The Book of Ruth

Review of Biblical Literature
“An indispensable distillation of Lau’s previous work on Ruth.”

“At first glance, the book of Ruth seems to be a short story about Ruth, but this commentary will change your mind. Dr. Lau convincingly demonstrates that the purpose of the book is about God’s providence and kindness that leads to the preservation of a family that produced King David. Coming from a multicultural upbringing, with years of immersing himself in the book of Ruth, Lau masterfully weaves in textual, intertextual, canonical, theological, and cultural trajectories, which results in a commentary that is academically acute, theologically sound, and pastorally accessible. I commend it for its breadth of scope, depth of insights, and the careful crafting of global and contextual interpretations that remind us that the Scripture is for the whole people of God.” 
—Chloe T. Sun, Logos Evangelical Seminary  

“Lau’s commentary on the book of Ruth is outstanding. It is comprehensive without getting bogged down in irrelevant details and does what a commentary should: explain the text. In a balanced approach, Lau expertly discusses linguistic, literary, and theological issues with clear writing and charity. His comments on honor-shame dynamics and Asian perspectives are an important contribution. I highly recommend this commentary to students, pastors, and scholars.” 
—Eric J. Tully, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

“Lau has written an extraordinary commentary, combining astute literary analysis, detailed textual notes, and significant cultural insight to illuminate the ongoing relevance of the book of Ruth. He sifts through the insights of contemporary scholarship and makes the nuances of the Hebrew text accessible to any interested reader. To all this he adds insightful observations regarding the honor-shame dynamics of this text in order to help readers enter into the text’s social world. This will take its deserved place among the very best commentaries on this book. It is a must-read for students of Hebrew narrative, pastors preaching this text, and anyone who seeks a culturally aware understanding of this beloved ancient story.” 
—Aubrey E. Buster, Wheaton College