The Book of Ruth as Social Commentary in Early Judaism

This essay argues that the Ruth narrative dates from the Second Temple period and offers a counter to more exclusivist voices such as Ezra- Nehemiah. This is not just a timeless account of loyalty, but a provocative story that provides commentary on such matters as ethnicity, acceptable marriage partners, and the vulnerability of widows in the social structure. The narrative sheds light on some of the important social debates from this period.