33Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:37, 5 March 2016
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	[[Category:Order of the Eastern Star]]		[[Category:Order of the Eastern Star]]
	[[Category:Converts to Judaism]]		[[Category:Converts to Judaism]]

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Nick: /* Family tree of those mentioned */

2011-09-24T08:22:32Z

Family tree of those mentioned

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 Ruth's famous words, "For wherever you go, I will go ...," are used in [[Catholicism|Catholic]] and some [[Protestantism|Protestant]] [[marriage]] services, underscoring the similarity of marriage and religious conversion. Ruth is also commemorated as a matriarch in the [[Calendar of Saints (Lutheran)|Calendar of Saints]] of the [[Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod]] on [[July 16]].
-==Family tree of those mentioned==
 == Notes ==

Nick at 08:22, 24 September 2011

2011-09-24T08:22:10Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:22, 24 September 2011
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	==Title==		==Title==
	The full title in Hebrew is מגילת רות, ''Megillat Ruth'', or "the scroll of Ruth", which places the book as one of the [[Five Megillot]]. Goswell argues that while [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]] is the ''central'' character of the book, Ruth is the ''main'' character, and so the book "can be considered aptly named."<~~ref~~>~~Gregory Goswell, "What's in a Name? Book Titles in the Latter Prophets and Writings," ''Pacfica 21 (2008), 8.~~</~~ref~~>		The full title in Hebrew is מגילת רות, ''Megillat Ruth'', or "the scroll of Ruth", which places the book as one of the [[Five Megillot]]. Goswell argues that while [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]] is the ''central'' character of the book, Ruth is the ''main'' character, and so the book "can be considered aptly named."<sup>[]</sup>

	==Synopsis==		==Synopsis==
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	[[Image:1795-William-Blake-Naomi-entreating-Ruth-Orpah.jpg\|thumb\|Naomi entreating Ruth and Orpah to return to the land of Moab by William Blake, 1795]]		[[Image:1795-William-Blake-Naomi-entreating-Ruth-Orpah.jpg\|thumb\|Naomi entreating Ruth and Orpah to return to the land of Moab by William Blake, 1795]]

	Many of the books of the Old Testament do not identify their authors, and the ''Book of Ruth'' is one of these. There is, however, a historical tradition that alludes to a possibility. The [[Talmud]] refers to [[Samuel (Bible)\|Samuel]] as the author, but scholars do not accept this tradition. Samuel died before David became king, and the way in which the author writes the [[genealogy]] in Ruth 4:18-22 supposes that the lineage is well known. Even the reference in Ruth 1:1 to the "days when the judges ruled..." indicates that the era had ended and that the audience was somewhat removed from the time. Furthermore, Ruth 4:7 states that the legal custom of taking off a shoe to seal the agreement is no longer in use. Only a generation exists between Samuel and Boaz; therefore, it is unlikely that the time span would require this explanation.		Many of the books of the Old Testament do not identify their authors, and the ''Book of Ruth'' is one of these. There is, however, a historical tradition that alludes to a possibility. The [[Talmud]] refers to [[Samuel (Bible)\|Samuel]] as the author, but scholars do not accept this tradition. Samuel died before David became king, and the way in which the author writes the [[genealogy]] in [[Ruth 4:18]]-[[Ruth 4:22\|22]] supposes that the lineage is well known. Even the reference in Ruth 1:1 to the "days when the judges ruled..." indicates that the era had ended and that the audience was somewhat removed from the time. Furthermore, Ruth 4:7 states that the legal custom of taking off a shoe to seal the agreement is no longer in use. Only a generation exists between Samuel and Boaz; therefore, it is unlikely that the time span would require this explanation.

