The Book of Ruth holds a significant place among the Jewish festival scrolls known as the Megilloth, specifically read during the Pentecost season. This timing is not arbitrary, as the story's setting aligns with the period from the Wavesheaf Offering to the day of Pentecost, encompassing the barley and wheat harvests. Ruth and Naomi return to Israel at the start of the barley harvest, a time of intense labor involving reaping, threshing, and winnowing, as later seen with Boaz. During this fifty-day period, Ruth, a Moabite, comes from a Gentile nation into the Land of Promise, meets Boaz, and is eventually redeemed and married by him. The narrative of Ruth illustrates several key themes. It showcases mutual responsibility under the covenant through the concept of chesed, or covenant loyalty, evident in Ruth's kindness and Boaz's reciprocal favor. God's unilateral work on behalf of His people is depicted through His providence and sovereignty, orchestrating events like the famine that drives Naomi's family to Moab and their return, leading Ruth to Boaz's field by divine design. The story also hints at the giving of the Holy Spirit in type, as Boaz provides water and instruction to Ruth, symbolizing refreshment and strength for her work. Finally, Ruth's status as a foreigner, a Moabitess, underscores the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant, as she is accepted into Israel through her conversion and marriage to Boaz, becoming an ancestor of King David and ultimately of Jesus Christ.

The Book of Ruth is uniquely tied to the period of the early harvest, aligning with the count to Pentecost, a time of preparation for God's first harvest of the firstfruits. As one of the Megilloth, the five festival scrolls in the Old Testament, Ruth is specifically linked to Pentecost, offering themes and messages relevant to this season. Its narrative provides valuable insights for reflection during the fifty days leading to the Feast of Weeks. Set during the time of the judges, the story unfolds with a famine in the land, prompting Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons to leave Bethlehem for Moab. This decision reflects a lack of consideration for God's sovereignty, as Elimelech appears to act based on immediate circumstances rather than trust in divine provision. The author subtly hints at this by placing the account in a context where everyone did what was right in their own eyes, a recurring theme from the period of the judges. Naomi emerges as a central figure in the narrative, embodying endurance and character amidst trial. Despite the tragic loss of her husband and sons, she survives and returns to Bethlehem, the House of Bread, demonstrating a resolve to return to what is right. Her name, meaning pleasant, reflects her attractive personality, which engenders loyalty from her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah. Naomi's selflessness is evident as she prioritizes their welfare, urging them to return to their families in Moab for a better future, and invoking God's blessing upon them with a desire for His lovingkindness and rest to be with them. Naomi's character also reveals a practical and logical nature, as she reasons with her daughters-in-law about the impracticality of waiting for her to bear more sons. However, her perspective is not without flaws. Upon returning to Bethlehem, she expresses bitterness, believing the hand of the Lord has turned against her, viewing her afflictions as a curse rather than part of a larger divine purpose. She even renames herself Mara, meaning bitter, reflecting her perception of God's judgment in her current hardships. The Book of Ruth ultimately challenges this initial bitterness, as the unfolding story demonstrates that Naomi's assumptions about God's intentions are mistaken. Her journey serves as a reminder not to prejudge God's motives or view present difficulties as His final word. Instead, it encourages endurance and patience, recognizing that God's work often extends beyond immediate circumstances to bring about greater good. Naomi's survival and eventual restoration highlight the importance of persevering through trials during the count to Pentecost, trusting in God's ongoing involvement and providence.

