Gleaning Hope: Ruth and Boaz's First Encounter

Ruth 2 paints a beautiful picture of God’s guidance, even in our unawareness. It's a testament to the rewards of unwavering faithfulness and humility. The generosity shown by Boaz serves as a reminder that acts of kindness can bring profound impact to those in need.

Verses 1-3: Divine Providence Leads Ruth to Boaz's Field

In her pursuit of sustenance, Ruth, unaware of his relationship to Naomi, coincidentally winds up in the field of Boaz to glean grain.

Verses 4-7: Boaz Learns about Ruth

Boaz arrives from Bethlehem and, observing the unfamiliar face of Ruth in his field, inquires about her. His servants inform him of Ruth's identity and her commitment to Naomi.

Verses 8-16: Boaz's Kindness and Generosity

Boaz generously allows Ruth to glean in his fields, providing her protection and allowing her to share his workers' water. He also invites her to eat with his workers, personally giving her roasted grain. Ruth is treated with kindness and respect, despite being a foreigner.

Verses 17-23: Ruth’s Devotion and Naomi's Recognition

Ruth works diligently and returns home to share her bounty and recount her day to Naomi. Naomi identifies Boaz as a close relative, one with the power to redeem them. She advises Ruth to stay with Boaz’s female servants and glean from his field till the end of the barley and wheat harvests.

Ruth 2 unfolds as a key chapter in the Bible, wherein the lives of Ruth, a Moabite widow, and Boaz, a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, first intertwine. The chapter beautifully portrays the themes of divine providence, generosity, humility, and faithfulness that underpin their encounter.

1. Kindness
2. Redemption
3. Divine providence
4. Humility
5. Faithfulness1. Gleaning
2. Boaz's generosity
3. Boaz's respect for Ruth
4. Ruth's commitment to Naomi
5. God's unseen guidance1. Ruth
2. Boaz
3. Naomi
4. Servants of Boaz
5. Town's women1. The field of Boaz
2. Town of Bethlehem

1. Discuss how the concept of gleaning reflects God's care for the poor and marginalized. How can we apply this principle in today's society?

2. How does Ruth demonstrate humility in this chapter? What can we learn from her example?

3. What attributes does Boaz display that makes him a model of godly character? How can you emulate these attributes in your life?

4. How does Boaz's treatment of Ruth challenge societal norms of the time? Can you identify similar situations in the contemporary world?

5. How does the relationship between Ruth and Naomi evolve in this chapter? What does it say about their loyalty to each other?

6. How does God's providence appear in Ruth's life? Share a time when you've seen God's providence in your own life.

7. What can we infer about Ruth's character based on Boaz's servants' reports about her?

8. Discuss the significance of Naomi recognizing Boaz as a "kinsman-redeemer". What does this mean for their future?

9. How does Boaz reflect God's character in his treatment of Ruth?

10. How does Ruth's experience in the field influence her faith?

11. How does Ruth demonstrate courage and initiative in this chapter?

12. What role does kindness play in this chapter, and how does it affect the storyline?

13. Compare and contrast the reaction of Boaz's servants and Boaz himself upon learning about Ruth's identity. What does it tell you about their characters?

14. How is generosity displayed in this chapter? Discuss examples in your life where you have been a recipient or giver of such generosity.

15. How can you apply the principle of generosity seen in Boaz's actions to your life?

16. In what ways can you help the "Ruths" of our time - foreigners or marginalized individuals - in your community?

17. How can the interaction between Boaz and Ruth influence your approach to relationships and interactions with others?

18. What are some modern systems or practices that reflect the concept of gleaning?

19. How does Ruth’s commitment to hard work inspire you in your own tasks and responsibilities?

20. What aspects of Ruth and Boaz’s faithfulness to God and to others can you apply to your personal and professional relationships?