Five Poems and Ruth

Religions, 2024

It is easy to underestimate Ruth. The story is short and sweet, in elementary Hebrew, about a loyal and obedient daughter-in-law, or so we have been led to believe. The book and its eponymous character are surprisingly complex. Although Ruth is an exemplar of Hebrew narrative, it contains two poetic insertions in the first chapter. Literal translations lose the poetry, and poetic translations are less faithful to the original language. Ruth has been chosen for road-testing a range of hermeneutical approaches, and here is one more. This paper approaches these poetic insertions and, indeed, the book of Ruth, as poetry and explores a new method for examining and interpreting Hebrew poetic texts, namely, exegetical poetry. I pay particular attention to poetic devices—parsing for parallelism, alliteration, and other poetic elements—and explore their significance. As I translate and exegete, I compose poetry reflecting the form, content, and theological themes of the Hebrew poetry through the use of similar English devices, imagery, and mood. The result is an amalgam of showing through exegetical poetry and telling through prose commentary, enriching our understanding of the characterization of Ruth and Naomi, and the relationship between these poetic insertions and the broader narrative.

Women in Judaism a Multidisciplinary Journal, 2012

2019

Conspectus, 2010

The book of Ruth makes for many excellent expositional, narrative sermons. The theology is rich, the story is compelling, the themes are significant, and the cultural mores are fascinating. Therefore, much is gained from an intense study through Ruth. This journal article sets out to demonstrate exactly how rich and detailed this story is, as exemplified from the opening pericope of Ruth 1:1-5. Part of the exegetical task is to uncover many great morphological puns and ironic elements which are so eloquently placed within. There is also an inherent tension growing throughout the Old Testament between the dynasties of Saul and David that is partly played out in the setting of Ruth. This tension helps to express one of the primary purposes for the book of Ruth—a political advertisement for the house of David. This article will also demonstrate the necessary bridge that preachers must cross from exegesis to exposition through a suggested homiletical outline from the opening pericope.

2017

This brief introduction addresses many of the critical issues related to the Book of Ruth

Priscilla Papers, 2014

Author: Samuel C. Long Publisher: CBE International From beginning to end, the story of Ruth captures the attention of the reader. Though a story of the ebb and flow of ancient human existence—famine and death, gleaning and feasting—the story and the character of Ruth have transcended these ordinary occurrences. Ruth contains many elements that make for good story—tragedy, conflict, romance, and redemption to name a few. This gripping story causes “the emotions of the reader to fluctuate between hope and despair until the very end when what began with multiple tragedies comes to a triumphant and happy conclusion.” Perhaps the evocative nature of the story contributes to the vastly different uses of this book and the character of Ruth. Dante calls her the “gleaner-maid, meek ancestress” of David; Bunyan casts her as Christina’s youthful companion Mercy; and Milton uses Ruth as the paradigm for a virtuous young lady. Indeed, the book of Ruth continues to be one of the most beloved among the OT scriptures. In four short chapters, the author draws the reader into the ancient Israelite experience and tells a delightful story of faithfulness and redemption. When compared with OT literature containing harsh denunciations and warnings for the Israelites regarding their conduct, Ruth’s simple tale describing a time when Israelite society functioned as God intended is refreshing.

Acta Humanitatis

CRITICAL REVIEW HISTORY Księga Rut (lit. The Book of Ruth), a concise yet profound narrative within the Hebrew Bible, portrays the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman, and her journey of loyalty, redemption, and inclusion within the Jewish community. This critical review gives the thematic tapestry of the book and elucidates its relevance for individuals in their conversion to Judaism. The narrative underscores the central theme of loyalty and faithfulness, epitomized by Ruth's unwavering commitment to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Despite the challenges posed by their circumstances, Ruth's decision to stand by Naomi exemplifies the transformative power of loyalty and selfless love. Additionally, the story emphasizes themes of redemption and restoration, illustrating how Ruth's journey leads to her marriage with Boaz, an act of divine providence that rekindles hope and security in her life. Notably, Księga Rut (lit. The Book of Ruth) challenges societal norms and prejudice by portraying Ruth as a righteous and virtuous individual, defying her outsider status as a Moabite. This theme of social justice and inclusion is particularly poignant for individuals undergoing conversion, as it encourages them to embrace and contribute to the diverse tapestry of the Jewish community. Ultimately, Księga Rut (lit. The Book of Ruth) presents a mosaic of themes, including loyalty, redemption, inclusion, and the power of kindness, rendering it particularly poignant for individuals converting to Judaism. Its timeless lessons provide guidance, inspiration, and a profound understanding of the core values inherent to Judaism, fortifying the path of those seeking to become an integral part of the Jewish people and their storied history.

Journal for Semitics, 2017

The little book of Ruth is not only a literary jewel in the Old Testament, but can also, as the article argues, be understood as a model for proselytism. Ruth can be seen as "a proselyte par excellence". Jewish exegesis (Targum, Midrash and Talmud) interprets the book of Ruth in this way. But it can also be shown by exegetical insights as well as structural elements.

The book of Ruth is an unusual biblical writing for several reasons. It does not overtly claim a theological ideology or doctrine. It does not primarily promote religious rituals or laws.