God's Blessing

Ruth 2 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

1 Now Naomi had a relative of her husband’s, a worthy man of the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz.
2 And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go to the field and glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find favor.” And she said to her, “Go, my daughter.”
3 So she set out and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers, and she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the clan of Elimelech.
4 And behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem. And he said to the reapers, “The Lord be with you!” And they answered, “The Lord bless you.”
5 Then Boaz said to his young man who was in charge of the reapers, “Whose young woman is this?”
6 And the servant who was in charge of the reapers answered, “She is the young Moabite woman, who came back with Naomi from the country of Moab.
7 And she said, ‘Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves after the reapers.’ So she came, and she has continued from early morning until now, except for a short rest.”
8 Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Now, listen, my daughter, do not go to glean in another field or leave this one, but keep close to my young women.
9 Let your eyes be on the field that they are reaping, and go after them. Have I not charged the young men not to touch you? And when you are thirsty, go to the vessels and drink what the young men have drawn.”
10 Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?”
11 But Boaz answered her, “All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me, and how you left your father and mother and your native land and came to a people that you did not know before.
12 The Lord repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!”
13 Then she said, “Let me find favor in your eyes, my lord, for you have comforted me and spoken kindly to your servant, though I am not one of your servants.”
14 And at mealtime Boaz said to her, “Come here and eat some bread and dip your morsel in the wine.” So she sat beside the reapers, and he passed to her roasted grain. And she ate until she was satisfied, and she had some left over.
15 When she rose to glean, Boaz instructed his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her.
16 And let fall some of the bundles for her to glean, and do not rebuke her.”
17 So she gleaned in the field until evening. Then she beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley.
18 She took it up and went into the city. Her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned. She also brought out and gave her what food she had left over after being satisfied.
19 And her mother-in-law said to her, “Where did you glean today? And where have you worked? Blessed be the man who took notice of you.” So she told her mother-in-law with whom she had worked and said, “The man’s name with whom I worked today is Boaz.”
20 And Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May he be blessed by the Lord, whose kindness has not forsaken the living or the dead!” Naomi also said to her, “The man is a close relative of ours, one of our redeemers.”
21 And Ruth the Moabite said, “Besides, he said to me, ‘You shall keep close by my young men until they have finished all my harvest.’”
22 And Naomi said to Ruth, her daughter-in-law, “It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young women, lest in another field you be assaulted.”
23 So she kept close to the young women of Boaz, gleaning until the end of the barley and wheat harvests. And she lived with her mother-in-law.

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The True Meaning of Ruth 2

The Book of Ruth was likely written sometime between the 6th and 4th centuries BCE, during the period of the Judges in ancient Israel. The author is unknown, but the book provides a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during a tumultuous time in Israelite history. Ruth, a Moabite woman, comes to live with her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of her husband in this chapter. Ruth, a foreigner, faces challenges, but she demonstrates her loyalty and devotion to Naomi. We also meet Boaz, a wealthy landowner who will play a crucial role in the unfolding of this narrative.

The events of this chapter foreshadow the eventual redemption of Naomi’s family line, as well as the future marriage between Ruth and Boaz, which will have significant implications for the lineage of King David, as mentioned in the Book of Matthew (1:5).

