Now Naomi had a relative on her husband’s side, a man of standing from the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz.
And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor. ”
Naomi said to her, “Go ahead, my daughter.” So she went out, entered a field and began to glean behind the harvesters. As it turned out, she was working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelek.
- Ruth 2:1-3
The end of Ruth chapter 1 introduced the fact that the barley harvest was beginning, which is significant for where the narrative picks up here at the beginning of chapter 2.
The fact that Naomi and Ruth were both widows would have left them with no income and no means to provide for themselves. Ruth again showed her loyalty to Naomi by taking the initiative to provide for them. This is where we see Boaz introduced to the narrative.
In verse 1, Boaz is described as a “man of standing.” The Hebrew phrase used there conveys much more than that. It denotes someone of wealth, influence, and noble character. Boaz’s stature in the community is significant because it underscores his ability to act as a provider and protector in Ruth’s story as the narrative unfolds.
Boaz’s introduction in verse 1 is pivotal. As a relative of Naomi’s late husband, Elimelech, Boaz had the potential to fulfill the role of a kinsman-redeemer. The concept of the kinsman-redeemer is rooted in Leviticus 25:25-28 and Deuteronomy 25:5-10, where family members had the duty to redeem property or marry a widow to preserve the family line.
Boaz’s role as a relative is significant for several reasons. As a wealthy landowner, Boaz had the means to provide for Ruth and Naomi. His generosity extended beyond the requirements of the law, as he later instructed his workers to leave extra grain for Ruth (Ruth 2:15-16). Boaz’s position as a relative made him eligible to redeem Elimelech’s land and marry Ruth, ensuring the continuation of Naomi’s family line. This act of redemption foreshadows the ultimate redemption provided by Jesus Christ, a descendant of Boaz and Ruth. In addition, Boaz exemplified kindness, integrity, and faithfulness to God’s law. His actions demonstrate how individuals can reflect God’s character through their treatment of others.
In verse 2, Ruth offers to go pick grain for them. This concept of picking the leftover grain was called gleaning. Gleaning was an integral part of Israelite law, as outlined in Leviticus 19:9-10, Leviticus 23:22, and Deuteronomy 24:19-22. Landowners were commanded to leave the edges of their fields unharvested and not go back to collect missed sheaves, allowing the poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners to gather food. Ruth’s participation in this practice demonstrates her humility and diligence in providing for herself and Naomi. The Israelites were commanded to do this both as a way to help the poor among them and as a commemoration of God delivering them from slavery in Egypt and providing for them.
This practice reflected God’s concern for the vulnerable in society. It allowed those in need to work for their sustenance while preserving their dignity. The practice of gleaning underscores the importance of compassion and generosity. As followers of Christ, we are called to care for the marginalized and create opportunities for others to thrive. But gleaning was not just a handout; by gleaning, Ruth actively participated in her provision rather than waiting passively for help. As God worked it out, in Ruth’s case, gleaning was not just about survival but also a pathway to encountering Boaz, her future husband and kinsman-redeemer. Ordinary acts of faith and diligence can open the door to extraordinary blessings.
Verse 3 implies that Ruth just happened upon a field and began to glean there. The phrase “As it turned out” subtly hints at the divine orchestration of this fact. While the text presents Ruth’s arrival in Boaz’s field as coincidental, the original Hebrew word can also suggest an event guided by God’s providence. The narrative emphasizes that God was at work behind the scenes, directing Ruth to the right place at the right time.
This verse mentions for a second time that Boaz was from the clan of Elimelech, thus highlighting the importance of this fact. The reader begins to see God’s divine hand in the events that are unfolding. God’s providence often unfolds in the mundane details of life. Her decision to glean in Boaz’s field may have seemed inconsequential, but it was a step in God’s plan for her redemption.
Ruth’s willingness to work hard is also important to note. She does not simply sit back and wait for someone to help her but rather takes the initiative to do what she can to provide for herself and Naomi. She acts with faith and determination, and her example encourages us to trust God while actively pursuing the opportunities He places before us.
As we reflect on this passage, we should be inspired to trust in God’s providence, act with faith and diligence, and extend His love to those in need. There is no detail that is too small for God to use in His greater plan, reminding us of the incredible ways He works in our lives to accomplish His divine purposes.
This forum is meant to foster discussion and allow for differing viewpoints to be explored with equal and respectful consideration. All comments are moderated and any foul language or threatening/abusive comments will not be approved. Users who engage in threatening or abusive comments which are physically harmful in nature will be reported to the authorities.
