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Ruth

Ruth in the Bible — the Moabitess (RUT 1:22). Referenced in 5 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “drunk; satisfied”

Profile

Gender
female
Scripture References
5 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
4 connections

Biography

Ruth is a female figure uniquely identified as the Moabitess, indicating her Gentile origin (RUT 1:22). She plays a significant role as a foreign woman who becomes integrated into the Israelite community through marriage and faithfulness. No specific tribal affiliation or additional notes are recorded.

Names & Titles

The name Ruth means 'friendship' or 'refreshed,' with possible connotations of being a comrade or companion, reflecting her loyal and supportive character (RUT 1:4). This proper name was not given by God but carries meaningful implications about her role and nature.

Family

Ruth was the wife of Mahlon and later of Boaz, establishing her place within the Israelite family line (RUT 1:4, RUT 4:10, RUT 4:13). She is also the daughter-in-law of Naomi (RUT 1:6) and the mother of Obed (RUT 4:13), connecting her directly to the ancestry of King David.

Significance

Ruth's story highlights God's providential inclusion of a Gentile woman into His covenant people, demonstrating the extension of divine grace beyond Israel. Her steadfast loyalty to Naomi and acceptance of the God of Israel exemplify genuine faith and covenant commitment. Through her marriage to Boaz, she becomes part of the Messianic lineage, underscoring the biblical theme of redemption and foreshadowing the church as the Bride of Christ.

Key Events

Married Mahlon in Moab(Ruth 1:4)
Death of her husband(Ruth 1:5)
Chose to follow Naomi and her God(Ruth 1:16-17)
Gleaned in Boaz's field(Ruth 2:2-3)
Married Boaz(Ruth 4:13)
Birth of Obed (David's grandfather)(Ruth 4:17)

Names & Labels (1)

Ruthproper name
Hebrew
ר֑וּת
Transliteration
rut
Meaning
friendship; refreshed [as with water]; [poss.] comrade, companion
Greek
Ρουθ
Reference
RUT 1:4
Strong's
H7327

Family & Relationships (4)

wife

Mahlon(RUT 1:4, RUT 4:10)
Boaz(RUT 4:10, RUT 4:13)

daughter-in-law

Naomi(RUT 1:6)

mother

Obed(RUT 4:13)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Ruth in the Bible?

Ruth is a female figure uniquely identified as the Moabitess, indicating her Gentile origin (RUT 1:22). She plays a significant role as a foreign woman who becomes integrated into the Israelite community through marriage and faithfulness. No specific tribal affiliation or additional notes are recorded.

What does the name Ruth mean?

The name Ruth means “drunk; satisfied” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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