Ruth

Ruth is the Moabite widow whose loyal love and quiet faithfulness bring her into the family line of David, revealing God’s providence toward outsiders.

Female

Old Testament

Judges

Beginner

Why Study This Person?

During a time of famine and loss, Ruth chose to remain with her mother-in-law Naomi rather than return to her own homeland (Ruth 1–4). As a Moabite who joined the people of Israel, she demonstrated loyalty and trust in the God of Israel while working faithfully to provide for Naomi. Her life provides a study in devotion, quiet faithfulness, and how everyday choices can shape a legacy that reaches far beyond a single generation.

Trace the Life of

Ruth

in Scripture

First Appearance

Ruth 1:4

Key Passage

Ruth 1:16-17

Ruth pledges loyalty to Naomi and commits herself to Naomi's people and to the God of Israel, choosing faithfulness despite an uncertain future.

Christ Connection

Ruth becomes part of the family line that leads to David and ultimately to the birth of Christ.

Final Appearance

Ruth 4:13

Ruth 2:8-12; Ruth 3:9-11; Ruth 4:13-17; Matthew 1:5

Ruth finds favor while gleaning in the fields of Boaz, who later acts as her kinsman-redeemer. Their marriage leads to the birth of Obed, placing Ruth in the family line that leads to King David and ultimately to Jesus.

Other Places in Scripture That Mention

Ruth

How to Study

This Person

As you read the passages connected to this person, look for patterns in how they respond to God and how their life fits into the larger story of Scripture.