Sheffield Old Testament Guides: Ruth and Esther
Overview
In this guide, Katrina J.A. Larkin studies the only two biblical books to have been named after women and finds them refreshingly different. She surveys a rich field of new writing on Esther, and poses questions which are returning to the fore of Biblical studies: What makes a biblical text theologically valuable or dangerous, and how do our perceptions change? What is the relation between history and theology? What is the status of variant forms of the biblical tradition? How does the book achieve its literary impact? Larkin also tackles the elusive issues of the date of authorship, and the relationship between this book and Israelite law.
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Top Highlights
“First there is the theme of the rescue of Elimelech’s line.” (Page 49)
“The other major theme is that of ḥesed (1:8; 2:20; 3:10) sometimes translated as ‘lovingkindness’ and also implying steadfastness and loyalty. From its first mention by Naomi (1:8), wishing that God’s ḥesed may be shown to Ruth and Orpah, the story’s characters consistently pray for rewards for those who show ḥesed to one another (2:11–12, 20; 3:10)—and see those prayers answered. It is true that ḥesed is not specifically mentioned in the women’s praise of Yahweh for all his blessings in 4:14, but the birth of Obed is the culmination of all the rewards for which they have been wishing and working.” (Pages 49–50)
“Thus the complaints of Naomi at the beginning of the book (1:20–21) are changed into rejoicing at its end. This theme of reversal was remarked upon by Josephus (Ant. 5.9.4) who said that the book of Ruth showed how God wonderfully lifts up the lowly and brings down the proud.” (Page 49)
“It is a tribute to the author that the work is so difficult to confine to a particular era.” (Page 56)
- Title: Sheffield Old Testament Guides: Ruth and Esther
- Author: Katrina J.A. Larkin
- Publisher: Sheffield Academic Press
- Publication Date: 2000
- Pages: 103
