Who is the Real “Model Minority”? An Asian American Reading of Ruth and Ebed-Melech in the Hebrew Bible

Abstract The label of “model minority” for Asian Americans has rightly come under scrutiny due to its role in constructing a new cultural narrative that repositioned them as desirable immigrants. Among American Christians, the construct often been mirrored biblical book Ruth since she, ancient Israel’s most famous daughter-in-law, is portrayed compliant, loyal, and industrious despite being “perpetual foreigner.” Recent global developments have mounted challenge this account submissive minority.” Since Ruth’s character ambiguous (mis)used at times among Christians “biblical” example, real found Jeremiah’s portrayal Ebed-Melech. He intervenes on behalf prophet about be killed speaks truth power (Jeremiah 38). However, Ebed-Melech frequently overlooked because unfounded assumption that, black Cushite, he must slave and/or eunuch.