(Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State, 1999) Jonker, L. C.
This article shows how the investigation inco the history of origin of che text itself,
as well as the Wirkungsgeschichte thereof, can assist in decermining a possible
"direction of interpretation" in terms of which modern readers/hearers may interpret
a particular text. The point of departure is chat the Biblical text of rhe book of Ruth
was repeatedly placed into new and wider contexts. These wider contexts provide an
indication as co rhe process of continuous interpretation of this story. The task of the
modern exegete is "to tune onto the wavelength" of chis process. The process of
interpretation in modern communities of faith can be proceeded with responsibility
in this way.