Ruth Meets Boaz | Ruth 2

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Introduction 

We have a good God who is in control of all our circumstances; and when good things happen for us, it is because He has orchestrated it. 

The first chapter of Ruth begins with three widows stranded in Moab. Two traveled from there to Judah, the home of the older woman, Naomi. The entire first chapter sets the scene for the major events of the book that are about to unfold. Two important facts prepare the way for what follows. First, the women arrived in Judah at the time of barley harvest (vs. 22). Second, Naomi had a wealthy relative named Boaz (2:1). These form the basis for all that follows. 

Naomi and Ruth were destitute; so to help meet their needs, Ruth requested and received permission from Naomi to go out into neighboring fields to glean. God providentially led her to the fields of Boaz, who inquired about her upon returning from town. His servants gave him a good report about Ruth and her work.

Union Gospel Press, LifeStone |. Bible Expositor and Illuminator: Summer Quarter June, July, August 2024 (pp. 102-103). Union Gospel Press. Kindle Edition. 

The Book of Ruth, Chapter 2, is a significant passage in the Bible that portrays themes of loyalty, kindness, and divine providence. Here’s a commentary on Ruth 2:

  1. Ruth's Initiative: The chapter begins with Ruth taking the initiative to go glean in the fields after Naomi, her mother-in-law, suggests it as a way to find favor and provision. Gleaning was a practice in ancient Israel where the poor could gather leftover grain from the fields after the harvesters had finished.

  2. Boaz's Kindness: Ruth happens to glean in the field belonging to Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband. Boaz notices Ruth and inquires about her, learning of her loyalty to Naomi and her hard work. He instructs his workers to leave extra grain for her to gather, demonstrating his kindness and generosity.

  3. Boaz's Blessing: Boaz blesses Ruth, encouraging her to continue gleaning in his fields and assuring her of protection. He also invites her to share meals with his workers, further showing his care and concern for her well-being.

  4. Ruth's Humility and Gratitude: Ruth responds humbly to Boaz’s kindness, acknowledging her status as a foreigner and expressing gratitude for his favor. Her respectful demeanor and hard work earn her further praise from Boaz.

  5. Divine Providence: The chapter highlights how God’s providence works through the actions of ordinary people. Ruth’s decision to glean in Boaz’s field is not mere chance but part of God’s plan to provide for Naomi and Ruth through Boaz’s generosity and eventual role in their lives.

  6. Themes of Loyalty and Kindness: Throughout the chapter, loyalty between Ruth and Naomi is evident. Ruth’s commitment to Naomi leads her to take risks and work diligently to provide for them both. Boaz’s kindness extends beyond mere charity; it reflects the values of compassion and generosity upheld in the laws of Israel.

  7. Foreshadowing: Ruth’s encounter with Boaz foreshadows their future relationship and the unfolding of God’s plan for their lives. This sets the stage for subsequent events in the book, including Boaz’s role as Ruth’s kinsman-redeemer.

In summary, Ruth 2 is a rich narrative illustrating how acts of loyalty, kindness, and humility can lead to unexpected blessings. It underscores God’s providential care over His people and sets the stage for the deeper theological themes that unfold in subsequent chapters of the book.

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