Supplement to discussion in class June 13, 2011
Overview of Chapters 1.1 to 2.16
For those who want to go in depth, following the overview is a detailed verse by verse exegesis, with many helpful quotes from other sources.
Chapter 1
- Naomi is bereft of husband and children and feels the hand of God has been lifted against her. Much like Job, she does not understand why her misfortunes have befallen her, but she is clear that God has emptied her out and made her lot a bitter one. When she returns to her village of origin, her (presumably decrepit) appearance sets the village women in a panic. The question to be pondered is why does Naomi appear to be abandoned, even afflicted , by God?
- Ruth clings to Naomi and will follow her through thick and thin. The chapter does not state why, but as the book progresses, we will see the importance of Ruth’s hesed (loving-kindness) in restoring her mother-in-law’s spirit and in obtaining the help from Boaz which he should have offered immediately.
Chapter 2.1 – 2.16
- We are introduced to Boaz, who is identified in verse 1 as kin to Naomi and as a gibor chayil, a mighty man of valor. When he finds that Ruth is gleaning in his field, he offers her extra gleanings and food, and protection from the young men who might otherwise humiliate her. He offers this paltry help, even though he states that he has heard about how she has followed Naomi to this land and taken care of her. We should ponder what is wrong with this picture?
- We are reminded more than once that Ruth is a Moabite, a foreigner.
Detailed Commentary
