Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Ruth 3:1-18

Roman Catholic Lens Reading of Ruth 3:1-18

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Ruth 3:1-18 as a profound narrative of fidelity, providence, and divine orchestration within the sacramental framework of marriage. Naomi's guidance to Ruth and Ruth's subsequent actions symbolize the Church's role in guiding the faithful towards union with Christ. Boaz, as the kinsman-redeemer, prefigures Christ as our Redeemer, highlighting the covenantal love and faithfulness God extends to His people. This passage underscores the importance of familial and communal relationships as channels of God's grace, reflecting the sacramental nature of marriage within the Catholic tradition.

Key Language Decisions

In the original Hebrew, the term 'go'el' used for Boaz can mean 'redeemer' or 'kinsman-redeemer,' which is a key concept in understanding this passage sacramentally. The notion of 'rest' or 'security' that Naomi seeks for Ruth is a significant theme, reflecting the peace and fulfillment found in God's covenant. The semantic range of these terms supports the Catholic understanding of marriage as a sacrament of grace and redemption. The tradition emphasizes the relational and covenantal dimensions present in the received text.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from some Protestant interpretations that might view this narrative primarily as a moral story or historical account without sacramental overtones. We emphasize the typological reading that sees in Boaz a prefiguration of Christ, which some traditions, like certain Reformed ones, might not stress as much. The Catholic view holds that this story participates in the sacramental economy of salvation, which is a theological focus often unique to our tradition.

Pastoral Application

As we preach from this passage, we should emphasize the sacramental nature of marriage and the redemption it signifies. Highlight the role of the Church, like Naomi, in guiding us toward deeper union with Christ. Encourage the faithful to see their relationships as means through which God's grace flows, reflecting on how Boaz's actions as a kinsman-redeemer mirror Christ's love. Reinforce the communal aspect of our faith journey, reminding the congregation that, just as Ruth was integrated into the community of Israel, we are integrated into the Body of Christ. Finally, always point towards the Eucharist as the ultimate sign of Christ's covenantal love and redemption.

Cross-References: Genesis 2:24, which discusses the sacramental union of marriage; Ephesians 5:25-32, where marriage is compared to Christ's relationship with the Church; Isaiah 54:5, which speaks of God as the husband of His people; John 2:1-11, the Wedding at Cana, where Jesus elevates marriage to a sacrament; Matthew 1:1-16, highlighting the genealogy of Jesus where Ruth is mentioned

Doctrinal Connections: The sacrament of Matrimony as a means of grace; The communion of saints, as Ruth's story is part of salvation history; Christ as the ultimate Redeemer, prefigured by Boaz; Divine providence, as seen in the unfolding of God's plan through human actions; Catholic Social Teaching on the dignity of family life