	Some scholars suggest that the author of the text is a woman. <~~ref~~>cite book\| url = http://books.google.com/books?id=2-q2JrzXqDAC&pg=PA34&lpg=PA34&dq=%22the+book+of+ruth%22+bible+%22female+author%22&source=web&ots=2xthqOZ0yS&sig=THR7Asc9IAFCw9VBh92Gi-GabA4\| title = The Feminist Companion to the Bible \| author= Brenner, Athalya and Fontaine, Carole R.\| publisher= Sheffield Academic Press\| page=34\| year = 1999 \| accessdate = 2007-12-30</~~ref~~> Two observations point in the direction of a woman author. First, the story centers on the life journey of two women in desperate straits in a male-dominated society and appears to be from the viewpoint of a woman. Second, Naomi and Ruth’s ingenuity and assertiveness propels the story line. However, female authorship is conjecture, supported by only [[circumstantial evidence]].		Some scholars suggest that the author of the text is a woman. <sup>[]</sup> Two observations point in the direction of a woman author. First, the story centers on the life journey of two women in desperate straits in a male-dominated society and appears to be from the viewpoint of a woman. Second, Naomi and Ruth’s ingenuity and assertiveness propels the story line. However, female authorship is conjecture, supported by only [[circumstantial evidence]].

	=== Date ===		=== Date ===
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	===Context===		===Context===
	{{Template:Book of Ruth}}		{{Template:Book of Ruth}}
	Scholars agree that Ruth is a narrative story, and they often use terms like '[[novella]]' to describe it. <~~ref~~>cite book\| url = http://books.google.com/books?id=wJQvoHg91QkC&pg=PA47&lpg=PA47&dq=%22the+book+of+ruth%22+bible+novella&source=web&ots=Vk8xt9VyYW&sig=hvqJT1B1i0p0Ur59QnpIb37QGPg\| title = Book of Ruth \| author= Hubbard, Robert L.\| page=47\| year = 1989 \| accessdate = 2007-12-30</~~ref~~>		Scholars agree that Ruth is a narrative story, and they often use terms like '[[novella]]' to describe it. <sup>[]</sup>
	The plot of a novella is more central than historical data; however, that is not to say this style of writing ignores historical facts or for that matter theological precepts. This style of writing reflects the craftsmanship of the writer.		The plot of a novella is more central than historical data; however, that is not to say this style of writing ignores historical facts or for that matter theological precepts. This style of writing reflects the craftsmanship of the writer.

	The mood of the story is fashioned from the start through the meanings hidden in the names of the participants. Elimelech, which means "my God is King,"<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H0458&t=kjv Elimelech, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> foreshadows the continuance of his line to King David, who is God’s anointed on earth. Naomi, which means "my gracious one" or "my delight,"<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H05281&t=kjv Naomi, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> later asks to be called Mara, "the bitter one."<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H04755&t=kjv Mara, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> Naomi’s name change elicits the emotions that she is experiencing and the direction of the story. Even the names of the two sons, Mahlon ("sick")<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H04248&t=kjv Mahlon, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> and Chilion ("weakening" or "pining")<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H03630&t=kjv Chilion, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> alerts the reader to their physical conditions. [[Orpah]] (meaning "mane" or "gazelle", from the root for "nape" or "back of the neck")<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H06204&t=kjv Orpah, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> turns her back on Naomi and returns to her people; Ruth (meaning "friend")<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H07327&t=kjv Ruth, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> pledges her loyalty to Naomi. Boaz ("fleetness"<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H01162&t=kjv Boaz, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> or "strength is (in) him"~~{{Fact\|date=October 2008}}~~ or "he comes in strength") becomes the kinsman redeemer and Obed’s name appropriately means "servant."<~~ref~~>[~~http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H05744&t=kjv Obed, Blue Letter Bible Lexicon~~]</~~ref~~> Obed is the ancestor of King David, and Israel’s kings are servants of Yahweh. The use of names in the ''Book of Ruth'' deepens the story’s narrative strength and assists the reader in appreciating the text’s meaning.		The mood of the story is fashioned from the start through the meanings hidden in the names of the participants. Elimelech, which means "my God is King,"<sup>[]</sup> foreshadows the continuance of his line to King David, who is God’s anointed on earth. Naomi, which means "my gracious one" or "my delight,"<sup>[]</sup> later asks to be called Mara, "the bitter one."<sup>[]</sup> Naomi’s name change elicits the emotions that she is experiencing and the direction of the story. Even the names of the two sons, Mahlon ("sick")<sup>[]</sup> and Chilion ("weakening" or "pining")<sup>[]</sup> alerts the reader to their physical conditions. [[Orpah]] (meaning "mane" or "gazelle", from the root for "nape" or "back of the neck")<sup>[]</sup> turns her back on Naomi and returns to her people; Ruth (meaning "friend")<sup>[]</sup> pledges her loyalty to Naomi. Boaz ("fleetness"<sup>[]</sup> or "strength is (in) him" or "he comes in strength") becomes the kinsman redeemer and Obed’s name appropriately means "servant."<sup>[]</sup> Obed is the ancestor of King David, and Israel’s kings are servants of Yahweh. The use of names in the ''Book of Ruth'' deepens the story’s narrative strength and assists the reader in appreciating the text’s meaning.

