Ruth was a Moabite woman whose faithfulness, humility, and trust in God made her one of the most beloved figures of the Old Testament. After the death of her husband, Ruth chose to remain with her widowed mother-in-law, Naomi, rather than return to her own people. In a remarkable act of loyalty, she embraced Naomi’s God and people, declaring, “Thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.”
Arriving in Bethlehem, Ruth supported Naomi through humble labor, gathering grain in the fields of Booz. Her virtue, diligence, and devotion earned the respect of those around her. In time, Booz married Ruth, and together they became the great-grandparents of King David.
Ruth’s story reveals God’s providence working through faithfulness and selfless love. As a Gentile who became part of Israel and an ancestor of the Messiah, she stands as a witness to God’s plan of salvation extending to all nations.
Ruth 1:1–18
Ruth remains faithful to Naomi and embraces the God of Israel.
Ruth 2:1–23
Ruth gleans in the fields of Booz and finds favor through her virtue.
Ruth 3:1–18
Naomi guides Ruth in seeking the protection of Booz.
Ruth 4:13–22
Ruth marries Booz and becomes an ancestor of King David.
Matthew 1:5–6
Ruth is included in the genealogy of Jesus Christ.
Patron of:
Widows, Converts, Families, Loyalty and Faithfulness
Feast Day:
Roman Martyrology – September 1 (commemoration of the Holy Foremothers of Israel)
Illustration by: Colton Rompala