Analysis of Ruth Chapter 2
Ruth Chapter 2 is a pivotal and inspiring part of the Book of Ruth. It provides rich insights into themes such as loyalty, kindness, divine providence, and the workings of God’s grace in the everyday lives of ordinary people. The chapter introduces the character of Boaz and sets the stage for the unfolding relationship between Ruth and Boaz, which carries significant theological and moral lessons. This analysis delves deeply into these themes, examining the characters, their actions, and the broader implications for the reader.
Ruth Gleaning in the Fields of Boaz (Verses 1-3)
The chapter opens with the introduction of Boaz:
“Now Naomi had a kinsman on her husband’s side, a man of standing from the clan of Elimelek, whose name was Boaz” (Ruth 2:1).
Boaz is described as a “man of standing” which implies his wealth, social status, and moral character. The mention of Boaz at the beginning signals his importance and foreshadows the role he will play in Ruth and Naomi’s lives. His introduction also hints at the concept of the ‘kinsman-redeemer,’ which will become a crucial aspect of the narrative.
Verse 2 sees Ruth taking the initiative to support herself and Naomi:
“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.'” (Ruth 2:2).
Ruth’s offer to glean in the fields is significant. It reveals her humility and willingness to engage in menial labor to provide for her and Naomi. According to the Mosaic Law, gleaning was a provision for the poor and the foreigners (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19-22). By gleaning, Ruth is taking advantage of this provision, but she is also stepping out in faith, trusting that she will find favor in the eyes of someone who respects God’s law. Naomi’s approval of Ruth’s plan shows her trust in Ruth’s judgment and underscores the bond between them.
God’s providence is evident as Ruth ‘happens’ to glean in the field of Boaz:
“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 2:3).
The phrase “as it turned out” suggests a divine orchestration. In the narrative, what seems like a coincidence is actually a subtle indication of God’s guiding hand. Throughout the Book of Ruth, God’s presence is often seen through seemingly ordinary circumstances, showcasing how divine providence operates even in the mundane.
The Meeting Between Ruth and Boaz (Verses 4-13)
Boaz’s entrance in verse 4 is characterized by his greeting to the harvesters:
“Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters, ‘The LORD be with you!’ ‘The LORD bless you!’ they answered” (Ruth 2:4).
This exchange reflects the godly character of Boaz. His acknowledgment of the Lord in his daily interactions underscores his piety and sets a tone of respect and faith for his household. It also emphasizes the community’s shared faith, creating an environment that is conducive to understanding and fulfilling God’s laws.
Boaz notices Ruth and asks his overseer about her:
“Boaz asked the overseer of his harvesters, ‘Who does that young woman belong to?'” (Ruth 2:5).
Boaz’s query highlights his attentiveness and concern for the people who work in his fields. Upon learning that she is the Moabite who returned with Naomi, Boaz recognizes her and is quick to show kindness. His awareness of community events and the notable deeds of its members reflect his active involvement and leadership.
Boaz addresses Ruth in verses 8-9:
“So Boaz said to Ruth, ‘My daughter, listen to me. Don’t go and glean in another field and don’t go away from here. Stay here with the women who work for me. Watch the field where the men are harvesting, and follow along after the women. I have told the men not to lay a hand on you. And whenever you are thirsty, go and get a drink from the water jars the men have filled.'” (Ruth 2:8-9).
Boaz’s actions go beyond mere compliance with the law. He offers Ruth protection, a place among his workers, and access to water. This signifies his extraordinary respect for her dignity and well-being. His address, referring to Ruth as “my daughter,” implies a protective and nurturing attitude, further reflecting his godly character.
Ruth’s response in verse 10 reveals her humility and gratitude:
“At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She asked him, ‘Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?'” (Ruth 2:10).
Ruth’s bowing and words express deep humility. The acknowledgment of her foreign status underscores her awareness of the social hierarchies and the additional grace Boaz is extending to her. Her gratitude and humility contrast with any sense of entitlement, reflecting her pure and honorable character.
Boaz’s subsequent explanation in verses 11-12 includes a blessing:
“Boaz replied, ‘I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband—how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge'” (Ruth 2:11-12).
Boaz’s words acknowledge Ruth’s sacrifices and loyalty. His recognition of her deeds highlights the communal value placed on faithfulness and kindness. Boaz also invokes a blessing upon Ruth, emphasizing her decision to seek refuge under God’s wings. This metaphor suggests divine protection and care, aligning Ruth’s journey within God’s broader providential plan.
Ruth’s response in verse 13 is a mixture of gratitude and humility:
“‘May I continue to find favor in your eyes, my lord,’ she said. ‘You have put me at ease by speaking kindly to your servant—though I do not have the standing of one of your servants.'” (Ruth 2:13).