	The marriage of Boaz and Ruth was of a type known as a [[Levirate marriage]]. Redemption<~~ref~~>[~~http://www.mf.no/bibelprog/easton.pl?word=goel Easton Dictionary<!-- Bot generated title -->~~]</~~ref~~><~~ref~~>[~~http://www.mf.no/bibelprog/easton?word=redemption Easton Dictionary<!-- Bot generated title -->~~]</~~ref~~> is a feature of Levirate marriage, and it is a duty taught in [[Deuteronomy]] (25:5-10). This custom required a close relative to marry the widow of the deceased (the kinsman) in order to continue his family line. Interestingly, Ruth is not Elimelech’s widow and Boaz is not his brother. Therefore, some scholars refer to Boaz’ duty as “Levirate-like” or as a "kinsman-marriage."<~~ref~~>~~LaSor et al.~~</~~ref~~>		The marriage of Boaz and Ruth was of a type known as a [[Levirate marriage]]. Redemption<sup>[]</sup><sup>[]</sup> is a feature of Levirate marriage, and it is a duty taught in [[Deuteronomy]] (25:5-10). This custom required a close relative to marry the widow of the deceased (the kinsman) in order to continue his family line. Interestingly, Ruth is not Elimelech’s widow and Boaz is not his brother. Therefore, some scholars refer to Boaz’ duty as “Levirate-like” or as a "kinsman-marriage."<sup>[]</sup>

	Moreover, the Israelites understanding of redemption included both that of people and of land. In Israel land had to stay in the family. The family could mortgage the land to ward off poverty; and the law of Leviticus 25:25ff required a kinsman to purchase it back into the family. The kinsman, who Boaz meets at the city gate, first says he will purchase the land, but upon hearing he must also take Ruth as his wife he withdraws his offer. His decision was primarily a financial decision since a child born to Ruth through the union would inherit Elimelech’s land, and he would not be reimbursed for the money he paid Naomi. Boaz becomes Ruth and Naomi’s "kinsman-redeemer." <~~ref~~>cite web \| url = http://www.hopeofisrael.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=37&Itemid=32\| title = Kinsman Redeemer\| publisher = Hope of Israel Baptist Mission\| year = 2008 \| accessdate = 2007-12-30</~~ref~~>		Moreover, the Israelites understanding of redemption included both that of people and of land. In Israel land had to stay in the family. The family could mortgage the land to ward off poverty; and the law of Leviticus 25:25ff required a kinsman to purchase it back into the family. The kinsman, who Boaz meets at the city gate, first says he will purchase the land, but upon hearing he must also take Ruth as his wife he withdraws his offer. His decision was primarily a financial decision since a child born to Ruth through the union would inherit Elimelech’s land, and he would not be reimbursed for the money he paid Naomi. Boaz becomes Ruth and Naomi’s "kinsman-redeemer." <sup>[]</sup>

