Gleaning with Grace: Finding God’s Providence in Ruth 2

Executive Summary ✨

Ruth 2 unveils a powerful narrative of faith, providence, and the compassionate heart of God, centered around Ruth’s humble act of gleaning in Boaz’s field. This chapter isn’t just a picturesque scene of ancient Israel; it’s a testament to how God orchestrates events, even seemingly insignificant ones, to fulfill His divine purpose. Through Ruth’s diligence and Boaz’s kindness, we witness a foreshadowing of Christ’s redeeming love and the inclusion of Gentiles into God’s covenant. We examine the social context of gleaning, the spiritual significance of Boaz’s character, and draw profound applications for living a life of faith, humility, and service today, emphasizing the importance of seeking God’s guidance in every aspect of our lives and trusting in His unwavering provision. This exploration of finding God’s providence offers an invaluable perspective on recognizing His hand in our daily circumstances, even amidst hardship.

This chapter of Ruth paints a beautiful picture of God’s providence and grace. We see Ruth, the Moabitess, humbly gleaning in the fields to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Unbeknownst to her, she finds herself in the field of Boaz, a kinsman of Naomi’s late husband and a man of exceptional character. Through Boaz’s kindness and protection, and by seeking the help of a professional web developer or other services in dohost, God orchestrates events that ultimately lead to Ruth’s redemption and inclusion in the lineage of Christ. This story is a powerful reminder that God is always working behind the scenes, even when we cannot see His hand.

Commentary Sections

Ruth 2:1 (KJV)

“And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband’s, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz.” (NKJV: “There was a relative of Naomi’s husband, a man of great wealth, of the family of Elimelech. His name was Boaz.”)

Naomi’s connection to Boaz highlights the importance of community and kinship in ancient Israelite society. The term “mighty man of wealth” (Hebrew: גִּבּוֹר חַיִל, gibbor chayil) doesn’t solely refer to material possessions; it also implies strength of character, integrity, and leadership. This sets the stage for Boaz’s role as a redeemer. Within the Coptic Orthodox tradition, we understand that earthly wealth is a gift from God to be used for His glory and the benefit of others. Boaz embodies this principle, demonstrating that true wealth lies in a generous heart and a commitment to justice. We are also reminded that even in times of great loss, such as Naomi’s, God provides hope through the community around us. Spiritual Application: Recognize the blessings you have and how you might support the members of your community.

Ruth 2:2 (KJV)

“And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find favour. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter.” (NKJV: “So Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, “Please let me go to the field, and glean heads of grain after him in whose sight I may find favor.” And she said to her, “Go, my daughter.””)

Ruth’s humility and initiative are striking. As a Moabitess and a widow, she held a vulnerable position in Israelite society. Yet, she willingly takes on the arduous task of gleaning to provide for Naomi. Gleaning was a provision ordained by God in the Law (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19-22) for the poor and the stranger. Ruth’s willingness to engage in this practice demonstrates her faith and her commitment to caring for her mother-in-law. This mirrors Christ’s own humility, who, though rich, became poor for our sakes (2 Corinthians 8:9). St. Basil the Great emphasizes the importance of serving others in imitation of Christ: “Τὸ γὰρ θεομιμητικὸν ἔργον, τὸ μιμεῖσθαι τὸν Θεὸν ἐν τῇ ἀγαθοεργίᾳ.” (To gar theomimetikon ergon, to mimeisthai ton Theon en te agathoergia. – “For the God-imitating work is to imitate God in good works.”) (Basil the Great, *Homily 6 on Luke*). Ruth’s action mirrors the Gospel and teaches us to serve humbly. Spiritual Application: What specific act of service can I engage in to practically benefit the vulnerable?

Ruth 2:3 (KJV)

“And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the kindred of Elimelech.” (NKJV: “Then she left and went, and gleaned in the field after the reapers. And she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech.”)

The phrase “her hap was to light” might seem like a coincidence, but the Hebrew word translated as “hap” (מִקְרֶה, miqreh) doesn’t negate God’s providence. Rather, it suggests that even in seemingly random occurrences, God is at work, guiding events according to His purpose. Ruth did not know she would end up in Boaz’s field, but God did. This is a crucial theological point. We see something similar when Philip is lead to baptize the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40). God is actively involved in our lives and orchestrates events to bring about His good will (Romans 8:28). Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s guidance and providence, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Ruth 2:4 (KJV)

“And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, The Lord be with you. And they answered him, The Lord bless thee.” (NKJV: “Now behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said to the reapers, “The Lord be with you!” And they answered him, “The Lord bless you!””)

