D. L. Petter - Commentary on Ruth: From The Baker Illustrated Bible Commentary

D. L. Petter

Introduction

Date and Authorship

This heart-wrenching yet refreshing story unfolds in the days when the judges ruled (1:1). This places the account chronologically somewhere between circa 1380 and 1050 BC. The book was likely composed by an unnamed author relying on oral sources at a later period in Israelite history, one that seems to coincide with David and the early monarchy (Ruth 4:7, 17). Historically, the period of the judges represents a setting when religious syncretism provoked military aggression resulting in societal unrest, a cycle that perpetuated itself until the Lord graciously intervened by raising up a judge (Judges 2). As a literary bridge, the notification in 1:1 points the reader back to the last verse in Judges, where it concludes, In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit (Judg. 21:25). It also points forward to the closing genealogy in Ruth, mentioning David (4:1822), which anticipates 12 Samuel, when kingship is formally grafted into the covenantal community. In this way Ruth functions as a literary hinge with respect to its placement in the English Bible (an arrangement based upon the Greek Septuagint).

Theological Themes

Ruth recounts the private and domestic affairs of a family of four from Bethlehem, with literary artistry full of suspense and emotion. Even the most casual reader recognizes themes of divine providence, mercy, and provision for the less privileged. An equally notable and repetitive theme concerns the idea of redemption, particularly evident in Boazs crucial role as kinsman-redeemer.

Collectively, these themes, which are communicated through speech rather than narration, unveil the main point driving the narrative. Ruth finds both a physical and spiritual home in Israel. But how can a Moabite secure a home in Israel and even be included in Davids lineage? These are pertinent questions given Deuteronomic law, which forbids Israelite associations with Moabites, a chided enemy. Moreover, how can Israels renowned king come from mixed ancestry? The book of Ruth not only lauds the Lords merciful hand of guidance on Naomi and Ruth but also addresses these intriguing questions in light of the bigger picture of Israelite history.

Commentary

The grim opening of this story grips the reader on three counts. First, it is neither a prosperous nor a fruitful time in the nations life (1:1). Second, and not unrelated, the people of Israel face famine (1:1). The fact that a famine prevails in Bethlehem, in Judahs house of bread, together with the religious crisis dominating the landscape indicates an unpleasant visitation by the Lord on the land. The Lord promised famine as one among many of his acts of judgment for covenantal waywardness (Lev. 26:1820; Deut. 28:24; Jer. 24:10; 27:813; 29:17; 34:17; 38:2; Ezek. 6:11; 7:15; 12:16). The writer now zooms in on one specific family and their attempt to deal with these circumstances. Elimelek, his wife Naomi, and their two sons Mahlon and Kilion relocate from Bethlehem to the neighboring fields of Moab in search of food. Their relocation to Moab suggests that in spite of previous tumultuous relationships between Moab and Israel (Numbers 22; 25), relative peace prevails at the time the family uproots (Judg. 3:11; 5:31). Although the stated motivation of finding food provides a logical rationale for moving, one wonders if it does not point to the fragile nature of Elimeleks faith, much like the faith of Israels patriarchs who went to Egypt in time of famine (Gen. 12:10; 26:1; 41:5457). However one interprets their journey, the family attempts to face their crisis practically by securing necessary food.