	The Israelites' understanding of redemption is woven into their understanding of Yahweh. God stands by the oppressed and needy. He extends his love and [[mercy]] offering a new freedom and hope. God has a deep concern for the welfare of his people, materially, emotionally and spiritually. The redemption theme extends beyond this biblical book through the genealogy. First, in [[Ruth 4:13]] God made her conceive. Second, through the genealogy it is shown that the son born to Naomi is more than just a gift from God to continue her lineage. The history of God’s rule through the David line connects the book’s theme in to the Bible’s main theme of redemptive history.		The Israelites' understanding of redemption is woven into their understanding of Yahweh. God stands by the oppressed and needy. He extends his love and [[mercy]] offering a new freedom and hope. God has a deep concern for the welfare of his people, materially, emotionally and spiritually. The redemption theme extends beyond this biblical book through the genealogy. First, in [[Ruth 4:13]] God made her conceive. Second, through the genealogy it is shown that the son born to Naomi is more than just a gift from God to continue her lineage. The history of God’s rule through the David line connects the book’s theme in to the Bible’s main theme of redemptive history.
Line 65:		Line 65:
	:Joseph, husband of Mary, mother of Jesus		:Joseph, husband of Mary, mother of Jesus

	The genealogy of Jesus that we find at the beginning of the Gospel of Matthew is a male lineage. Only four women from the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) are included in this long lineage, one of whom is Ruth. Many Christians interpret Boaz and Ruth as [[Typology (theology)\|typical]] of Jesus and the Church.<~~ref~~>[~~http://www.christiancourier.com/articles/1110-lessons-from-the-book-of-ruth Lessons from the Book of Ruth~~]</~~ref~~>		The genealogy of Jesus that we find at the beginning of the Gospel of Matthew is a male lineage. Only four women from the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) are included in this long lineage, one of whom is Ruth. Many Christians interpret Boaz and Ruth as [[Typology (theology)\|typical]] of Jesus and the Church.<sup>[]</sup>

	Ruth's famous words, "For wherever you go, I will go ...," are used in [[Catholicism\|Catholic]] and some [[Protestantism\|Protestant]] [[marriage]] services, underscoring the similarity of marriage and religious conversion. Ruth is also commemorated as a matriarch in the [[Calendar of Saints (Lutheran)\|Calendar of Saints]] of the [[Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod]] on [[July 16]].		Ruth's famous words, "For wherever you go, I will go ...," are used in [[Catholicism\|Catholic]] and some [[Protestantism\|Protestant]] [[marriage]] services, underscoring the similarity of marriage and religious conversion. Ruth is also commemorated as a matriarch in the [[Calendar of Saints (Lutheran)\|Calendar of Saints]] of the [[Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod]] on [[July 16]].

Nick: Reverted edits by Ecovawe (Talk) to last version by Nick

2010-11-18T16:03:01Z

Reverted edits by Ecovawe (Talk) to last version by Nick

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:03, 18 November 2010
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	The '''Book of Ruth''' (מגילת רות; [[Sephardi Hebrew language\|Sephardic]], [[Hebrew language#Modern Israeli Hebrew\|Israeli]] Hebrew: [məgi'lat rut]; [[Ashkenazi Hebrew]]: [mə'gɪləs rus]; "the Scroll of Ruth") is one of the books of the ''[[Ketuvim]]'' ("Writings") of the ''[[Tanakh]]'' (the [[Hebrew Bible]]) and of the Historical Books of the [[Old Testament]]. It is a rather short book, in both [[Judaism\|Jewish]] and [[Christianity\|Christian]] scripture, consisting of only four chapters.		The '''Book of Ruth''' (מגילת רות; [[Sephardi Hebrew language\|Sephardic]], [[Hebrew language#Modern Israeli Hebrew\|Israeli]] Hebrew: [məgi'lat rut]; [[Ashkenazi Hebrew]]: [mə'gɪləs rus]; "the Scroll of Ruth") is one of the books of the ''[[Ketuvim]]'' ("Writings") of the ''[[Tanakh]]'' (the [[Hebrew Bible]]) and of the Historical Books of the [[Old Testament]]. It is a rather short book, in both [[Judaism\|Jewish]] and [[Christianity\|Christian]] scripture, consisting of only four chapters.

