Overview:

The Book of Ruth is a narrative about a family from Bethlehem during the time of the judges. The story opens with a famine, prompting Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons, Mahlon and Chilion, to leave Bethlehem and go to Moab. While in Moab, Elimelech dies, and both sons marry Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah. However, tragically, Mahlon and Chilion also die, leaving Naomi and her daughters-in-law as widows. In Ruth 1-2, Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, and Ruth chooses to go with her, making the famous declaration, "Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God" (Ruth 1:16b). The two women arrive in Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest, and Ruth goes to glean in the fields to provide food for her and Naomi.

Noteworthy elements:

1. The role of women in ancient Israelite society, particularly as widows, is highlighted.
2. The contrast between Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness and Orpah's decision to stay in Moab is emphasized.
3. The kindness and generosity of Boaz, a wealthy landowner, towards Ruth is a key theme.
4. The significance of the barley harvest and gleaning laws in the life of the community is highlighted.
5. The relationship between Naomi and Ruth, as well as Ruth's growing faith in God, are central to the narrative.

Study questions:

1. Why do you think Ruth chose to accompany Naomi to Bethlehem, leaving behind her own family and culture?
2. How does the contrast between Ruth and Orpah highlight the importance of faithfulness and loyalty in relationships?
3. What does Boaz's treatment of Ruth reveal about his character and values?
4. How do the gleaning laws in the Book of Ruth reflect God's concern for the poor and vulnerable in ancient Israel?
5. How does the relationship between Naomi and Ruth develop throughout the narrative, and what role does faith play in this development?