Ῥούθ

Ruth

Definition

Ῥούθ (Ruth) is the Greek form of the Hebrew name רוּת (Rut), referring to the Moabite woman who is the central figure of the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, she is mentioned exclusively in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in Matthew 1:5, where she is listed as the wife of Boaz and the mother of Obed. Her inclusion highlights her role as a Gentile ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus, emphasizing themes of God's inclusive plan of redemption that extends beyond Israel. The name itself may derive from a Hebrew root meaning 'friendship' or 'companion,' reflecting her loyal character.

Biblical Usage

The word Ῥούθ is used only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 1:5, within the context of Jesus's genealogy. Its usage is purely referential, identifying a specific historical person from the Old Testament to establish the Davidic lineage of Christ. There are no other contextual uses or patterns in the New Testament; it serves as a proper noun anchoring the Messiah's ancestry to the story of Ruth and Boaz.

Etymology

The Greek Ῥούθ is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name רוּת (Rut). The Hebrew name's etymology is uncertain but is often connected to the root רְעוּת (re'ut), meaning 'friendship' or 'companionship,' which fittingly describes Ruth's loyalty to Naomi. As a proper name adopted into Greek, it underwent no semantic development; it functions solely as an identifier for the biblical character.

Semantic Range

Ruth's mention in Matthew 1:5 is theologically significant as it underscores the inclusion of Gentiles in the lineage of the Messiah, demonstrating that God's redemptive plan in Christ encompasses all nations. Her story, echoed in her single New Testament reference, highlights themes of covenant loyalty (hesed), divine providence, and the reversal of outsider status through faith and obedience. Understanding this Greek name enriches reading by connecting Jesus's genealogy directly to the Old Testament narrative of God's grace extending beyond ethnic boundaries.

In its original cultural setting, Ruth was a Moabite—a people often viewed with hostility by Israelites (Deuteronomy 23:3). Her inclusion in the Davidic line would have been startling, challenging ethnic exclusivity and highlighting that faithfulness to God and His people transcends national origin. The Greek usage in Matthew retains this cultural tension, presenting her as a pivotal figure in salvation history despite her outsider status.

No direct synonyms exist as Ῥούθ is a proper noun. For related concepts of loyalty or redemption, see: χάρις (charis, G5485) — grace; πίστις (pistis, G4102) — faith; ἐλπίς (elpis, G1680) — hope.

Word Details

Scripture References