Ruth

The book of Ruth is a beautifully crafted short story set during the period of the judges, a turbulent era in Israel's history. Though the author remains anonymous, Jewish tradition has sometimes attributed it to the prophet Samuel. The narrative follows Naomi, an Israelite widow, and her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth, who together return to Bethlehem after loss and famine. Through the custom of kinsman-redemption, the generous landowner Boaz restores both women to security and dignity, and Ruth becomes an ancestor of King David — and ultimately of Jesus Christ.

At its heart, the book of Ruth is a story about hesed, the Hebrew word for loyal, covenant-keeping love. This theme weaves through every relationship in the narrative: Ruth's devotion to Naomi, Boaz's generosity toward both women, and above all God's quiet, providential care working behind the scenes. The book also carries a striking openness toward outsiders, showing that a foreign woman's faithfulness could place her at the very center of God's redemptive purposes. For readers today, Ruth offers profound encouragement that ordinary faithfulness, humble kindness, and trust in God's provision are never wasted.