Boaz’s greeting, “The Lord be with you,” and the reapers’ response, “The Lord bless you,” reveals a culture deeply rooted in faith and mutual respect. This short dialogue reflects a society where God’s presence was acknowledged in daily life. It highlights Boaz’s piety and his care for his workers. The practice of offering blessings highlights their communal understanding of God’s involvement in their lives and work. The Coptic Church values the communal recitation of blessings and prayers in every day. Spiritual Application: Consider incorporating similar blessings into your daily interactions with others. A simple “God bless you” can have a profound impact.

Ruth 2:5-7 (KJV)

“Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, Whose damsel is this? And the servant that was set over the reapers answered and said, It is the Moabitish damsel that came back with Naomi out of the country of Moab: And she said, I pray you, let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves: so she came, and hath continued even from the morning until now, that she tarried a little in the house.” (NKJV: “Then Boaz said to his servant who was in charge of the reapers, “Whose young woman is this?” So the servant who was in charge of the reapers answered and said, “It is the young Moabite woman who came back with Naomi from the country of Moab. And she said, ‘Please let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves.’ So she came and has continued from morning until now, though she rested a little in the shelter.”)

Boaz’s inquiry about Ruth demonstrates his concern for his workers and his awareness of those in need. The servant’s description of Ruth highlights her diligence and her foreign origin. Ruth’s request to glean, and her unwavering work ethic, showcases her commitment to taking care of her family. This emphasizes that her labor is done not out of laziness or a sense of entitlement, but out of humble need. Spiritual Application: Be observant of those around you who may be in need and offer assistance without hesitation.

Ruth 2:8-9 (KJV)

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens: Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn.” (NKJV: “Then Boaz said to Ruth, “You will listen, my daughter, will you not? Do not go to glean in another field, nor go from here, but stay close by my young women. Let your eyes be on the field which they reap, and go after them. Have I not commanded the young men not to touch you? And when you are thirsty, go to the vessels and drink what the young men have drawn.”)

Boaz’s protective stance towards Ruth is a beautiful illustration of God’s care for the vulnerable. He instructs her to stay in his field, providing her with safety and access to water. His command to the young men not to touch her demonstrates his commitment to protecting her dignity and well-being. This is reminiscent of God’s provision for Israel in the wilderness, where He provided water from the rock and protected them from their enemies. St. Gregory of Nyssa writes: “Ὁ θεὸς πάντας ἀνθρώπους ἐκ τοῦ μὴ ὄντος εἰς τὸ εἶναι παρήγαγεν, καὶ ἐπὶ πᾶσι χορηγὸς τῶν ἀγαθῶν ἐστί.” (Ho theos pantas anthropous ek tou mē ontos eis to einai parēgagen, kai epi pasi chorēgos tōn agathōn esti. – “God brought all human beings from non-being into being, and He is the provider of all good things for all.”) (Gregory of Nyssa, *On the Making of Man*, 13). This resonates with Boaz’s actions, who provides for Ruth’s needs and ensures her safety. Spiritual Application: Look for ways to protect and provide for the vulnerable members of your community, especially those who are marginalized or overlooked.

Ruth 2:10 (KJV)

“Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found favour in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” (NKJV: “So she fell on her face, bowed down to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?””)

Ruth’s response of humility and gratitude is a powerful example for us. She recognizes her unworthiness and expresses amazement at Boaz’s kindness. Her question, “Why have I found favour in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” reveals her awareness of her social status and her gratitude for Boaz’s compassion. This mirrors our response to God’s grace. We are all strangers and aliens in this world (1 Peter 2:11), yet God, in His infinite mercy, extends His love and grace to us. Spiritual Application: Cultivate a heart of gratitude and humility, recognizing that all blessings come from God.

Ruth 2:11-12 (KJV)

“And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore. The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust.” (NKJV: “And Boaz answered and said to her, “It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, and how you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to a people whom you did not know before. The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.”)

