The Old Testament concept of kindness, conveyed by the Hebrew word *checed* (H2617), is deeply rooted in community and covenant. *Checed* emerges within the covenant that forms God's community, as seen in Israel, particularly when the covenant is honored, leading to positive outcomes through obedience to God. True kindness, as expressed through *checed*, goes beyond mere adherence to covenant obligations; it involves a value-added aspect, surpassing the strict requirements with good and helpful actions that exceed what God and His covenant demand. In the book of Ruth, *checed* is exemplified through Ruth's actions, which demonstrate self-sacrificial kindness and magnanimity. Her commitment to Naomi, despite the dissolution of their marriage covenant by death, reflects a covenantal relationship that she refuses to abandon, treating Naomi as family and binding herself to Israel's covenant with God. Ruth's *checed* is self-sacrificial as she relinquishes her homeland, family, customs, and potential for an easier life to care for Naomi, prioritizing her mother-in-law's well-being over her own. Her kindness is also magnanimous, going above and beyond any obligation, as she vows lifelong service to Naomi out of noble, outgoing concern, sacrificing her identity and aspirations in a time of national faithlessness during the period of the judges. Ruth's *checed* extends further as she includes Boaz in her kindness, willingly aligning herself with him despite their limited acquaintance, thus expanding her covenantal loyalty to encompass God's greater purpose. Boaz himself acknowledges that Ruth's kindness toward him surpasses her initial *checed* to Naomi, highlighting the growing scope of her lovingkindness. Her daily acts of support, such as gleaning in the fields under harsh conditions to provide for Naomi, demonstrate her faithfulness to her vows, embodying *checed* through action. Similarly, David's extension of *checed* to Mephibosheth illustrates this kindness, as he offers covenant loyalty to a potential rival despite personal risk, trusting in God to protect him from potential harm. This act of *checed* involves self-sacrificial concern, done without expectation of personal gain, only seeking satisfaction in pleasing God through faith. *Checed* parallels the New Testament concept of *agape*, both representing self-sacrificial acts of outgoing concern, often at personal cost or disadvantage. It requires significant faith to practice, as seen in Ruth and David, who act in kindness despite adverse circumstances or potential danger, relying on trust in God. This same principle of exceeding customary obligations is reflected in Jesus Christ's teachings, where He calls for forgiveness beyond normal expectations, urging His followers to go above and beyond in showing lovingkindness, even to persistent sinners. Ultimately, *checed* is an attitude of magnanimity and sacrificial willingness to be there for others beyond obligation, as demonstrated by Ruth, David, and Christ Himself. It is a call to humble oneself and prioritize others' interests, trusting that God will reward such acts of kindness in due time, as exemplified by Christ's ultimate act of *checed* toward humanity through His humility and sacrifice.

The Hebrew word *checed* (H2617) embodies a profound concept often translated as lovingkindness, kindness, mercy, or even grace. It carries a nuanced meaning of loyalty or faithfulness, reflecting a combination of love and obligation to a promise. In the context of Ruth's story, *checed* is a dominant theme, illustrating how she lives her life out of love and a sense of duty to the covenant. Her actions, marked by this steadfast loyalty, stand as a powerful example, showing up the Israelites by demonstrating the faithfulness they were meant to embody. Similarly, in the account of Rahab, this same word appears as covenant loyalty, evident in her agreement with the spies to deal kindly and uphold their bargain, showcasing her commitment to a promise despite her background. Thus, *checed* emerges as a central trait in these women's lives, highlighting their dedication to covenants and their pivotal roles in the lineage of Christ.

Ruth displays a profound quality of character described as *checed* (H2617), often translated as kindness or covenant loyalty. This attribute is evident in her actions and decisions throughout the narrative. Her choice to align herself with Boaz, an older man, over younger men who might represent self-gratification, showcases her wisdom and faithfulness. She does not prioritize physical attraction or personal gain but instead demonstrates a deep sense of responsibility and loyalty, embodying *checed* in her commitment to Naomi and her willingness to integrate into God's people. Boaz recognizes this exceptional trait in Ruth, noting that she has shown more kindness at the end than at the beginning. Her initial act of kindness was accompanying Naomi, but her greater display of *checed* comes in offering herself to Boaz, despite their age difference, as part of the redemption process. He values her for this covenant loyalty, seeing her as a virtuous woman whose character is known to all. This *checed* defines her as a gem, a person of humble, caring, and industrious nature, making her a prized individual in Boaz's eyes as he seeks to redeem her.