In the Book of Ruth, the theme of redemption is intricately woven into the narrative, reflecting a profound journey from alienation to integration among God's people. Ruth, a Moabite woman, is consistently highlighted as a foreigner, a stranger in the land of Israel, emphasizing her distinctiveness and initial separation from the community. Despite this, the story unfolds to show her gradual acceptance and redemption through the actions of Naomi and Boaz, who exemplify care and support for the stranger among them. They guide Ruth, helping her to join the redeemed and eventually prosper within Israelite society, making her feel welcome and integrating her into God's family. The gleaning law, as referenced in Leviticus 23:22, plays a significant role in Ruth's story, providing sustenance for the poor and the stranger. Ruth, being both, benefits from this provision in Boaz's field, which serves as a means to improve her lot and change her status from outsider to one of God's people. This act of charity by Boaz reflects a broader purpose of aiding redemption, offering a hand up to those in need so they might not remain in poverty or estrangement. Boaz, in his interactions with Ruth, takes deliberate steps to draw her into the life of God's people. He instructs her to stay in his field, remain with his women, and drink from the water his servants have drawn, symbolically integrating her into his world and providing for her needs. His generosity extends to personally feeding her and ensuring she receives an abundance of grain, demonstrating his recognition of her character and potential, and his desire to bless her with plenty. In Ruth 3, the narrative deepens as Ruth, following Naomi's guidance, approaches Boaz with a bold request for redemption, not only of Elimelech's property but also of herself through marriage. Despite the age difference and societal barriers, Boaz is eager to act as her redeemer, valuing her virtuous character and covenant loyalty over material gain. His focus is on redeeming Ruth herself, rather than the land, showing a deep personal commitment to her integration and well-being. Ultimately, Boaz's actions culminate in securing Ruth as part of his life and community, reflecting a profound dedication to her redemption. His love and respect for her, evident in his willingness to do whatever it takes to have her by his side, mirror a greater desire to see her fully brought into the fold of God's people, no longer a stranger but a cherished member of the family.

The Book of Ruth, as one of the Megilloth or festival scrolls, holds a significant place due to its setting during the harvest period, from the barley harvest near Passover to the wheat harvest around Pentecost. This timing makes it thematically appropriate for this season, offering spiritual ideas and themes relevant to a Christian's journey toward harvest. A key focus within the Book of Ruth is the character of Naomi, who represents the Christian in the process of sanctification toward the Kingdom of God. Naomi's journey begins with her decision to leave Moab and return to Bethlehem, revealing her complex character. Despite her attractive personality that engenders loyalty, as seen in her daughters-in-law's reluctance to leave her, Naomi struggles with pessimism. She perceives God as her enemy, believing He has dealt bitterly with her, testified against her, and judged her harshly. This limited view of God's character and purpose shows her focus on immediate physical afflictions rather than a broader spiritual plan. Naomi's positive traits shine through in her interactions, as she invokes the Lord in blessings, wishing kindness and rest upon others, demonstrating agape love and a belief in God's willingness to work with those outside the covenant. Her rationality and concern for others are evident as she urges her daughters-in-law to return to Moab for their well-being. However, her shortcomings emerge in her bitterness and short-sightedness, failing to see beyond her trials to God's larger purpose. As the narrative progresses, Naomi's perspective shifts upon hearing of Ruth's encounter with Boaz. She quickly recognizes God's hand at work, and her bitterness dissipates, showcasing her humility and malleability. Naomi's faith, though tested, remains intact, allowing her to see God working positively in her life. By the end of the story, Naomi regains all she had lost and more, receiving blessings beyond her initial desires through the birth of Obed, highlighting God's abundant provision. Another central theme in the Book of Ruth is God's providence, often overshadowed by other elements but crucial to understanding His nature. Providence in this context encompasses God's foresight and subtle interventions to achieve His purposes. From the famine that prompts Elimelech's family to move to Moab, initiating a chain of events, to the deaths that lead Naomi to return home, God's hand is evident in orchestrating circumstances. He ensures key unions, such as Mahlon's marriage to Ruth, and guides Ruth to Boaz's field by apparent chance, which is no coincidence but a deliberate act of divine guidance. Boaz's timely presence in the field, his immediate notice of Ruth, and subsequent actions as a provider further illustrate God's providence. Even minor details, such as the near kinsman's presence at the gate, are managed by God to swiftly bring about His desired outcome. Most significantly, God grants Ruth conception, a direct intervention echoing other biblical instances of divine involvement in barrenness, underscoring His role in advancing His plan. Through the Book of Ruth, the subtle yet powerful workings of God's providence are revealed, showing how He manages events and individuals to fulfill His greater purpose, ultimately pointing to the importance of recognizing His hand in every aspect of life.

