30: Ruth

How does the story of a Moabite widow illuminate the depth of God's story in the Bible? Join us as we embark on a profound exploration of the book of Ruth with our special guest, Sherie Gayle, a PhD candidate in theology and religious studies at Georgetown University. Sherie enriches our discussion with her academic insights, emphasizing the compelling roles and relationships of the women in Ruth. 

We scrutinize how the narrative challenges traditional gender roles and the significance of Ruth, an outsider, being the namesake of one of the Bible's books. This episode brings the humanity of the characters to the forefront and explores how their experiences deepen our understanding of faith and God's plan.

Topics Discussed:

• Special guest Cherie Gale and her background in theology and religious studies
• The Book of Ruth and its significance in highlighting women's roles and relationships
• The severe famine that forced an Israelite family to Moab and the ensuing trials faced by Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth
• The societal and legal hardships for women without male guardians in ancient times
• Naomi's decision to return to Judah and Ruth's unwavering loyalty, including her famous declaration of faith and loyalty to Naomi
• Ruth's and Boaz's intimate exchange, cultural and legal implications of their interaction, and the concept of the kinsman redeemer
• The tradition of levirate marriage and comparison with the story of Tamar and Judah
• Ruth's pivotal role in the lineage of King David and the Messiah, emphasizing her noble character and steadfast faith
• Cherie’s insights into the reversal of traditional gender roles and the significance of Ruth, a Moabite woman, being a namesake of one of the Bible’s books

Links:

Dr. David Pocta   
Hannah DeSouza  
Sherie Gayle
Slideshow