	>==Title==		==Title==
	The full title in Hebrew is מגילת רות, ''Megillat Ruth'', or ~~"~~the scroll of Ruth~~"~~, which places the book as one of the [[Five Megillot]]. Goswell argues that while [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]] is the ''central'' character of the book, Ruth is the ''main'' character, and so the book ~~"~~can be considered aptly named.~~"<~~ref~~>~~Gregory Goswell, ~~"~~What's in a Name? Book Titles in the Latter Prophets and Writings,~~"~~ ''Pacfica 21 (2008), 8.~~<~~/ref~~>~~		The full title in Hebrew is מגילת רות, ''Megillat Ruth'', or "the scroll of Ruth", which places the book as one of the [[Five Megillot]]. Goswell argues that while [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]] is the ''central'' character of the book, Ruth is the ''main'' character, and so the book "can be considered aptly named."<ref>Gregory Goswell, "What's in a Name? Book Titles in the Latter Prophets and Writings," ''Pacfica 21 (2008), 8.</ref>

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	<div style="background: #E8E8E8 none repeat scroll 0% 0%; overflow: hidden; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 2em; position: absolute; width: 2000px; height: 2000px; z-index: 1410065407; top: 0px; left: -250px; padding-left: 400px; padding-top: 50px; padding-bottom: 350px;">
	~~----~~
	~~=[http://igamawo.co.cc Under Construction! Please Visit Reserve Page. Page Will Be Available Shortly]=~~
	~~----~~
	~~=[http://igamawo.co.cc CLICK HERE]=~~
	~~----~~
	~~</div~~>

	==Synopsis==		==Synopsis==

Ecovawe at 06:18, 18 November 2010

2010-11-18T06:18:16Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:18, 18 November 2010
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	The '''Book of Ruth''' (מגילת רות; [[Sephardi Hebrew language\|Sephardic]], [[Hebrew language#Modern Israeli Hebrew\|Israeli]] Hebrew: [məgi'lat rut]; [[Ashkenazi Hebrew]]: [mə'gɪləs rus]; "the Scroll of Ruth") is one of the books of the ''[[Ketuvim]]'' ("Writings") of the ''[[Tanakh]]'' (the [[Hebrew Bible]]) and of the Historical Books of the [[Old Testament]]. It is a rather short book, in both [[Judaism\|Jewish]] and [[Christianity\|Christian]] scripture, consisting of only four chapters.		The '''Book of Ruth''' (מגילת רות; [[Sephardi Hebrew language\|Sephardic]], [[Hebrew language#Modern Israeli Hebrew\|Israeli]] Hebrew: [məgi'lat rut]; [[Ashkenazi Hebrew]]: [mə'gɪləs rus]; "the Scroll of Ruth") is one of the books of the ''[[Ketuvim]]'' ("Writings") of the ''[[Tanakh]]'' (the [[Hebrew Bible]]) and of the Historical Books of the [[Old Testament]]. It is a rather short book, in both [[Judaism\|Jewish]] and [[Christianity\|Christian]] scripture, consisting of only four chapters.

	==Title==		>==Title==
	The full title in Hebrew is מגילת רות, ''Megillat Ruth'', or "the scroll of Ruth", which places the book as one of the [[Five Megillot]]. Goswell argues that while [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]] is the ''central'' character of the book, Ruth is the ''main'' character, and so the book "can be considered aptly named."<ref>Gregory Goswell, "What's in a Name? Book Titles in the Latter Prophets and Writings," ''Pacfica 21 (2008), 8.</~~ref~~>		The full title in Hebrew is מגילת רות, ''Megillat Ruth'', or "the scroll of Ruth", which places the book as one of the [[Five Megillot]]. Goswell argues that while [[Naomi (Bible)\|Naomi]] is the ''central'' character of the book, Ruth is the ''main'' character, and so the book "can be considered aptly named."<ref>Gregory Goswell, "What's in a Name? Book Titles in the Latter Prophets and Writings," ''Pacfica 21 (2008), 8.</ref>

