Journal: Priscilla Papers
Volume: PP 28:4 (Autumn 2014)
Article: The Book Of Ruth As An Exemplar For Faith Communities
Author: Samuel C. Long

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PP 28:4 (Autumn 2014) p. 14

The Book Of Ruth As An Exemplar For Faith Communities

Samuel C. Long

Samuel C. Long is a PhD student at Asbury Theological Seminary in the dissertation phase of his work. His area of study is Old Testament theology and religion. Samuel is also a husband, father of two, and minister at Athens Christian Church in Lexington, KY.

From beginning to end, the story of Ruth captures the attention of the reader.1 Though a story of the ebb and fl w 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.”2 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.3 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.4

Ruth continues to challenge the faith community by holding her up as a model to be emulated. Ruth’s life, faith, and faithfulness are the standard to which believers should compare themselves. Ruth has become more than a mere figure in Israelite history. She displays characteristics that epitomize a strong, faithful, God-fearing woman. Moreover, while living in a patriarchal society, Ruth vividly embodies someone who wants to contribute to the community despite obstacles and social mores. The book confronts nationalism, racism, bigotry, prejudices, and misogyny. As such, it still has much to teach our faith communities. To such ends, this article will focus on the nature of Ruth as an example of faithfulness and acceptance.5

Hesed6—The Foundation Of C...

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