Best Commentaries on Ruth

Atkinson’s commentary on Ruth relies on theological themes inherent in the book, focusing on how the providence of God plays out in the book. His writing is digestible for a wide audience.

Moore’s contribution to this volume introduces readers to Ruth’s historical context and shows how Ruth relates to other Old Testament texts. Philip Johnston notes that Moore “constantly draws parallels and contrasts with Judges 17–21 at literary and theological levels, often with pithy and memorable phrases.”

Vintage Piper. This collection of sermons offers a contemporary entry point to the ancient narrative that issues in a deeper appreciation for God’s steadfast love.

Duguid’s commentary is handy for pastors seeking to help church members apply the book of Ruth to their Christian lives. Duguid does not get bogged down in details, but maintains a helpful devotional outlook.

Volume was previously published as part of the NICOT series. Mathison says, “Robert Hubbard’s commentary on Ruth is a model of how commentaries should be written. It is careful and clear. It manages to deal with both details and the big picture. This is the first commentary to which one should turn with questions about the book of Ruth. Very highly recommended.”

McKeown’s commentary on Ruth is rich. His exposition is illuminating, the biblical theological links between Ruth and Genesis are intriguing, and his theological reflections in the second half of the book provide a treasure trove of fodder for application when preaching.

Sakenfeld’s brief commentary skillfully handles the sociological and theological themes that arise in the book.

Block’s commentary is nearly a quarter century old, but it remains the standard on Judges and Ruth. Becuase it is thorough, it is a helpful beginning survey for students looking for an overview of the secondary literature on this historical book.

Bush’s volume on Ruth is extensive in its scope and detailed in its analysis. The commentary provides thorough exegesis, but it will likely come off as too technical and philosophical for the armchair theologian. A solid resource for scholars.

A major scholarly endeavor that explores all the philological and literary details pertinent to studying Ruth. Sasson is well-acquainted with the ancient Near Eastern context out of which the book of Ruth arose, so his insights are illuminating for scholars researching the text.

Nielsen is a strong writer. Her volume highlights intertextual connections, particularly similarities between Ruth and the stories of the patriarchs. Longman notes, “She finds the story of Tamar in Genesis 38 especially illuminating. She presents an interesting description of her hermeneutical theory in the introduction. The intention of Ruth is to counter a smear campaign against David that shows he is descended from a Moabite, but the book shows that this is all the will of Yahweh.”