Ῥούθ

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word Rhoúth, represented by G4503, is the name for Ruth, a Moabitess of Hebrew origin. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its sole usage is to identify her as a key maternal figure in the genealogy of David.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single biblical mention of G4503 occurs within the genealogy found in the Gospel of Matthew. The text establishes a direct lineage, stating, "...and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse" Matthew 1:5. In this context, Ruth serves as a vital link, identified as the mother of Obed and the wife of Booz. This placement solidifies her position as an ancestor of Jesse, and consequently, of King David.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for Ruth's place in this lineage:

• G1003 Boóz: This is the name for Booz, an Israelite, who is identified as the father of Ruth's son, Obed Matthew 1:5.
• G5601 Ōbḗd: The name for Obed, an Israelite, who is explicitly identified as the son of Booz and Ruth Matthew 1:5.
• G2421 Iessaí: The name for Jessæ (i.e. Jishai), an Israelite, who is the son of Obed and grandson of Ruth Matthew 1:5.
• G1080 gennáō: This word, meaning to procreate or beget, is the verb used to construct the entire genealogical chain, connecting each generation, including the line from Booz and Ruth to Obed Matthew 1:5.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G4503 is derived entirely from its inclusion in this significant lineage.

• Genealogical Importance: As a Moabitess, her inclusion in the ancestry is notable. She is named alongside G4477 Rhacháb, a Canaanitess, highlighting the presence of non-Israelite women in the line leading to David Matthew 1:5.
• Maternal Ancestor: The phrase "of Ruth" in Matthew 1:5 explicitly credits her with the continuation of the line through her son, Obed.
• Connection to Royalty: Through her son Obed and grandson Jesse, Ruth is firmly established as a direct ancestor of David the king Matthew 1:5-6.

Summary

In summary, while the name G4503 Rhoúth is mentioned only once, its placement is of great importance. It serves not as a concept, but as the identifier for a specific historical person. Her inclusion in Matthew's genealogy cements her role as a crucial maternal figure in the lineage of King David, demonstrating how a single mention can carry significant genealogical and theological weight.