We know the story. Naomi and her husband leave "the land" because of famine and travel to Moab. Here their two sons wed Moabite women. Naomi's husband and two sons die and she returns with Ruth, her daughter-in-law, to her old home now that the famine has passed. There is little joy in her return however. Naomi is bitter. She accepts that her fate has come from the hands of the LORD, but that offers no comfort.
Then follows the story of Ruth's relationship with Boaz, a prominent rich man who is related to Naomi. Through Naomi's tentative planning, Ruth's submissive dedication to Naomi and hard work, and Boaz's compassion - and no doubt attraction to Ruth! - Boaz agrees to marry Ruth and thereby take on the responsibility for perpetuating Naomi's family and farming it's land.
The conclusion to the book turns again to Naomi. The LORD has provided her with a kinsman-redeemer - ambigously the term in 4:14 could refer to either Boaz or his child by Ruth. Either way, Naomi's family is restored. Peaceful satisfaction awaits her in her old age.
The book concludes by placing the story as a link in genealogy which leads to King David.
What did it mean? What does it mean? Of what use is this story to us?
All points welcome, even if they appear "obvious".
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Don't despair if life seems hopeless. It will only get better, you just need to see the bad times out.
I think it means to do what you think (or know) God would want you do to in a seemingly hopeless situation. Because Ruth decided it wouldn't be right to leave her mother-in-law all alone in a time of despair, God gave her great gifts. A new husband, a new life. I think it also means not to give up on someone special to you, especially in their great time of need. God never takes away what he doesn't give back. He is loving, forgiving and understanding. But most of all, He is REAL
To me it seems like the story of God giving life in the garden of Eden, then the sin comes(Death of her family)Ruth carries her forward to her homeland, than Boaz(Christ)Saves and restores her family name.(removal of sin and the barrier to God)
Post a Comment