Introduction
Author
The author of the Book of Ruth is not identified in the Book and is unknown. Many scholars believe that the prophet Samuel may have been (through inspiration) the author of Ruth.
Time of Writing
The exact time of writing is also unknown, but the events occurred during the period of the Judges (Ruth 1:1). This was prior to the period of kings over
Themes
The previous Old Testament Book, The Book of Judges relates much ungodliness, violence and cruelty of both the Israelites and their enemies. Following this, the Book of Ruth is a refreshing story of love, righteousness, kindness, compassion and redemption. The characters are real people and the events really happened. This is not an allegory, but a true story.
Study Questions on Chapter 1
1. What five things do we learn in the first verse?
2. From what tribe were Elimelech and his family?
3. Give the Hebrew meaning of the family members’ names.
a. Elimelech –
b. Naomi –
c. Mahlon –
d. Chilion –
4. Why did Elimelech leave
5. Where did Elimelech settle with his family?
6. Whom did Mahlon and Chilion marry?
7. Were these marriages sinful according to the Law of Moses?
8. How long did they stay in their new place?
9. What happened to cause Naomi to think of going back to
10. What do we learn from the text about the relationship between Naomi and her daughters-in-law?
11. What reasons did Naomi give her daughters-in-law for them to stay and remarry?
12. How does Ruth describe her commitment to Naomi?
13. What was the reaction of the people of
14. What is the meaning of the Hebrew name “Mara?”
15. Was Naomi justified in blaming God for her troubles?
16. What time of year did Ruth and Naomi come to