The story of Ruth takes place in the time of the Judges (Ruth 1:1). The book tells a simple, beautiful story, that is even more compelling because of the spiritual darkness of the times.
The last chapters of Judges describe the tragic moral and spiritual state of the Jewish people during this era. They had lost track of the Law, perverted the worship of God, and slipped into moral depravity. The Book of Ruth reminds us that even in evil times a godly life is possible. There will always be believers who love and honor God even in sin-saturated societies.
Ruth herself is also important genealogically, for she was the great-grandmother of King David. Ruth is also an important reminder that, even though through the Old Testament era the Hebrews were God’s chosen people, Gentiles like Ruth of Moab could find a personal relationship with the God of Israel.
Kinsman-Redeemer
♦ The story of Ruth also illustrates the meaning of the Hebrew word ga’al, which means to “play the part of a kinsman.” In Old Testament Law, a near relative had the right to act on behalf of a person in trouble or in danger. When persons or possessions were in the grip of a hostile power, the kinsman might act to redeem (to win release and freedom). The marriage of Boaz to Ruth involved buying back Naomi’s family land, and meant that their son would carry on Naomi’s family line. Jesus, by taking on humanity, became our near Kinsman, with the right to redeem you and me.