Quiz 74 The Book of Ruth –

Mark 8:27-35, NRSV

Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say that I am?’ And they answered him, ‘John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.’ He asked them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered him, ‘You are the Messiah.’ And he sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about him

> Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, ‘Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.’> He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it.

Deeper Dive into the Passage
**Hypothesis 1: The Messianic Secret**One hypothesis is that Mark’s Gospel emphasizes the “Messianic Secret,” where Jesus often instructs his disciples not to reveal his identity as the Messiah. This could be because Jesus wanted to avoid misunderstandings about his mission. The Jewish expectation of the Messiah was a political liberator, but Jesus’ mission was spiritual and involved suffering and sacrifice. By keeping his identity secret, Jesus could teach his disciples the true nature of his mission without the interference of popular misconceptions.

**Hypothesis 2: The Cost of Discipleship**Another hypothesis is that this passage highlights the cost of discipleship. Jesus’ call to “deny themselves and take up their cross” was radical, especially in a culture where honour and social status were highly valued. The cross was a symbol of shame and suffering, and Jesus was preparing his followers for the hardships they would face. This teaching was meant to strengthen their resolve and commitment.

**Hypothesis 3: Peter’s Misunderstanding**Peter’s rebuke of Jesus shows a common misunderstanding among the disciples. They expected a triumphant Messiah, not one who would suffer and die. Jesus’ harsh response to Peter (“Get behind me, Satan!”) underscores the importance of understanding his mission correctly. This moment serves as a turning point in Mark’s Gospel, where Jesus begins to focus more on teaching his disciples about the true nature of his mission.

**Modern Interpretation:**Today, this passage can be interpreted as a call to authentic discipleship. In a world that often values success and comfort, Jesus’ message to “take up their cross” challenges us to embrace sacrifice and service. For example, someone might choose a less lucrative career to serve others, reflecting the self-denial Jesus speaks of.

**Historical Accuracy:**The historical accuracy of this account is generally supported by scholars, though some details may be shaped by theological motives. The core elements—Jesus predicting his suffering, Peter’s confession, and the teaching on discipleship—are considered historically plausible.

Ruth 3:6-13

When Boaz had eaten and drunk, and he was in a contented mood, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then she came stealthily and uncovered his feet, and lay down.  At midnight the man was startled, and turned over, and there, lying at his feet, was a woman! He said, ‘Who are you?’ And she answered, ‘I am Ruth, your servant; spread your cloak over your servant, for you are next-of-kin.’ He said, ‘May you be blessed by the Lord, my daughter; this last instance of your loyalty is better than the first; you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, do not be afraid, I will do for you all that you ask, for all the assembly of my people know that you are a worthy woman. But now, though it is true that I am a near kinsman, there is another kinsman more closely related than I. Remain this night, and in the morning, if he will act as next-of-kin for you, good; let him do it. If he is not willing to act as next-of-kin for you, then, as the Lord lives, I will act as next-of-kin for you. Lie down until the morning.

Take a deeper dive into this passage

**Hypotheses:**

1. **Redemption and Protection:** The writer uses Boaz’s role as a redeemer to illustrate themes of protection, provision, and redemption. Boaz’s willingness to act as Ruth’s redeemer reflects God’s willingness to redeem and protect His people

2. **Social Customs:** The passage sheds light on the social customs and laws of ancient Israel, particularly the practice of levirate marriage and the role of a kinsman-redeemer. This provides insight into the social and legal structures of the time.

**Historical Context:**In ancient Israel, the role of a kinsman-redeemer was crucial for maintaining family lineage and property within the clan. The original audience would have understood the significance of Boaz’s actions and the legal and social implications of his willingness to redeem Ruth.

**Modern Interpretation:**Today, this passage can be seen as a metaphor for God’s redeeming love and care for humanity. It can inspire individuals to act with integrity and compassion, stepping in to help and protect those in need, much like Boaz did for Ruth.

**Historical Accuracy:**The customs described are consistent with what is known about ancient Israelite society. While the specific events may be stylised, they accurately reflect the social and legal practices of the time.

Ruth 1:14-18

Then they wept aloud again. Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her. So she said, “See, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law.”

But Ruth said, ‘Do not press me to leave you or to turn back from following you! Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die, I will die—there will I be buried. May the Lord do thus and so to me, and more as well, if even death parts me from you!’ When Naomi saw that she was determined to go with her, she said no more to her.”

Take a deeper dive into this passage

**Hypotheses:**

1 **Loyalty and Devotion:** The writer highlights Ruth’s extraordinary loyalty and devotion to Naomi, which serves as a model of faithfulness and love. This loyalty is not just to Naomi but also to Naomi’s God, indicating Ruth’s conversion and acceptance of the God of Israel

2**Covenant Relationship:** Ruth’s commitment can be seen as a reflection of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Just as Ruth pledges herself to Naomi, Israel is called to pledge itself to God.

**Historical Context:**In the ancient Near Eastern context, loyalty to family and kin was paramount. Ruth’s decision to leave her own people and follow Naomi would have been seen as an extraordinary act of devotion. The original audience would have been struck by Ruth’s faithfulness and the way it mirrors the ideal relationship between Israel and God.

**Modern Interpretation:**Today, Ruth’s words are often cited in wedding ceremonies to symbolize unwavering commitment and love. In a broader sense, it can inspire individuals to show loyalty and faithfulness in their relationships and commitments, whether to family, friends, or faith communities.

**Historical Accuracy:**The dialogue and events may be stylized for narrative effect, but they convey deep truths about loyalty and faithfulness that transcend historical specifics.

Ruth 4:13-22

So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When they came together, the Lord made her conceive, and she bore a son. Then the women said to Naomi, ‘Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without next-of-kin; and may his name be renowned in Israel! He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age; for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has borne him.’ Then Naomi took the child and laid him in her bosom, and became his nurse. The women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, ‘A son has been born to Naomi.’ They named him Obed; he became the father of Jesse, the father of David. Now these are the descendants of Perez: Perez became the father of Hezron, Hezron of Ram, Ram of Amminadab, Amminadab of Nahshon, Nahshon of Salmon, Salmon of Boaz, Boaz of Obed, Obed of Jesse, and Jesse of David.

Deeper Dive into the Passage

**Hypotheses:**1. **Genealogical Importance:** The writer aims to establish the genealogical link between Ruth and King David, highlighting Ruth’s significance in the lineage of Israel’s greatest king . This connection underscores God’s providence and the inclusion of a Moabite woman in the sacred lineage, which is quite radical for the time

**Divine Providence:** The passage emphasizes God’s hand in the unfolding events, showing how God works through ordinary people and situations to fulfill divine purposes. Ruth’s story is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the unexpected ways in which divine plans come to fruition.

**Historical Context:**The Book of Ruth was likely written during the post-exilic period when the Jewish community was re-establishing its identity. The inclusion of a foreigner like Ruth in the lineage of David would have been a powerful statement about inclusivity and God’s universal plan. The audience, primarily Jewish, would have found hope and reassurance in this narrative, seeing God’s faithfulness in their own lives mirrored in Ruth’s story.

**Modern Interpretation:**Today, this passage can be seen as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the unexpected ways in which God can work in our lives. For instance, in a modern context, it could be likened to how communities today are enriched by the contributions of immigrants and outsiders, showing that God’s plans often transcend human boundaries and prejudices.

**Historical Accuracy:**While the genealogical details may be historically accurate, the narrative itself serves more as a theological and moral lesson rather than a strict historical account. The emphasis is on the moral and spiritual truths conveyed through the story.