Why was Ruth considered an outsider in the Old Testament?

Answer 1

Interesting question, but I would have to ask, "Considered an outsider" by whom? By readers of the Scriptures? By scholars? By the Israelites? If the latter, I think the answer is obvious: Ruth wasn't an Israelite. She was from the country of Moab and married an Israelite. In the culture-centered world of the Hebrews, where beliefs and rituals influenced one's every step, anyone coming from another culture would be considered an outsider. Fortunately for those looking for the Messiah, God--and Boaz--didn't let Ruth's outsider status prevent her from taking center stage in history.