Ruth 2:1-3

Important sections in Ruth 2:1-3 provide insight into the characters and events unfolding in the book of Ruth. Boaz, a man of standing who is related to Elimelek, Naomi’s deceased husband, is introduced to us in verse 1. Boaz is described as a wealthy and influential man, embodying qualities of strength and honor. This introduction of Boaz sets the stage for the role he will play in the lives of Ruth and Naomi. Boaz’s lineage is important as it connects him to the broader narrative of God’s people. Boaz’s lineage can be traced back to Judah, the fourth son of Jacob, through Perez (Judah’s son) and Tamar (Perez’s mother). This ancestry is significant as it emphasizes the divine plan woven throughout history, linking Boaz to the ancestry of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ. Boaz’s noble character and lineage foreshadow his role as a redeemer in Ruth’s story, mirroring Christ’s redemptive work for all believers. Ruth expresses her desire to go and glean in the fields in verse 2. Gleaning was a provision in the Mosaic Law for the poor and foreigners, allowing them to gather leftover crops after the harvest. Ruth’s decision to glean demonstrates her humility, diligence, and commitment to provide for herself and Naomi. It also reveals her faith and trust in God’s provision, as she steps out in obedience to fulfill her responsibilities. Ruth’s faithfulness and hard work shine through in this simple act of gleaning, showcasing her resilience in the face of adversity. This act of gleaning also aligns with biblical principles of caring for the marginalized and vulnerable, reflecting God’s heart for the poor and needy (Leviticus 19:9-10). Ruth finds herself gleaning in the field belonging to Boaz in verse 3. This encounter sets the stage for the unfolding relationship between Ruth and Boaz. Boaz’s compassion and generosity towards Ruth are evident as he takes notice of her and inquires about her identity. Boaz’s kindness towards Ruth goes beyond the requirements of the law, reflecting his character as a man of integrity and compassion. The providential meeting between Ruth and Boaz hints at God’s unseen hand orchestrating events for His divine purpose. This meeting also highlights the theme of God’s providence and sovereignty, showing how He works through ordinary circumstances to accomplish His extraordinary plans. Just like in the story of Joseph in Genesis, where God orchestrated events for the greater good (Genesis 50:20), God is at work behind the scenes in Ruth’s story, guiding and directing the steps of Ruth and Boaz for His redemptive purposes. Ruth 2:1-3 sets the stage for a beautiful narrative of redemption, highlighting themes of faith, provision, compassion, and God’s providence. Boaz and Ruth emerge as central figures whose actions and qualities reflect timeless truths about God’s character and His work in the lives of His people. Their story underscores the importance of faithfulness, kindness, and trust in God’s plan, reminding readers of the ultimate Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who offers redemption and hope to all who believe.

Ruth 2:4-7

Ruth and Boaz interact in Ruth 2:4-7. Identify the subject: “We”

“We will break down these verses into important sections and delve into their meanings.”

First, Ruth enters the field behind the harvesters to glean the leftover grain. This act of gleaning was a provision set by God in the Old Testament for the poor and foreigners like Ruth to have food (Leviticus 19:9-10). Ruth humbly puts herself in a position of need, willing to work hard for her and Naomi’s survival.

Next, we are introduced to Boaz in verse 4 as the master of the field and a relative of Naomi’s late husband, Elimelech. Boaz’s relationship to Naomi’s family is significant because he is a kinsman-redeemer according to Jewish custom (Leviticus 25:25). Boaz, as a kinsman-redeemer, had a responsibility to care for the welfare of his extended family. This foreshadows the role Boaz will play in later chapters as he becomes Ruth and Naomi’s redeemer, offering them protection and provision.

Boaz notices Ruth gleaning in the field and inquires about her to his overseer. The overseer praises Ruth for her humility and hard work and explains to Boaz that she is the Moabite woman who returned with Naomi, highlighting Ruth’s loyalty to her mother-in-law despite her origins as a foreigner. Ruth’s commitment to Naomi echoes themes of loyalty and faithfulness seen throughout the Bible, reminding us of the importance of caring for one another, especially the marginalized and vulnerable in society.

Lastly, Boaz approaches Ruth directly and speaks kindly to her, encouraging her to stay in his fields for gleaning and ensuring her safety among his workers. Boaz’s compassion towards Ruth exemplifies the biblical values of kindness, generosity, and hospitality (Hebrews 13:2). This interaction sets the stage for the developing relationship between Ruth and Boaz, laying the foundation for their eventual marriage and the continuation of Naomi’s family line through them. Ruth 2:4-7 portrays themes of provision, redemption, loyalty, and compassion that are foundational to the Bible’s message. It emphasizes God’s care for the needy, the importance of familial relationships, and the virtues of faithfulness and generosity. The characters of Ruth and Boaz exemplify these virtues, setting an example for us to follow in our own lives as we interact with others in need.

