Ruth 2:19

Then her mother-in-law asked her, "Where did you glean today, and where did you work? Blessed be the man who noticed you." So she told her mother-in-law where she had worked. "The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz," she said.

Study Bible

Then her mother-in-law asked her,
Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, plays a significant role in the narrative. Her inquiry reflects her concern and care for Ruth, who has shown loyalty by staying with Naomi after the death of her husband and sons. Naomi's question also indicates the importance of gleaning for their survival, as they were widows without a male provider.

“Where did you glean today, and where did you work?
Gleaning was a practice commanded in Leviticus 19:9-10 and Deuteronomy 24:19, allowing the poor and foreigners to gather leftover crops from the fields. This reflects God's provision for the marginalized. Ruth's gleaning in the fields of Bethlehem, a town in Judah, places her in the lineage of David and ultimately Jesus Christ, as Bethlehem is also the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah (Micah 5:2).

Blessed be the man who noticed you.”
Naomi's blessing upon the man who showed kindness to Ruth highlights the cultural importance of hospitality and generosity. In the context of the narrative, Boaz's favor towards Ruth is seen as providential, aligning with God's overarching plan. This blessing foreshadows the role Boaz will play as a kinsman-redeemer, a type of Christ who redeems and restores.

So she told her mother-in-law where she had worked.
Ruth's report to Naomi signifies transparency and trust in their relationship. It also sets the stage for Naomi to recognize the providential hand of God in leading Ruth to Boaz's field, which will become a pivotal moment in their story of redemption.

“The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz,” she said.
The introduction of Boaz is crucial, as he is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. This connection introduces the concept of the kinsman-redeemer, as outlined in Leviticus 25:25-55 and Deuteronomy 25:5-10. Boaz's role as a redeemer prefigures Christ, who redeems humanity. Boaz's name, meaning "strength," further emphasizes his role as a protector and provider, mirroring the strength and salvation found in Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, by staying with her and seeking to provide for them both.

2. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who has returned to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons, and is now dependent on Ruth's gleaning for sustenance.

3. Boaz
A wealthy and influential relative of Naomi's late husband, who owns the field where Ruth gleans. He shows kindness and protection towards Ruth.

4. Bethlehem
The town in Judah where Naomi and Ruth have returned, and where the events of this chapter take place.

5. Gleaning
The act of collecting leftover crops from farmers' fields after they have been commercially harvested, a provision in the Law of Moses for the poor and foreigners.

Teaching Points

God's Providence and Provision
Ruth's encounter with Boaz is not coincidental but a demonstration of God's providence. Believers can trust that God is actively working in their lives, even in seemingly mundane circumstances.

The Importance of Character
Ruth's diligence and loyalty are rewarded. Her character opens doors for God's blessings. Christians are encouraged to cultivate virtues that reflect God's character.

Community and Support
Naomi's blessing upon Boaz highlights the importance of community support and gratitude. Believers should recognize and appreciate the kindness of others, fostering a spirit of community.

Faithfulness in Small Things
Ruth's faithfulness in gleaning, a humble task, leads to greater opportunities. This teaches that faithfulness in small responsibilities can lead to greater blessings and responsibilities.

God's Redemption Plan
The account of Ruth and Boaz is a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work. It reminds believers of God's overarching plan to redeem and restore.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ruth's experience of gleaning reflect God's provision for the marginalized in society, and how can we apply this principle today?

2. In what ways does Ruth's character influence the events of this chapter, and how can we emulate her virtues in our own lives?

3. How does Naomi's response to Ruth's day of gleaning demonstrate the importance of community and gratitude?

4. What does the account of Ruth and Boaz teach us about God's providence and timing in our lives?

5. How does the inclusion of Ruth and Boaz in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) enhance our understanding of God's redemptive plan through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:9-10
This passage outlines the law of gleaning, which provides for the poor and the foreigner, showing God's provision and care for the marginalized.

Proverbs 31:10-31
The description of a virtuous woman, which parallels Ruth's industriousness and character.

Matthew 1:5
Boaz is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting the significance of his and Ruth's lineage in God's redemptive plan.