Shavuot 2025: Diving into the Book of Ruth, where tradition can grow

The Book of Ruth is such a book. It is a late work, though it purports to be old and tries to antiquate its terminology, it includes words unknown in First Temple times. The book itself has a perspective of looking back, the entire tale extending beyond itself, “at the time of the Judges,” only up to the birth of King David. It tells of Ruth, coming from a Moabite background to join the Jewish people who, through acts of kindness, dedication, and determination, becomes the worthy great-grandmother of King David.