Ruth 2:8-13

Ruth 2:8-13 reveals a rich and significant passage that provides insight into the character of Boaz and the relationship between him and Ruth. Let’s break down this verse into important sections and provide commentary on each.

  1. “Then Boaz said to Ruth, ‘Listen carefully, my daughter. Do not go to glean in another field; furthermore, do not go on from this one, but stay here with my maids.’” – Here we see Boaz’s compassion and care towards Ruth. Boaz is showing a level of kindness and protection towards her by addressing her as “my daughter”, treating her as family. Boaz goes beyond societal norms by instructing Ruth to stay in his field, ensuring her safety and provision. This act reflects the concept of kindness and provision in the Bible. Boaz’s actions can be linked to the biblical principle of caring for those less fortunate, as seen in Proverbs 31:8-9, where it says “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Boaz sets an example of practical kindness and care that should be emulated by believers.

  2. “Let your eyes be on the field which they reap, and go after them. Indeed, I have commanded the servants not to touch you. When you are thirsty, go to the water jars and drink from what the servants draw.” – Boaz not only permits Ruth to glean from his field but also provides her with protection and basic needs. Boaz ensures Ruth’s safety and dignity by instructing his servants not to harm her and allowing her to drink from their water jars. Boaz’s protective measures can be linked to the biblical principle found in Psalm 121:7-8, which says, “The Lord will keep you from all harm – He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Boaz’s actions mirror God’s care and protection for His people, emphasizing the importance of looking out for the vulnerable and demonstrating God’s love through practical actions.

  3. “Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground, and said to him, ‘Why have I found favor in your sight that you should take notice of me since I am a foreigner?’” – Ruth’s response to Boaz’s kindness is one of humility and gratitude. Ruth displays respect and acknowledges Boaz’s favor upon her by bowing to the ground. Ruth’s humility can be compared to the biblical principle found in James 4:10, which says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” Ruth’s humble attitude towards Boaz reflects her character as a woman of integrity and faith. Additionally, Ruth’s acknowledgment of her status as a foreigner highlights the theme of inclusion and acceptance in the Bible. Throughout the Bible, we see God’s heart for all nations and people, emphasizing that His love knows no bounds. The passage in Ruth 2:8-13 provides deep insights into the characters of Boaz and Ruth and exemplifies important biblical principles such as kindness, provision, protection, humility, and inclusion. The relationship between Boaz and Ruth serves as a beautiful illustration of God’s care and provision for His people, regardless of their background or status. This passage encourages believers to show compassion, kindness, and protection towards others, especially the vulnerable, and to approach God with humility and gratitude in all circumstances. It reminds us that God’s love is available to all who turn to Him in faith, just as Ruth found favor in the eyes of Boaz through her faithfulness and humility.

Ruth 2:14-16

Ruth, a Moabite woman who had returned to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law Naomi, and Boaz, a prominent and kind landowner, are engaged in a beautiful interaction unfolding in Ruth 2:14-16. The verses read: “At mealtime Boaz said to her, ‘Come over here. Have some bread and dip it in the wine vinegar.’ When she sat down with the harvesters, he offered her some roasted grain. She ate all she wanted and had some left over. Boaz gave orders to his men as she got up to glean, “Let her gather among the sheaves and don’t reprimand her.” Even pull out some stalks for her from the bundles and leave them for her to pick up, and don’t rebuke her. Let’s first delve into the significance of this encounter. Boaz’s actions towards Ruth are ones of kindness, generosity, and protection. Boaz showcases his benevolence and recognition of Ruth’s plight as a foreigner and a stranger in the land by inviting her to share in the meal with his workers, providing her with plenty to eat, and instructing his employees to intentionally leave extra grain for her to collect. This act of hospitality goes beyond mere tradition or obligation. It reflects the biblical theme of showing compassion towards the marginalized and vulnerable, as highlighted in various passages throughout the Bible, such as Deuteronomy 10:19, which instructs, “And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.”

