Facts About Ruth in the Bible

INSIDE: Discover key facts about Ruth in the Bible—her family, faith, and why her story still matters today.

Ruth is one of the most well-loved women in the Bible—and for good reason! Her story is a short one, but it’s packed with loyalty, love, and God’s amazing plan. Ruth’s life shows how God can use anyone—no matter where they come from—to be part of His big story.

Here are some key facts to help kids (and grownups!) learn about Ruth:

What does Ruth’s name mean?
Ruth’s name means friend or companion—which fits her story perfectly! She showed deep friendship and loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, even when life was hard.

Who were Ruth’s husbands?
Ruth was first married to Mahlon, one of Naomi’s sons, while living in Moab. After he died, Ruth later married Boaz, a kind and honorable man who cared for her and Naomi in Bethlehem.

• Mahlon
• Boaz

Did Ruth have any children?
Yes! Ruth had a son named Obed with Boaz. Obed became the father of Jesse, who was the father of King David. That means Ruth was King David’s great-grandmother!

Who else is in Ruth’s family?
Ruth became part of Naomi’s family when she married Mahlon. Her extended family included:

• Elimelech, her father-in-law
• Naomi, her faithful and loving mother-in-law
• Chilion, her brother-in-law
• Orpah, her sister-in-law who stayed in Moab

Even after her husband died, Ruth chose to stay with Naomi and make her family her own.

What is Ruth known for?
Ruth is known for her loyalty, courage, and faith. She left everything familiar to follow Naomi and believe in the one true God. Ruth’s faithfulness led her to become the wife of Boaz and an important part of the family line of Jesus.

Ruth is remembered for several amazing things:

• She married into a Jewish family.
• She chose to follow and serve the one true God.
• She left her home in Moab and moved to Bethlehem with Naomi.
• She married Boaz, a kind and godly man.
• She is one of the few women named in the genealogy of Jesus!

Where did Ruth live?
Ruth grew up in Moab, a land outside of Israel. After her first husband died, she moved to Bethlehem with Naomi, trusting God to provide. That big move changed her life—and history!

Where is Ruth’s story in the Bible?
Her entire story is found in the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament. It’s only four chapters long, but it’s full of important lessons about God’s faithfulness, redemption, and how He cares for those who trust Him.

Where else is Ruth mentioned?
You’ll also find Ruth in Matthew 1:5, where she’s listed in the genealogy of Jesus. Even though she wasn’t born into God’s chosen people, she became a part of His family and His amazing rescue plan.

Ruth’s story may be short, but it’s full of big truths. From her deep loyalty to her new faith in God, Ruth’s life shows how trust, courage, and kindness can change everything. She reminds us that God can use anyone—no matter where they’re from—to do something amazing.