Dr. Yael Ziegler
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The introduction to the character of Boaz highlights his relationship to Elimelekh, and the fact that he is a “Gibor chayil” – an important, moral, and...
Dr. Yael Ziegler
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Boaz’s first words in the book are “Hashem imachem” – “God be with you.” This introduction describes Boaz’s deep religious conviction. Why does Boaz...
Dr. Yael Ziegler
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Ruth goes out to find a field where she can gather grain. From Naomi’s instructions and Boaz’s reassurance the reader understands what Ruth was facing in...
Prof. Jonathan Grossman
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The chiastic structure of the Book of Esther serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it highlights the reversal of the events: Haman's plan to exterminate the...
Prof. Jonathan Grossman
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The story of Esther could begin with Haman's edict in chapter 3; the decision to begin the story with Ahashverosh's feasts and the choosing of Esther...
Prof. Jonathan Grossman
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A close reading of the story of Ahashverosh's feasts demonstrates that the author is mocking Ahashverosh, the seemingly generous king. Vashti's refusal to...
Dr. Yael Ziegler
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A comparison of the book of Shoftim (particularly the story of the Concubine at Giv'ah) and the story of Ruth reveals that the two seem like opposing...
Dr. Yael Ziegler
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Ruth the Moabite if s descendant of Lot, who chose to separate from Abraham and move to Sodom. While he escaped the fate of Sodom, his family adopted the...
Dr. Yael Ziegler
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The Book of Ruth references the era of the Judges – but to which judge, specifically, is the book referring? Midrashic text make various suggestions (Ehud...
Dr. Yael Ziegler
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Elimelekh’s family descends to Moab, and the quick deterioration until the death of Mahalon and Kilyon raises the question whether this is the punishment...
