The Institute for Bible Translation has published a translation of the Old Testament book of Ruth in the Abkhaz language. Previously, the book of Jonah (2023) and a collection of Gospel Parables (2023) had been published in Abkhaz. This edition was printed in Abkhazia’s capital city, Sukhum (a.k.a. Aqwa). 

The Abkhaz language belongs to the Abkhaz-Adyghe branch of the Northwest Caucasian language family. It is one of the official languages of Abkhazia, together with Russian, and is spoken primarily in Abkhazia and Turkey. 

The book of Ruth is one of the shortest books in the Old Testament, consisting of only four chapters. The events take place during the time of the Judges. The main character, Ruth the Moabitess, defies expectations by demonstrating loyalty to God and her mother-in-law Naomi, declaring: "Where you go I will go... Your people will be my people and your God my God" (Ruth 1:16). Ruth’s striking character is significant not only as an example of female determination and devotion but also because she becomes the great-grandmother of King David and is included in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. 

This edition features two parallel translations, Russian and English, as well as black-and-white illustrations and footnotes. 

Along with other Abkhaz Scripture portions, a digital version of Ruth is available on the IBT website.