The term "gleaneth" is derived from the practice of gleaning, which is the act of collecting leftover crops from farmers' fields after they have been commercially harvested or on fields where it is not economically profitable to harvest. This practice is deeply rooted in the agricultural and social laws of ancient Israel, as outlined in the Old Testament. Gleaning was a provision made by God to ensure that the poor, the widows, and the foreigners could gather food for themselves, reflecting God's compassion and justice.

Biblical Context and Usage

The concept of gleaning is primarily found in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy. In Leviticus 19:9-10 , the Lord commands, "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." This command is reiterated in Leviticus 23:22 , emphasizing the importance of leaving the gleanings for those in need.

Deuteronomy 24:19 further instructs, "When you reap the harvest in your field and forget a sheaf there, do not go back to get it. It is to be left for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands." These passages highlight the divine mandate for social responsibility and care for the marginalized.

The Book of Ruth

The practice of gleaning is vividly illustrated in the Book of Ruth, where Ruth, a Moabite widow, gleans in the fields of Boaz. Ruth 2:2-3 states, "And Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, 'Please let me go into the fields and glean heads of grain after someone in whose sight I may find favor.' 'Go ahead, my daughter,' Naomi replied. So Ruth departed and went out into the field and gleaned after the harvesters." Boaz, a relative of Naomi, shows kindness to Ruth, allowing her to glean more than what was customary, thus providing for her and Naomi's needs.

Boaz's actions reflect the spirit of the law, going beyond mere compliance to demonstrate generosity and kindness. Ruth 2:16 records Boaz instructing his workers, "Rather, pull out for her some stalks from the bundles and leave them for her to gather. Do not rebuke her." This narrative not only underscores the importance of gleaning as a social safety net but also highlights the virtues of kindness, loyalty, and divine providence.

Theological Significance

Gleaning serves as a powerful symbol of God's provision and care for all people, especially the vulnerable. It underscores the biblical principle that the land ultimately belongs to God, and His people are stewards who must use their resources to reflect His character. The practice of gleaning teaches lessons of humility, generosity, and reliance on God's provision.

In a broader theological context, gleaning can be seen as a metaphor for God's grace, where He provides abundantly for His people, inviting them to partake in His blessings. The account of Ruth and Boaz, in particular, foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who, like Boaz, extends grace and inclusion to those outside the covenant community, bringing them into the fold of God's people.

Cultural and Historical Insights

In ancient Israel, agriculture was the backbone of society, and the laws concerning gleaning were practical applications of the broader covenantal principles of justice and mercy. These laws ensured that the community functioned with a sense of mutual responsibility and care. The practice of gleaning also served as a reminder of Israel's own history as sojourners in Egypt, fostering empathy and compassion for the foreigner and the needy.

Overall, the concept of "gleaneth" in the Bible is a testament to God's enduring concern for justice, mercy, and the well-being of all His creation, encouraging His people to live out these values in their daily lives.

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7. <. ...
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Gleaneth (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Gleaneth (2 Occurrences). Ruth 2:17 And she gleaneth
in the field till the evening, and beateth out that ...
/g/gleaneth.htm - 7k

Gleaning (10 Occurrences)
... 17:5 And it shall be as when the harvestman gathereth the standing corn, and reapeth
the ears with his arm; yea, it shall be as when one gleaneth ears in the ...
/g/gleaning.htm - 12k

Gleaned (6 Occurrences)

/g/gleaned.htm - 8k

Reph'aim (17 Occurrences)
... 17:5 And it shall be as when the harvestman gathereth the standing corn, and reapeth
the ears with his arm; yea, it shall be as when one gleaneth ears in the ...
/r/reph'aim.htm - 11k

Beateth (7 Occurrences)
... Ruth 2:17 And she gleaneth in the field till the evening, and beateth out that which
she hath gleaned, and it is about an ephah of barley; (YLT). ...
/b/beateth.htm - 8k

Harvests (8 Occurrences)
... 17:5 And it shall be as when the harvestman gathereth the standing corn, and reapeth
the ears with his arm; yea, it shall be as when one gleaneth ears in the ...
/h/harvests.htm - 8k

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