Bible Study
The Book of Ruth

Why Study the Book of Ruth?

The Book of Ruth, attributed to the prophet Samuel, is a small book with big lessons. It gives us:

• Cultural background from Israel’s history.

• A picture of God’s redemption plan.

• Symbolism that points to Jesus, our Kinsman-Redeemer.

• Practical examples of how believers should live faithfully.

• A prophetic glimpse of the future age described in Revelation.

For New Testament believers, Ruth is one of the most important Old Testament books because it directly connects us to Christ, our Redeemer.

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Understanding Ruth in Context

To interpret Ruth correctly, we need to look at:

1. The customs of the time – Ruth’s actions (like uncovering Boaz’s feet) were not seductive, but part of the cultural practice when seeking a Kinsman-Redeemer. Followers of Torah lived in purity and honor, not recklessness.
    

2. The historical setting – Ruth takes place during the time of the Judges, when “everyone did what was right in their own eyes.” This period was marked by a repeating cycle:

   • Israel turned away from God.

   • They were invaded and oppressed.

   • They cried out and repented.

   • God delivered them.
      

Even in this dark time, some people—like Ruth and Boaz—chose to live righteously. Their story shows us how to remain faithful in unfaithful times.
 

Key Things to Know Before Studying Ruth

1. Ruth is Read at Shavuot (Pentecost)

   • Every year, synagogues around the world read Ruth at Shavuot.

   • Shavuot is the same day in Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit was poured out.
      

2. Pentecost is One of Three Pilgrimage Feasts

   • Passover

   • Pentecost (Shavuot)

   • Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles)
      

   Note on Sukkot:

   • During this feast, Jesus was transfigured, and Moses and Elijah appeared with Him (Luke 22:39–46).

   • Sukkot also points forward to the return of the Messiah.