The biblical book of Ruth (traditionally read during the holiday of Shavuot) is a story about the transformation and journey Ruth makes, as she accompanies her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem, leaving behind her homeland and committing herself to belong to the Jewish people.
As we explore gratitude for the people and places we belong, let’s delve into a few Jewish texts about strangeness and belonging, and the journey between them.