Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Ruth 3:1-18

Black Church Tradition Lens Reading of Ruth 3:1-18

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read the story of Ruth and Naomi in Ruth 3:1-18 as a testament to God's liberating work through the agency of marginalized individuals. Ruth, a Moabite, and Naomi, a widow, embody the resilience and strategic wisdom of those whom society often overlooks. In this passage, we see God working through Ruth's boldness and Naomi's guidance to bring about redemption and security for their family line. This highlights the divine orchestration of liberation even through the least likely of people, affirming that God's deliverance is holistic, involving spiritual, social, and economic dimensions.

Key Language Decisions

In the Hebrew, the concept of 'rest' (מָנוֹחַ, 'manoach') in verse 1 is significant, as it denotes security and peace, which aligns with our tradition's emphasis on holistic salvation. The term 'redeemer' (גֹּאֵל, 'go'el'), used to describe Boaz, has a rich semantic range, including notions of deliverance and protection, which resonate with our understanding of God as a liberator. These linguistic choices underscore the passage's themes of redemption and security, crucial in our theological framework.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike some traditions that might focus on Ruth's submission as a model for personal piety, we emphasize her agency and strategic action as a paradigm of liberation. In contrast to more individualistic readings, our tradition views this narrative through a communal lens, celebrating the collective survival and deliverance of Naomi and Ruth as a reflection of God's justice. This difference matters because it reinforces our conviction that God engages in communal liberation, not merely individual salvation.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we highlight the courage and agency of Ruth as a model for our communities today. We emphasize God's faithfulness to those on the margins and encourage congregants to see themselves in Ruth and Naomi's story, trusting that God is working for their deliverance. The community should hear a message of hope that God uses unexpected means and people to bring about justice and security. As pastors, we affirm that God's liberation includes social and economic redemption, encouraging our congregation to actively participate in God's ongoing work of justice in the world.

Cross-References: Exodus 3:7-8; Luke 4:18-19; Psalm 82:3-4; Isaiah 61:1-2; James 2:5

Doctrinal Connections: liberation; holistic salvation; deliverance; divine orchestration; empowerment of the marginalized