The Book of Ruth, as part of the Megilloth, corresponds with the second book of Psalms (Psalms 42-72), Psalm 147, the book of Exodus, and the season of Pentecost. This correlation highlights shared themes that emerge during the Pentecost season, focusing on spiritual preparation and harvest. In Ruth, the narrative begins with Naomi's family in self-exile in Moab due to famine, later returning to Bethlehem where Ruth accompanies her, accepting Israel's ways and making a covenant with Naomi to never leave her side. This reflects the theme of covenant prominent in the Pentecost season. Ruth's work in Boaz's field, gleaning the corners as instructed in Leviticus 23 for the poor and aliens, ties directly to the harvest imagery of Pentecost. Boaz, seeing her diligence, acts as a redeemer by purchasing her and Naomi's family property, embodying the theme of redemption. At the conclusion of the book, Ruth marries Boaz and bears a child, signifying her full acceptance into Israel and illustrating the inclusion of Gentiles, paralleling the spiritual harvest of firstfruits. This marriage and family formation through redemption align closely with the overarching themes of Pentecost, including marriage, covenant, and redemption, demonstrating how Ruth fits seamlessly into this seasonal and thematic framework.

The Book of Ruth exemplifies the Old Testament concept of kindness, known as hesed, which is deeply rooted in covenant and community. Hesed is defined as good and helpful actions that go above and beyond what God and His covenant require, reflecting a value-added aspect of kindness that exceeds mere obligation. In Ruth's story, her acts of lovingkindness demonstrate this principle through self-sacrificial and magnanimous behavior, often at personal cost or disadvantage. Ruth's hesed is first evident in her decision to remain with Naomi, her mother-in-law, despite the marriage covenant being voided by death. Though she could have returned to her own people like Orpah, Ruth chooses to maintain the familial bond, addressing Naomi as her mother and considering herself part of Naomi's covenant community. By vowing to stay with Naomi, enter Israel, and worship the true God, Ruth binds herself not only to Naomi but also to the broader covenant with God, embracing Naomi's people and God as her own. Her kindness is self-sacrificial as she gives up her family, homeland, customs, and the possibility of an easier life or remarriage to care for Naomi. From an outsider's perspective, there appears to be no advantage in her choice to accompany an older woman to a foreign land, yet Ruth sacrifices everything to maintain this relationship. Her actions are also magnanimous, going beyond what is required, as she vows lifelong service to Naomi out of noble, high-minded love and outgoing concern, far exceeding typical familial duty. The women of Bethlehem later esteem Ruth's love for Naomi as surpassing that of seven sons, indicating a perfect, complete expression of kindness in biblical terms. Ruth's hesed extends further in her daily actions, as seen when she rises early to glean in Boaz's field under the hot sun, humbling herself before the foreman and Boaz to provide food for Naomi. This fulfills her earlier vow with tangible acts of support, demonstrating love and faith in action. Her kindness grows to include Boaz, a near stranger, as she willingly offers her life to him, adding him to the sphere of her lovingkindness despite potential personal disadvantages. Boaz himself acknowledges that this act of hesed toward him exceeds even her initial kindness to Naomi. Ruth's example of hesed occurs during the time of the judges, a period of national faithlessness in Israel when everyone did what was right in their own eyes. In contrast, Ruth displays uncommon faithfulness, casting her lot with God and His people, forsaking all else out of kindness and love. Her actions, requiring exceptional faith, show that true kindness often demands stepping out in trust, even when circumstances and carnal inclinations urge self-preservation.

