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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
TRV