Abstract

DECKER, Timothy L.. Contrastive Characterization in Ruth 1:6-22: Three Ways to Return from Exile. Old testam. essays [online]. 2019, vol.32, n.3, pp.908-935. ISSN 2312-3621.  https://doi.org/10.17159/2312-3621/2019/v32n3a8.

By using the narrative device of contrastive characterization, the author of Ruth demonstrates three return-from-exile scenarios that act as a model for the audience. Orpah served as Ruth's foil and represents a return to the pagan culture. Naomi and Ruth project a role reversal. While Naomi returns more like a pagan than a Jewess, Ruth has demonstrated covenant fidelity and illustrated loyalty to YHWH and Israel. She is thus a model for how Jews ought to return from exile to exodus.

Keywords : Contrastive Characterization; Exile; Covenant Loyalty.

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