08 - Ruth

TLDR: In the days of the judges, a Moabite widow clings to the God of Israel and is redeemed by Boaz. Her loyalty and his kindness lead to the line of David — and of Christ.

Overarching Storyline

Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem (ch. 1). Ruth gleans in Boaz's field (ch. 2). Ruth at the threshing floor (ch. 3). Boaz redeems; Ruth and Boaz marry; Obed is born (ch. 4).

Bible Project: Ruth overview.

Pegs for Memorizing This Book

• Person: Ruth, Naomi, Boaz.
• Image: Gleaning in the field, threshing floor, redeemer.
• Number: 1 (story of one family in dark times).
• Phrase: "Your people shall be my people, and your God my God" (1:16).

Highlights

• Ruth 1:16–17 — Where you go I will go.
• Ruth 2:12 — Under whose wings you have come to take refuge.
• Ruth 4 — Redemption and the line to David.

(Link to verse entries and meditations as added.)

Before and After

• Before: Judges shows chaos; Ruth is a quiet story of faithfulness in Bethlehem.
• After: 1 Samuel introduces Samuel and Saul; Ruth's son Obed is grandfather of David.

Place in the Overarching Biblical Story

Kinsman-redeemer and the line of David. Ruth and Boaz prefigure redemption and covenant loyalty; the book ties the covenant to the house of David and thus to Christ (Matt 1:5).

Interesting Facts

• Matthew 1:5 — Ruth and Boaz in the genealogy of Jesus.
• Kinsman-redeemer — Boaz as goel; Christ as redeemer of His people.