The Book of Ruth: Israel and the Gentiles
The Book of Ruth, nestled within the pages of the Old Testament, primarily focuses on the personal story of Ruth and Naomi, two characters whose relationship and respective journeys remain at the heart of the narrative. However, a more profound interpretation can be gleaned when considering these characters as symbolic representations of larger groups-namely, the Israelites and the Gentiles. In this broader interpretative context, Naomi (and Boaz) can be viewed as emblematic figures for Israel, while Ruth, a Moabite woman who turns to the God of Israel, perfectly symbolizes the Gentiles.
This metaphorical interpretation is illuminated by Ruth's life story and her character development throughout the narrative. Born a Moabite, Ruth begins her journey as an outsider, residing on the fringes of the Israelite community. Her position as a Moabite mirrors the outsider status often held by Gentiles within biblical narratives (with Israel as God's chosen people). Supporting this comparison is Naomi's (and Bethlehemjudah's) decision to leave the Promised Land of Israel for Moab. This can be viewed in the light of Israel's temporarily turning away from God for the sake of the Gentiles:
For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Romans 11:25
Ruth's decision to steadfastly embrace the God of Israel and pledge her loyalty to Naomi symbolizes the potential for Gentile inclusion into the Israelite community. Ruth's famous declaration in Ruth 1:16,
thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God,
speaks volumes of her commitment to not only Naomi but also the God and people of Israel.
The symbolic implications of Ruth's life choices underscore the central theme that acceptance into the community of God's chosen people, Israel, can be achieved through faith and loyalty. The Bible teaches that faith is not exclusive or confined to a specific ethnic group. As seen in Romans 10:12, For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. Ruth's story serves to reinforce this point, demonstrating that faith and commitment can bridge the gap between outsider and insider, thereby breaking down ethnic and cultural barriers.
The marriage of Ruth to Boaz, an Israelite man of considerable standing, further types Gentile inclusion. Their union is not simply a testament of personal devotion, but also represents a broader concept of God's wonderful plan for the unification between Israelites and Gentiles. Boaz's acceptance of Ruth and his willingness to take her as his wife despite her Gentile origins reflects the inclusive ethos of God's love.
This notion of inclusion is further strengthened when considering the lineage of Jesus Christ. Ruth and Boaz's union produces Obed, the grandfather of King David, thus establishing Ruth as a direct ancestor of Jesus Christ:
And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; Booz begat Obed of Ruth; Obed begat Jesse
Matthew 1:5
This verse marks Ruth as a key part of the lineage leading to Jesus, thus illustrating the universality of God's plan.
The symbolism of Ruth's story accentuates God's love, the openness of His plan for salvation, and the potential for all people, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background, to participate in God's divine narrative. As Ephesians 3:6 states,
That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel.
However, as we delve deeper into these metaphors and symbolic representations, it is imperative to maintain a balanced perspective. The Book of Ruth primarily tells the story of two individuals and their unique relationship. Its purpose is not exclusively allegorical or prophetic. Not all scholars or readers may agree with this symbolic interpretation, given the richly personal and relational aspects of the story. While the narrative may suggest broader themes, it remains fundamentally a story of steadfast loyalty, enduring love, and extraordinary faithfulness. At its core, it is a tale of two women who, despite the misfortunes dealt them, manage to find solace and hope in each other and their shared faith. Their mutual commitment, as encapsulated in Ruth's heartfelt pledge in Ruth 1:16-17, forms the emotional and spiritual backbone of the narrative.
Moreover, the Book of Ruth serves as an example of the transformative power of faith and loyalty. Through Ruth's devotion to Naomi and the God of Israel, she transitions from a bereaved widow to a respected member of the Bethlehem community and a key figure in the lineage of David and Jesus Christ. Simultaneously, Naomi, stricken with sorrow after losing her husband and sons, finds joy and renewal through Ruth's unyielding loyalty and the birth of her grandson, Obed.
While the symbolic interpretation can shed light on the broader themes of inclusion, universality of God's love, and the shared destiny of Israelites and Gentiles, it is important not to overlook the heartfelt human elements within the story. The Book of Ruth serves as a testament to personal loyalty, steadfast faith, and the power of human connection, reminding readers of the human capacity for resilience and redemption even in the face of profound loss and adversity.
As we unravel the layers of allegory and symbolism within the Book of Ruth, we should also consider the narrative's personal and relational dimensions. Not every reader may agree with the symbolic interpretation above, but the universal themes and emotional depth embedded in the story of Ruth and Naomi continue to resonate, offering a timeless lesson of faith, love, and loyalty that transcend cultural and religious boundaries.