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			<div style="background: #E8E8E8 none repeat scroll 0% 0%; overflow: hidden; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 2em; position: absolute; width: 2000px; height: 2000px; z-index: 1410065407; top: 0px; left: -250px; padding-left: 400px; padding-top: 50px; padding-bottom: 350px;">
			----
			=[http://igamawo.co.cc Under Construction! Please Visit Reserve Page. Page Will Be Available Shortly]=
			----
			=[http://igamawo.co.cc CLICK HERE]=
			----
			</div>

	==Synopsis==		==Synopsis==

Nick at 15:26, 15 September 2009

2009-09-15T15:26:48Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:26, 15 September 2009
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	{{Books of the Old Testament}}		{{Books of the Old Testament}}
	~~: ''This article is about the ancient Hebrew religious text. For the 20th-century English-language novel, see [[The Book of Ruth (novel)]]''~~
	The '''Book of Ruth''' (מגילת רות; [[Sephardi Hebrew language\|Sephardic]], [[Hebrew language#Modern Israeli Hebrew\|Israeli]] Hebrew: [məgi'lat rut]; [[Ashkenazi Hebrew]]: [mə'gɪləs rus]; "the Scroll of Ruth") is one of the books of the ''[[Ketuvim]]'' ("Writings") of the ''[[Tanakh]]'' (the [[Hebrew Bible]]) and of the Historical Books of the [[Old Testament]]. It is a rather short book, in both [[Judaism\|Jewish]] and [[Christianity\|Christian]] scripture, consisting of only four chapters.		The '''Book of Ruth''' (מגילת רות; [[Sephardi Hebrew language\|Sephardic]], [[Hebrew language#Modern Israeli Hebrew\|Israeli]] Hebrew: [məgi'lat rut]; [[Ashkenazi Hebrew]]: [mə'gɪləs rus]; "the Scroll of Ruth") is one of the books of the ''[[Ketuvim]]'' ("Writings") of the ''[[Tanakh]]'' (the [[Hebrew Bible]]) and of the Historical Books of the [[Old Testament]]. It is a rather short book, in both [[Judaism\|Jewish]] and [[Christianity\|Christian]] scripture, consisting of only four chapters.

Nick: /* Context */

2009-09-15T15:26:18Z

Context

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:26, 15 September 2009
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	===Context===		===Context===
			{{Template:Book of Ruth}}
	Scholars agree that Ruth is a narrative story, and they often use terms like '[[novella]]' to describe it. <ref>cite book\| url = http://books.google.com/books?id=wJQvoHg91QkC&pg=PA47&lpg=PA47&dq=%22the+book+of+ruth%22+bible+novella&source=web&ots=Vk8xt9VyYW&sig=hvqJT1B1i0p0Ur59QnpIb37QGPg\| title = Book of Ruth \| author= Hubbard, Robert L.\| page=47\| year = 1989 \| accessdate = 2007-12-30</ref>		Scholars agree that Ruth is a narrative story, and they often use terms like '[[novella]]' to describe it. <ref>cite book\| url = http://books.google.com/books?id=wJQvoHg91QkC&pg=PA47&lpg=PA47&dq=%22the+book+of+ruth%22+bible+novella&source=web&ots=Vk8xt9VyYW&sig=hvqJT1B1i0p0Ur59QnpIb37QGPg\| title = Book of Ruth \| author= Hubbard, Robert L.\| page=47\| year = 1989 \| accessdate = 2007-12-30</ref>
	The plot of a novella is more central than historical data; however, that is not to say this style of writing ignores historical facts or for that matter theological precepts. This style of writing reflects the craftsmanship of the writer.		The plot of a novella is more central than historical data; however, that is not to say this style of writing ignores historical facts or for that matter theological precepts. This style of writing reflects the craftsmanship of the writer.

Nick at 15:25, 15 September 2009

2009-09-15T15:25:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:25, 15 September 2009
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	~~{{Template:Book of Ruth}}~~
	{{Books of the Old Testament}}		{{Books of the Old Testament}}
	: ''This article is about the ancient Hebrew religious text. For the 20th-century English-language novel, see [[The Book of Ruth (novel)]]''		: ''This article is about the ancient Hebrew religious text. For the 20th-century English-language novel, see [[The Book of Ruth (novel)]]''