The Book of Ruth is one of the five festival scrolls, known as the Megilloth, alongside the Song of Songs, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, and Esther. It is thematically linked to Book Two of the Psalms, the Book of Exodus, and the Pentecost season. This connection highlights shared themes among these works, particularly those associated with Pentecost. In the Book of Ruth, the narrative centers on marriage, with Boaz redeeming Ruth and taking her as his wife, from which union descends David and ultimately a significant lineage. The story also emphasizes separation, as the family of Elimelech is separated from Judah due to famine and moves to Moab, with Naomi later bringing Ruth back to rejoin Israel and connect to this important lineage through Boaz. Additionally, the theme of redemption is prominent, as Boaz redeems Ruth, paralleling other redemptive acts within the associated texts.

The Book of Ruth is thematically linked to Book Two of the Psalms, which consists of thirty-one psalms from chapters 42 to 72, summarized in Psalm 147, and corresponds to the Pentecost season. Alongside the book of Exodus, Ruth reflects themes of law and spirit, mirroring the significance of Pentecost as a memorial of the giving of the law and the spirit. Key themes in this connection include God's covenant, particularly the intimate marriage covenant, as well as redemption and deliverance. In the narrative of Ruth, she gathers grain in the field of Boaz, who becomes a redeemer figure, paralleling the spiritual harvest and redemption tied to Pentecost. Through this union, a child is born who becomes an ancestor of David, linking directly back to the themes and authorship of Book Two of the Psalms.

The Book of Ruth, as part of the Festival Scrolls or Megilloth, holds a significant place among the sacred writings associated with the Hebrew calendar. It is linked with the season of Pentecost, occurring in late spring to early summer, and corresponds to the second book of Psalms (Psalms 42-72), the book of Exodus in the Pentateuch, and themes of marriage, law, covenant, exile, and redemption. Ruth's narrative is especially tied to Pentecost, reflecting the spiritual and thematic connections that can inspire growth during this time of year. Reading Ruth alongside Exodus and the second book of Psalms during the Pentecost season may offer valuable insights and encouragement for spiritual development.

The Book of Ruth presents a compelling narrative of virtue and loyalty through the life of Ruth, a Moabitess. Following the guidance of her mother-in-law, Naomi, Ruth approaches Boaz at night on the threshing floor, uncovering his feet and lying down beside him, an act that leads to a pivotal moment in their relationship (Ruth 3:1-7). When Boaz awakens and discovers her, Ruth identifies herself and proposes marriage, a bold move that he receives with honor rather than scandal. Boaz, a man of stature and wealth in Bethlehem, as implied in Ruth 2:1, responds with maturity, praising Ruth for her kindness in choosing him over a younger man and acknowledging her esteemed reputation for virtue among the people of Bethlehem (Ruth 3:10-11). Ruth is described as a virtuous woman, translating the Hebrew phrase 'ešet hayl, which signifies a woman of worth, strength, or noble character. This term, appearing also in Proverbs 12:4 and 31:10, underscores her as a model of excellence. Boaz's recognition of her actions as honorable reflects her positive impression on the Israelite community in a short time. Her character aligns with descriptions in Proverbs 31, such as doing good to her husband, working diligently, and speaking with wisdom and kindness (Proverbs 31:12-13, 26). Ruth's loyalty and wise words to Naomi, declaring her commitment to Naomi's people and God (Ruth 1:16), exemplify this kindness, a central theme in her story. Further connections to Proverbs 31 appear in Ruth's actions of gleaning grain and bringing food to Naomi, mirroring the virtuous wife's industriousness (Ruth 2:17-18, 3:15-17; Proverbs 31:13-14). Boaz, too, is reflected in Proverbs 31:23 as a respected figure in the city gate, where he redeems Ruth and conducts legal matters (Ruth 4). His praise of Ruth as excelling among women and his frequent address of her as "my daughter" resonate with the husband's admiration in Proverbs 31:28-29. Ruth's embodiment of covenant loyalty and virtue marks her as a worthy ancestress in the lineage of David and Jesus Christ.

