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What does the Book of Ruth have to do with the Megillat Esther? Ecclesiasties? Lamentations? Song of Songs? Each of these books, found in the Tanakh (the Jewish Holy Scriptures) is read on a specific holiday. We read the Book of Esther on Purim, Ecclesiasties on Sukkot, Song of Songs on Pesach, Lamentations of Tish B’Av, and Ruth on Shavuot. The Book of Ruth tells the story of two women, Ruth the Moabite and her mother-in-law Naomi. When both are widowed, Naomi declares her intention to return to her home in Canaan and urges Ruth to return to her own parent’s home in Moab. But Ruth chooses the more difficult and noble route. She joins her fate to that of Naomi declaring, "Entreat me not to leave you… For wherever you go, I will go. Wherever you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God shall be my God." (1:16) These beautiful and poetic links identify Ruth as one of the first Jews-by-Choice. Like Abraham, the very first convert, Ruth followed her heart and conscience and became a blessing to those around her. Her actions were righteous and her character was strong. Her commitment to Naomi and the Jewish people was never in doubt. Her actions guaranteed that her offspring would be valued members of the Jewish community. In the eyes of the Jewish tradition, Ruth’s merit was such that King David proudly claimed her as his ancestor. How appropriate it is that this beautiful story is read on Shavuot, the holiday which celebrates the acceptance of Torah. We remember that the Israelites response to this great gift of God, declared "Na-aseh v’nishmah!" "We will do and we will listen!" In each generation, from Sinai to today, we reconfirm this acceptance and choose to take on this obligation. The decisions we make at key moments can influence the direction of our lives, the lives of our family, and that of the Jewish people. The courage to change is an essential element of growth. As Jewish tradition teaches us, especially during the festival of Shavuot, the reward for this courage and commitment is immeasurable.
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