The Story of Ruth Ch.3-4 The Love that Healed a Nation

Rabbi Daniel Rowe

The Book of Ruth is one of the best known and best loved of all the Biblical works of the Jewish Bible. This series explores the hidden levels of depth and meaning.

The last 2 chapters involve Ruth assuming two persons in one, as she suggests marriage of herself to Boaz. It seems unclear whether this is intended to be for her own good, her own actualisation and fulfilment, or whether this is her selflessly stepping aside to be a surrogate for Naomi. A deeper look at the text suggests that in Ruth's world there is no zero sum. It is possible to fully self actualise and fully be giving to another at the same time. This radical idea is understood by Boaz, and leads to the radical transformation of the town of Bethlehem, the people of ancient Israel and ultimately leads to the full unification of Israel in preparation for the birth of their great grandchild, King David. Within this story lies the Tenach (Bible)'s insight into how subtle shifts of attitude can cascade across space and time, and bring about radical change of national unity, of our relationship with Hashem, and ability to truly receive His Torah.