Commentary on Ruth 2

Ruth 2 marks a pivotal turn in the narrative, as Ruth, a Moabite widow, goes to glean in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi. By divine providence, she “happens” upon the field of Boaz, a wealthy and honorable relative of Naomi's late husband. Boaz, hearing of Ruth's loyalty and kindness to Naomi, extends extraordinary favor and protection to her. This chapter beautifully illustrates God's providential care for the vulnerable, the importance of covenant loyalty, and the unfolding of redemption through unexpected means.

Historical context

The book of Ruth is set “in the days when the judges ruled” (Ruth 1:1), a period of moral and spiritual decline in Israel's history (roughly 1375–1050 BC). This era was characterized by political instability, social disorder, and a cyclical pattern of apostasy, oppression, and deliverance, as described in the book of Judges. Despite the chaos, Ruth presents a refreshing counter-narrative, focusing on faithfulness, kindness, and God's quiet work of redemption within a single family.

The cultural backdrop of Ruth 2 is crucial. Gleaning was a divinely ordained provision for the poor and foreigners in Israel (Lev 19:9-10; Deut 24:19-22). Farmers were commanded to leave the edges of their fields unharvested so that the needy could gather what remained. This practice was not charity in the modern sense but a right granted by God's law, reflecting His concern for the vulnerable. The concept of a “kinsman-redeemer” (Hebrew: go'el), introduced implicitly here and developed later, was also central. This relative had the responsibility to protect family land, avenge wrongs, and provide an heir for a deceased kinsman, ensuring the family line continued.

Verse by verse

• 1:

  Naomi had a relative named Boaz, a wealthy and influential man from the clan of Elimelech. This verse introduces Boaz, not just as a relative, but as a man of considerable standing and wealth (Hebrew: gibbor chayil, “mighty man of wealth” or “man of valor”). This detail immediately signals his potential role in the unfolding story, connecting him to Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech, and setting the stage for the kinsman-redeemer theme.

• 2:

  Ruth, in her practical concern for their survival, proposes gleaning in the fields. This act demonstrates her initiative, humility, and steadfast loyalty to Naomi. Her willingness to undertake such laborious and often dangerous work for their sustenance underscores her commitment to her mother-in-law, fulfilling the spirit of her vow in Ruth 1:16-17.

• 3:

  Ruth’s “chance” arrival at Boaz’s field is a key moment, highlighting the theme of divine providence. The text states she “happened to come to the field belonging to Boaz.” While seemingly coincidental, the careful reader recognizes God’s hand guiding her steps, orchestrating events to bring her to the very man who could redeem her and Naomi. This is not mere luck, but God’s sovereign design at work.

• 4:

  Boaz’s greeting to his harvesters, “The LORD be with you!” and their reply, “The LORD bless you!” (Ruth 2:4), reveals a man of deep piety and integrity. This exchange paints a picture of a godly employer who fosters a respectful and God-honoring environment among his workers. It immediately establishes Boaz’s character as one who walks with God, preparing the reader for his subsequent gracious actions.

• 5:

  Boaz notices Ruth, a stranger among his workers, and inquires about her identity. This shows his attentiveness and responsibility as a landowner. His question to his foreman sets in motion the chain of events that will bring Ruth’s story to his ears and, ultimately, to his heart.

• 7:

  The foreman’s report confirms Ruth’s diligence and humility, noting that she “has been working steadily from early morning until now.” This testimony reinforces Ruth’s virtuous character, portraying her as a hard worker who is not seeking special favors but simply exercising her legal right to glean.

• 8:

  Boaz’s direct address to Ruth is filled with extraordinary kindness and protection. He tells her to stay in his field and glean among his young women, ensuring her safety and access to the best gleanings. This is far beyond the legal requirement of gleaning and demonstrates his exceptional generosity and care for her.

• 9:

  Boaz extends further protection, instructing his young men not to bother her and allowing her to drink from their water jars. This was crucial in a society where a lone foreign woman could be vulnerable to harassment. His actions are a testament to his noble character and his immediate concern for Ruth’s well-being.

• 10:

  Ruth’s humble response, falling to the ground, expresses her profound gratitude and surprise at Boaz’s undeserved kindness. She, a foreign widow, recognizes the immense favor she is receiving from a man of his standing, acknowledging her own low status and his high regard for her.

• 12:

  Boaz articulates the reason for his kindness: he has heard of her loyal devotion (Hebrew: hesed) to Naomi and prays that the Lord, under whose wings she has come for refuge, will richly reward her. This verse is central, revealing Boaz’s understanding of Ruth’s character and his recognition of God’s providential hand in her life. He sees her as one who has sought refuge under the wings of the God of Israel, a beautiful image of covenant protection and care.

• 14:

  Boaz invites Ruth to eat with him and his workers, even offering her roasted grain, a delicacy. This act of hospitality further elevates her status and provides her with nourishment and a sense of belonging. It’s another example of Boaz’s generosity extending beyond mere legal obligation, treating her as one of his own.

• 16:

  Boaz instructs his harvesters to deliberately leave extra grain for Ruth, even pulling out stalks from the bundles for her. This goes beyond the law of gleaning, which only required leaving the corners of the field. This intentional provision ensures Ruth will have abundant food, demonstrating Boaz’s active and compassionate care.

• 20:

  Naomi, upon hearing of Boaz’s kindness, blesses him and recognizes his role as a kinsman-redeemer (go'el). She exclaims, “May the LORD bless him for his kindness to the living and to the dead!” This revelation to Ruth is a crucial turning point, as Naomi understands that Boaz is not just generous, but holds the legal and familial position to restore their family line and property.

Key themes

• Divine Providence
• Covenant Loyalty (Hesed)
• Redemption and Kinsman-Redeemer
• Hospitality and Generosity
• Diligence and Humility

Application

Ruth 2 offers a profound picture of God’s providential care, often working through seemingly ordinary circumstances and the kindness of His people. We are reminded that even in seasons of scarcity or uncertainty, God is at work, orchestrating events for our good and His glory. Ruth’s diligence in gleaning, coupled with Boaz’s extraordinary generosity, illustrates how human effort and divine favor intertwine. We are called to be faithful in our responsibilities, trusting that God will meet our needs, sometimes through unexpected means.

Furthermore, this chapter challenges us to embody the kind of selfless love and generosity exemplified by Boaz. He saw a vulnerable outsider and extended protection, provision, and honor far beyond what was required. As followers of Christ, we are called to look for opportunities to show hesed—covenant loyalty and compassionate kindness—to those on the margins, reflecting the radical grace we have received in Christ. Our acts of kindness, however small, can be instruments of God’s redemptive plan, drawing others into His care and demonstrating His character.

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