The book of Ruth provides insight into the character of our Savior, particularly in His office of Judge. In Ruth 2:10-13, Boaz praises Ruth's kindness, reflected in the Hebrew word chesed, which implies covenant loyalty. Ruth demonstrated this loyalty by choosing Boaz, the near kinsman, over a younger man, adhering strictly to the covenant as a widow. Boaz reassures her, telling her not to fear, and promises to fulfill everything she requests. He further judges her as virtuous, acknowledging her righteousness. In the morning, Boaz prioritizes making Ruth his bride, reflecting a commitment to bring her into his family.

The Book of Ruth presents a profound narrative set during the spring harvest, aligning its imagery and lessons with the period of sanctification between the Wavesheaf offering and Pentecost. In this story, Boaz emerges as a kinsman-redeemer, willingly taking on the responsibility to redeem Ruth by buying back her deceased relative's land, paying off any debts, and marrying her to ensure the inheritance remains within the family. His determination and decisiveness are evident as Naomi confidently instructs Ruth to sit still, knowing Boaz will not rest until the matter is concluded. Boaz's commitment reflects a relentless resolve to fulfill his duty, paralleling the steadfast purpose of God in His redemptive work. The union of Boaz and Ruth results in the birth of Obed, whose name means servant or worshipper, symbolizing the ultimate goal of God's harvest—a new creation in His image.

Ruth, the central figure in the Old Testament book bearing her name, exemplifies a diligent worker during the harvest time. She tirelessly gleans in the fields behind the reapers to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi, ensuring they have enough to eat through the summer. As reported by Boaz' servant, she worked from morning until now, resting only briefly. Her gleaning connects directly to the Pentecost instructions in Leviticus 23:22, which allow the poor and strangers to gather crop remnants after the reapers. While gleaning, Ruth encounters Boaz, the field owner, in a choice of location that was not mere chance but divinely guided. Boaz, hailing from Bethlehem, meaning House of Bread, and whose name signifies strength, shows immediate interest in Ruth. Informed by his servant that she is a Moabitess and Naomi's daughter-in-law, Boaz grants her permission to glean with kindness. He addresses her as "my daughter," speaking in familial terms and issuing five commands for her safety and guidance. He instructs her to listen carefully, to glean only in his field, to keep her eyes on his servants, assures her of protection from his young men, and directs her to drink only the water they have drawn. Through these instructions, Boaz demonstrates his authority and care as the master of the harvest, ensuring Ruth's well-being and success in her labor.

In the book of Ruth, one of the five Megilloth Festival Scrolls associated with the Feast of Pentecost, a significant emphasis is placed on diligent effort. Ruth, as a representation of the Christian, exemplifies tireless work throughout the narrative. She is consistently engaged in labor, service, and assistance, while also demonstrating personal growth. Her dedication is frequently acknowledged, and her efforts ultimately lead to great reward. Through her hard work, Ruth marries Boaz, a kind and wealthy man representing Christ, and becomes part of a joyful, blessed family. Her story underscores the importance of persistent labor and the blessings that follow, offering a profound lesson for those preparing for God's Kingdom.

