Writer Deborah Rosenbloom always thought of Ruth, the heroine of Shavuot, as a woman who made good choices, was strong and fulfilled. But lately she's been rethinking this and focusing on the strange dynamics of what appears to be an unhealthy, possibly abusive, relationship between Ruth and Naomi, her mother-in-law.
The Book of Ruth is read at this time of year on the holiday of Shavuot, which highlights the themes of harvest and relationships, as does Ruth's story.
From dedicating a 160-year-old Torah scroll written in Iraq to visiting the region of the Czech Republic where their Torahs came from, local congregants celebrate their holy texts as Shavuot nears.
Sivan 16, 5773
