Ruth 2:7

She has said, 'Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves after the harvesters.' So she came out and has continued from morning until now, except that she rested a short time in the shelter."

Study Bible

She has said, ‘Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves after the harvesters.’
In the ancient Near Eastern context, gleaning was a practice allowed by Mosaic Law, where the poor and foreigners could collect leftover crops from the fields after the harvesters had passed through (Leviticus 19:9-10, Deuteronomy 24:19-22). Ruth, a Moabite and a widow, was exercising her right under this law, demonstrating her humility and willingness to work for sustenance. This act of gleaning also highlights the provision God made for the marginalized in society. Ruth's request to glean "among the sheaves" suggests she sought permission to gather not just the leftovers on the ground but also among the bundles, indicating her boldness and initiative. This foreshadows her role in God's redemptive plan, as she becomes an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5).

So she came out and has continued from morning until now,
Ruth's dedication and work ethic are evident as she labors from morning until the present time. This reflects her character as industrious and diligent, qualities that earn her favor in the eyes of Boaz, the field owner. Her perseverance is a testament to her commitment to Naomi, her mother-in-law, and her determination to provide for them both. This phrase also underscores the theme of divine providence, as Ruth's hard work places her in the path of Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer, who plays a crucial role in her life and the continuation of Naomi's family line.

except that she rested a short time in the shelter.”
The mention of Ruth taking a short rest in the shelter indicates the harsh conditions of fieldwork and the necessity of rest even for the most diligent workers. The shelter likely provided shade and a place for workers to recuperate, emphasizing the humane treatment of laborers in Boaz's fields. This detail highlights Boaz's character as a compassionate and just landowner, aligning with the biblical principle of caring for workers (Deuteronomy 24:14-15). Ruth's brief rest also symbolizes the temporary nature of her struggles, as God is orchestrating a greater plan for her life, leading to her eventual rest and security through her marriage to Boaz.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, by returning with her to Bethlehem. Her character is marked by humility and diligence.

2. Boaz
A wealthy and influential landowner in Bethlehem, who is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband. He is known for his kindness and adherence to the law.

3. Bethlehem
The setting of this chapter, a town in Judah, which is significant as the future birthplace of King David and Jesus Christ.

4. Harvesters
The workers in Boaz's field who are gathering the barley harvest. They represent the community and the social structure of the time.

5. Gleaning
The act of collecting leftover crops from the fields, which was a provision in the Mosaic Law for the poor and foreigners (Leviticus 19:9-10).

Teaching Points

Diligence and Hard Work
Ruth's commitment to gleaning from morning until now, with only a short rest, exemplifies the value of hard work and perseverance.

Humility and Respect
Ruth's request to glean shows her humility and respect for the customs and authority of the landowners.

God's Provision
The law of gleaning reflects God's heart for the poor and His provision through community structures.

Kindness and Generosity
Boaz's willingness to allow Ruth to glean in his fields demonstrates the importance of kindness and generosity towards others.

Faithfulness in Relationships
Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her willingness to work hard for their sustenance is a model of faithfulness in relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ruth's attitude and work ethic in Ruth 2:7 inspire you in your own work or service to others?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of gleaning in our modern context to care for the marginalized in our communities?

3. How does Boaz's response to Ruth's request reflect the character of God, and how can we emulate this in our interactions with others?

4. What can we learn from Ruth's humility and respect for authority, and how can this be applied in our daily lives?

5. How does Ruth's account connect to the larger account of God's redemption plan, and what does this teach us about God's sovereignty and grace?

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 31:27
This verse speaks of a virtuous woman who works diligently, similar to Ruth's industrious nature.

Matthew 1:5
Ruth is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her importance in God's redemptive plan.