The Book of Ruth, one of the five Megilloth or Festival Scrolls, is traditionally read on Pentecost due to its events occurring during the fifty days from the wave sheaf offering near Unleavened Bread to the wheat harvest at Pentecost. The story begins near the start of the barley harvest and concludes at the end of the wheat harvest, aligning with this significant period. Though titled after Ruth, whose name appears 12 times, the narrative mentions Boaz 21 times and Naomi 19 times, suggesting a deeper focus on other characters alongside Ruth's actions. Ruth, a Moabitess and foreigner, returns from Moab with Naomi, arriving around the wave sheaf time. She encounters Boaz, a kinsman of Naomi's husband Elimelech, whose name means God-is-King. Boaz, introduced as a wealthy man from Bethlehem, soon redeems and marries Ruth, bringing the story to a happy conclusion. Ruth is depicted as a productive worker, constantly active and growing, while Boaz emerges as a central figure, providing for and protecting her during the harvest season. The narrative unfolds with Ruth gleaning in Boaz's field by chance, though the Hebrew expression emphasizes it was no accident. Boaz offers her safety and sustenance, instructing her to stay in his field, fellowship with his workers, and follow their example. He provides intimate guidance and abundant provisions, ensuring she lacks nothing throughout the harvest. Naomi confirms Boaz as the best provider and a near kinsman able to redeem Ruth, urging her to remain under his care. Boaz also acts as a righteous judge, displaying deep knowledge of Ruth's character and extending favor to her. He praises her for forsaking her homeland to join a new people, acknowledging her sacrifices and works. As a judge, he separates the wheat from the chaff during winnowing, symbolizing his decisive role in Ruth's fate. He blesses her, reassures her, and pronounces her virtuous, affirming her covenant loyalty in choosing him over others, following the law as instructed by Naomi. As a loving redeemer, Boaz demonstrates relentless determination to secure Ruth's redemption, acting with strict adherence to lawful processes. He ensures every detail is handled openly at the gate with witnesses, presenting all facts transparently. His commitment mirrors a promise that once made, will not rest until fulfilled. Boaz and Ruth eventually marry and have a son named Obed, meaning Servant of God or Worshipper of God, symbolizing the fruit of their union and the aim of the harvest of firstfruits.

The marriage of Boaz and Ruth the Moabitess serves as a profound picture of the anticipated wedding of the King of kings. Set just after Passover during the beginning of the barley harvest, following the wavesheaf offering, their story reflects the early calling of God's church in the smaller barley harvest. The book of Ruth, traditionally read during the Feast of Pentecost, carries themes that are timely and significant. Ruth converts to the true religion after her husband's death, becoming spiritually akin to the seed of Abraham through this commitment. She is also connected by marriage to Boaz, a wealthy landowner. Boaz, a righteous man in an unrighteous era, adheres to God's rules of generosity by leaving the corners of his field unharvested and instructing his reapers to drop sheaves for Ruth and other poor gleaners. Ruth seeks a field owner in whose eyes she may find grace, and Boaz, noticing her diligence and beauty, extends even greater generosity, inviting her to glean in his field and to eat and drink at his table. Through the laws of levirate marriage, Boaz redeems Ruth by buying the rights to marry her from a closer kinsman. At the end of the barley and early wheat harvest, around the time of Pentecost, Boaz marries Ruth, uniting Israelite and Gentile into one. Their union also marks them as the great-grandparents of King David and ancestors of Christ.

Kindness is a central theme throughout the story of Ruth, permeating the actions of all characters involved. God, Naomi, Ruth, Boaz, and the people of Bethlehem each display kindness, contributing to the uplifting and encouraging nature of the narrative. This virtue infuses the story with warmth, making it heartwarming and satisfying. The kindness of God flows through these individuals as they live according to His way of life, manifesting this virtue in their everyday interactions. Ruth herself is uniquely recognized in the Old Testament as a virtuous woman, with kindness highlighted as one of her defining traits. This emphasis on kindness underscores the importance of inner character over specific actions, illustrating a consistent and steadfast quality that endures regardless of circumstances or pressures.

The Book of Ruth holds a significant place in the context of Pentecost, as the Jews assigned its reading to this time due to the story's setting from the wave sheaf offering to the day of Pentecost. Naomi returned to Israel with her Moabitess daughter-in-law Ruth from Ruth's native land, where Naomi, her husband Elimelech, and their sons Mahlon and Chilion had sought refuge from famine. After the deaths of Elimelech, Mahlon, and Chilion, Ruth, driven by a deep devotion, chose to remain with Naomi, pledging her loyalty to her and to Naomi's great God. Together, they arrived in Israel at the start of the barley harvest, and Ruth labored in the fields to support them both through the 50 days leading to Pentecost. The story of Ruth, as known to her great-grandson David, reflects themes of redemption and reconciliation, showcasing her devoted and conciliatory efforts under the guidance of God's Spirit.