Furthermore, the actions of Boaz towards Ruth can be viewed within the broader narrative of redemption and provision that is woven throughout the Bible. Boaz, as a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, becomes a central figure in the unfolding story of Ruth and Naomi’s redemption. His benevolence and concern for Ruth pave the way for the eventual redemption and restoration of both Ruth and Naomi’s lives. This theme of redemption through the actions of a benevolent figure is mirrored in the ultimate act of redemption through Jesus Christ in the New Testament, where through His sacrificial love, humanity finds reconciliation and salvation.

Additionally, the generosity of Boaz towards Ruth paints a picture of God’s provision and care for His people. God commands His followers to care for widows, foreigners, and the needy in the Old Testament, emphasizing the importance of kindness and compassion. This theme is echoed in passages like Psalm 146:9, which declares, “The Lord watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow. Ruth 2:14-16 captures a poignant moment of kindness, hospitality, and provision that impacts not only the immediate circumstances of Ruth and Naomi but also echoes timeless themes of redemption, compassion, and God’s faithful provision for His people. The actions of Boaz towards Ruth serve as a reminder for us to extend grace and generosity towards the marginalized and to trust in God’s providence in our own lives.

Ruth 2:17-23

Ruth returns home to her mother-in-law, Naomi, after a long day of gleaning in the fields of Boaz in Ruth 2:17-23, marking a pivotal moment in the book. Let’s break down this verse and explore its significance in the broader context of the biblical narrative. Ruth returns to Naomi with the grain she had collected throughout the day in verse 17. This act of bringing back the gleanings to Naomi not only shows Ruth’s dedication to providing for her mother-in-law but also signifies her faithfulness and commitment to their relationship. Ruth’s actions here exemplify the theme of loyalty and selflessness that runs throughout the book of Ruth. Naomi sees the generous amount of grain that Ruth has brought back and asks Ruth where she gleaned during the day, amazed. Ruth reveals that she had worked in the fields of a man named Boaz. Boaz holds a significant role in the narrative of Ruth, as he becomes not only the provider of grain for Ruth and Naomi but also a key figure in the redemption story that unfolds later in the book. Boaz’s kindness towards Ruth and Naomi sets the stage for the ultimate resolution of their hardships.

Naomi, recognizing the significance of Ruth gleaning in the fields of Boaz, immediately blesses him for his kindness and generosity towards them. Naomi’s blessing foreshadows the unfolding of God’s divine plan for Ruth and Boaz, as their relationship plays a crucial role in the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ. This illustrates a key theme in the Bible – that even in the midst of hardships and challenges, God is at work behind the scenes, orchestrating events for the good of His people. Ruth continues to work in Boaz’s fields throughout the barley and wheat harvests, showing her diligence and perseverance in the closing verses of this passage. The mention of Ruth’s continued efforts emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in the Christian walk. Ruth’s example serves as a reminder that God honors those who diligently seek Him and follow His ways. Ruth 2:17-23 highlights the themes of loyalty, provision, divine providence, and diligence. It showcases the faithfulness of Ruth, the kindness of Boaz, and the overarching sovereignty of God in directing the lives of His people. This passage, like the book of Ruth as a whole, reminds us of the power of faith, love, and obedience in the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan through seemingly ordinary events and individuals.

After Ruth 2

The young widow Ruth had shown great kindness and loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi. Together, they returned to Bethlehem, where Ruth went to work in the fields to provide for them. There, she caught the eye of Boaz, a wealthy landowner. Boaz showed Ruth favor and protection, and soon their relationship blossomed. Ruth and Boaz made a sacred promise before God as the sun set on the fields. Their union would not only bring them joy, but also restore hope and security to the family of Naomi. Little did they know, this was just the beginning of God’s plan to redeem and bless His people through their lives. The story was far from over, for the Lord had greater things in store.