The opening verse of the Book of Ruth, Ruth 1:1, sets the stage for the narrative that unfolds within this Old Testament book. It provides a glimpse into the historical context of the story and introduces the central characters whose lives are intricately woven together by fate and faith.
The verse begins by stating that the events took place during the time when the judges ruled in Israel. This period in Israel’s history was characterized by cycles of disobedience, judgment, repentance, and deliverance, as depicted in the Book of Judges. It was a tumultuous era marked by political instability, moral decline, and frequent conflicts both internally and externally.
Against this backdrop of societal upheaval, the verse highlights a specific hardship experienced by the people: a famine in the land of Bethlehemjudah. Famine was a recurring challenge in ancient agrarian societies, often resulting from factors such as drought, poor harvests, or political unrest. It brought about widespread suffering, scarcity, and desperation, forcing individuals and families to make difficult decisions to survive.
In response to the famine, a certain man from Bethlehemjudah, accompanied by his wife and two sons, decides to leave his homeland and seek refuge in the country of Moab. The decision to migrate was likely driven by the hope of finding sustenance and security in a land less affected by famine. Moab, located east of the Dead Sea, was inhabited by descendants of Lot and was known as a fertile region with agricultural resources.
The mention of Bethlehemjudah holds symbolic significance in biblical narrative, as it was the birthplace of King David, the great-grandson of Ruth, whose story unfolds in the subsequent chapters of the book. Additionally, Bethlehem later became associated with the birth of Jesus, fulfilling prophecies regarding the Messiah’s lineage.
Overall, Ruth 1:1 serves as an introduction to the themes of hardship, displacement, and providence that characterize the narrative of Ruth. It sets the stage for the journey of Naomi, her daughters-in-law Ruth and Orpah, and their experiences of loss, loyalty, and redemption in the face of adversity.