Ruth Chapter 2 — Ruth Meets Boaz in the Harvest
Ruth goes to glean grain in the fields of Boaz, a relative of her late father-in-law, where she receives protection and abundant provisions due to her loyalty to Naomi.
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Notable Verses
Ruth 2:12
“May the LORD repay your work, and a full reward be given to you from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.”
This verse highlights Boaz's blessing upon Ruth and the theme of finding protection in God.
Ruth 2:20
“Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May he be blessed by the LORD, who has not abandoned his kindness to the living and to the dead.””
This marks Naomi's realization of God's continuing care and introduces Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer.
Chapter Summary
In Ruth Chapter 2, Ruth seeks Naomi's permission to glean in the fields during the barley harvest to provide for their needs. She ends up in the field of Boaz, a wealthy and influential relative of Naomi’s late husband, Elimelech. Upon hearing of Ruth's devotion to Naomi and her hard work, Boaz treats her with remarkable kindness. He ensures her safety among his workers, provides her with water and food, and instructs his reapers to purposefully leave extra grain for her to gather. When Ruth returns home with a large amount of barley—about an ephah—Naomi recognizes Boaz as a 'near kinsman,' one with the right to redeem their family line. Ruth continues to work in Boaz’s fields throughout the barley and wheat harvests, demonstrating her diligence and the beginning of a protective relationship for the two widows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gleaning was a practice based on Mosaic law that allowed the poor, widows, and foreigners to gather leftover grain after the primary harvest. It served as a form of social welfare to ensure the vulnerable had food.
Boaz was a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem and a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. He is described as a 'mighty man of wealth' who shows great character and kindness toward Ruth.
Ruth gathered about one ephah of barley, which is approximately 22 liters or two-thirds of a bushel. This was a significant amount for a single day of gleaning, reflecting the generosity of Boaz and his workers.
Study Note
The Hebrew phrasing suggests that while Ruth 'happened' to find Boaz's field, it was a moment of divine providence directing her path.
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