Evaluation
Overall Score: 9.2/10
A rich, text-focused, and deeply insightful commentary that beautifully illuminates Ruth’s narrative, theology, and pastoral power.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 320 pages
- Type
- Exegetical (Technical)
- Theo. Perspective
- Reformed
- Overall score
- 9.2 / 10
- Strength
- An exceptionally thorough and insightful exposition that blends close textual analysis with theological depth, illuminating Ruth’s narrative and its place within redemptive history.
- Limitation
- The technical detail and scholarly weight may feel demanding for users seeking a simpler or more immediately accessible guide.
Daniel I. Block’s Ruth in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the Old Testament series provides a rich, text-driven, and theologically sensitive exposition of this beloved book. As one of the finest evangelical Old Testament scholars of our day, Block brings together linguistic expertise, literary insight, and pastoral warmth. His treatment honours the narrative’s beauty, its historical context, and its theological message while remaining highly usable for preachers and teachers.
The commentary walks through each unit of the text with clarity, highlighting structure, grammar, key terms, and narrative movement. Block’s goal is to help the reader understand not only what the text says, but how it says it—revealing the artistry and theological depth embedded in the story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We value how Block combines technical skill with genuine pastoral sensitivity. His attention to Hebrew narrative, wordplay, and character development gives preachers a deeper appreciation of the text’s craftsmanship. At the same time, his exposition remains warm, clear, and spiritually compelling. He highlights the book’s themes of covenant faithfulness, loyal love, providence, and the surprising grace of God displayed in ordinary lives.
Block is especially strong in showing how the book of Ruth points forward to the redemptive purposes of God—culminating in David’s line and ultimately in Christ. Without forcing connections, he draws out the theological implications with balance and insight. His reflections on the cultural and legal background (kinsman-redeemer, gleaning laws, family loyalty) equip preachers to explain Ruth with clarity and confidence.
The commentary’s layout—combining structural analysis, exegetical detail, and pastoral reflection—makes it particularly useful for sermon preparation. It provides both the depth needed for careful study and the clarity needed for faithful communication. Block’s sensitivity to the emotional tone of the narrative, especially Naomi’s journey from emptiness to restoration, makes his work pastorally powerful.
Closing Recommendation
We warmly commend Block’s *Ruth* to pastors, teachers, and serious students of Scripture. It stands among the very best resources available on this book—deeply faithful, beautifully written, and rich in theological insight.
If you want a commentary that combines technical strength with pastoral usefulness and literary sensitivity, Block’s work is an exceptional choice.
Classification
- Level: Advanced
- Best For: Advanced students / scholars, Busy pastors
- Priority: Top choice