Bible Commentaries

Ruth

BACKGROUND

The story of Ruth belongs to the period of the judges, and provides a refreshing contrast with the low religious and moral condition of Israel pictured in Judges. It shows that simple trust in God and loving thought for others still existed in Israel. Here and there throughout the nation were people who tried to live their lives humbly and righteously before God. The story shows also that God was graciously caring for such people and was guiding everyday events for their good, and ultimately for the good of the nation.

OUTLINE

1:1-22

Ten years of hardship in Moab

2:1-4:22

Start of a new life in Israel