Ruth’s reaction reinforces her humility and appreciation. She acknowledges her lowly status yet gratefully accepts Boaz’s kindness. Her words reflect a desire for ongoing favor and security, which highlights her dependency on the grace and mercy of others in this foreign land.
Boaz’s Continued Kindness (Verses 14-16)
Boaz continues to show extraordinary kindness to Ruth during the mealtime:
“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” (Ruth 2:14).
By inviting Ruth to join his meal, Boaz transcends social norms, treating her not merely as a gleaner but with the respect of a guest. This act of inclusion and generosity underscores his compassionate and egalitarian character. The provision of more than enough food symbolizes abundance and blessing, contrasting Ruth’s earlier state of need.
Boaz’s instructions to his men further ensure Ruth’s well-being:
“As she got up to glean, Boaz gave orders to his men, ‘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.'” (Ruth 2:15-16).
Boaz’s directive to his men to allow Ruth to glean among the sheaves and deliberately leave extra stalks for her exemplifies unmerited favor. This action signifies grace—Ruth receives more than what the law mandates purely out of Boaz’s generous spirit. The prohibition of rebuke or reprimand protects Ruth’s dignity and ensures her work is both productive and safe.
Ruth’s Return to Naomi (Verses 17-23)
The narrative then describes Ruth’s diligent labor:
“So Ruth gleaned in the field until evening. Then she threshed the barley she had gathered, and it amounted to about an ephah” (Ruth 2:17).
Ruth’s gathering of an ephah (an estimated 20 to 30 pounds) of barley in a single day attests to her hard work and the extraordinary provision she received due to Boaz’s kindness.
Upon returning to Naomi, Ruth shares her day’s bounty and recounts her experience:
“Ruth also brought out and gave her what she had left over after she had eaten enough. Her mother-in-law asked her, ‘Where did you glean today? Where did you work? Blessed be the man who took notice of you!’ Then Ruth told her mother-in-law about the one at whose place she had been working. ‘The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz,’ she said” (Ruth 2:18-19).
Naomi’s reaction reflects her relief and gratitude, but also her recognition of God’s providential care. Her blessing of Boaz highlights the community’s practice of seeking God’s favor upon those who act kindly and justly.
Naomi then reveals Boaz’s identity as a relative and potential kinsman-redeemer:
“‘The LORD bless him!’ Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. ‘He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead.’ She added, ‘That man is our close relative; he is one of our guardian-redeemers'” (Ruth 2:20).
The concept of the kinsman-redeemer, rooted in Levitical law, involves a family member who would redeem, or buy back, a relative’s property or marry a widow to preserve the family lineage (Leviticus 25:25, Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Naomi’s statement points to a hopeful future and underscores the idea that God’s grace and provision extend through familial loyalty and responsibility.
Ruth’s continued gleanings in Boaz’s fields highlight ongoing provision and stability:
“Then Ruth the Moabite said, ‘He even said to me, “Stay with my workers until they finish harvesting all my grain.”‘ Naomi said to Ruth her daughter-in-law, ‘It will be good for you, my daughter, to go with the women who work for him, because in someone else’s field you might be harmed.’ So Ruth stayed close to the women of Boaz to glean until the barley and wheat harvests were finished. And she lived with her mother-in-law” (Ruth 2:21-23).
The closing verses emphasize safety and continued provision for Ruth and Naomi. By staying in Boaz’s fields, Ruth remains in a place of safety and grace, reaffirming the divine provision throughout their difficult circumstances. The harvest period also implies a future of abundance and sustainability.
Concluding Thoughts
Ruth Chapter 2 is a narrative rich with themes of providence, kindness, and divine orchestration. The interactions between Ruth and Boaz highlight the transformative power of grace, both human and divine. Ruth’s humility, loyalty, and hard work are met with Boaz’s generosity, protection, and respect, forming a beautiful symbiosis of godly virtues.
The chapter also explores the fundamental human need for mercy and provision through communal and familial bonds. Boaz’s role as a kinsman-redeemer introduces a redemptive theme that mirrors God’s redemptive work. The idea that ordinary actions, guided by faith and integrity, can be avenues of divine grace permeates the text, offering a timeless lesson of hope, faithfulness, and the quiet workings of God’s providence.
In sum, Ruth Chapter 2 invites readers to reflect on how acts of kindness and faithfulness, both large and small, contribute to the unfolding of God’s redemptive plans. It celebrates the human capacity for compassion and the assurance that divine grace often operates through everyday acts of love and mercy.