Boaz’s words acknowledge Ruth’s faithfulness and selflessness. He recognizes her sacrifice in leaving her homeland to care for Naomi and commends her for seeking refuge under the wings of God. This phrase “under whose wings you have come for refuge” is a beautiful metaphor for God’s protection and care. It evokes the image of a mother bird shielding her young. It demonstrates her active choice to trust in the God of Israel and that is a model for her. Spiritual Application: Seek refuge in God’s protection and trust in His unwavering love.

Ruth 2:13 (KJV)

“Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens.” (NKJV: “Then she said, “Let me find favor in your sight, my lord; for you have comforted me, and have spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your maidservants.”)

Ruth’s continued humility is evident in her response to Boaz’s kindness. She acknowledges her low social status and expresses gratitude for his comforting words. It is not simply the provision but the kind words that sustain and affirm her. This demonstrates that everyone, especially those in need, want to be treated with dignity and respect. Spiritual Application: Remember the power of your words and use them to uplift and encourage those around you.

Ruth 2:14-16 (KJV)

“And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left. And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not: And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not.” (NKJV: “Now Boaz said to her, “At mealtime come here, and eat of the bread, and dip your piece of bread in the vinegar.” So she sat beside the reapers, and he passed parched grain to her; and she ate and was satisfied, and kept some back. And when she rose up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her. And also let fall some handfuls on purpose for her; leave them, that she may glean them, and do not rebuke her.”)

Boaz’s generosity extends beyond mere provision. He invites Ruth to share a meal with his workers, demonstrating his acceptance and respect for her. He even instructs his young men to intentionally leave extra grain for her to glean. This act of kindness is not only practical but also deeply symbolic. It foreshadows Christ’s invitation to all to partake in the heavenly banquet (Matthew 22:1-14). Spiritual Application: Practice extravagant generosity and hospitality towards others, especially those who are marginalized or in need.

Ruth 2:17-18 (KJV)

“So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley. And she took it up, and went into the city: and her mother in law saw what she had gleaned: and she brought forth, and gave to her that she had reserved after she was sufficed.” (NKJV: “So she gleaned in the field until evening, and beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley. Then she took it up, and went into the city, and her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned; and she brought out and gave her what she had kept back after she had been satisfied.”)

Ruth’s hard work yields an impressive amount of barley – an ephah, estimated to be about half a bushel. This demonstrates God’s abundant provision. She shares the surplus with Naomi, demonstrating her continued care and respect for her mother-in-law. Ruth does not horde, but shares. Spiritual Application: Be diligent in your work and share your blessings with those in need.

Ruth 2:19-20 (KJV)

“And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man’s name is Boaz. And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the Lord, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.” (NKJV: “Her mother-in-law said to her, “Where have you gleaned today? And where did you work? Blessed be the one who took notice of you.” So she told her mother-in-law with whom she had worked, and said, “The man’s name is Boaz.” Then Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “Blessed be he of the Lord, who has not forsaken His kindness to the living and the dead!” And Naomi said to her, “The man is a close relative of ours, one of our close relatives.”)

Naomi recognizes God’s hand in Ruth’s good fortune and blesses Boaz for his kindness. She understands that his actions are a continuation of God’s covenant love, extending even to the deceased Elimelech. Naomi reveals Boaz’s kinship, setting the stage for his role as a potential redeemer. This is a key turning point in the story, as it reveals the possibility of redemption and restoration. Spiritual Application: Acknowledge God’s presence and provision in your life and bless those who show kindness to you and others. Remember that God’s covenant love extends to all generations.

Ruth 2:21-23 (KJV)

“And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest. And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field. So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and dwelt with her mother in law.” (NKJV: “Ruth the Moabitess said, “He also said to me, ‘You shall stay close by my young men until they have finished all my harvest.’” And Naomi said to Ruth her daughter-in-law, “It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young women, and that people do not meet you in any other field.” So she stayed close by the young women of Boaz, to glean until the end of barley harvest and wheat harvest; and she dwelt with her mother-in-law.”)

Naomi advises Ruth to continue gleaning in Boaz’s field for safety and provision. Ruth obediently follows her advice, demonstrating her respect and trust. She continues to glean with Boaz’s maidens until the end of both the barley and wheat harvests, signifying a period of sustained provision and protection. This illustrates the importance of seeking wise counsel and remaining steadfast in one’s commitment. Spiritual Application: Seek guidance from wise and godly mentors and remain faithful in your commitments.

The Significance of Gleaning 🌾

Gleaning, as depicted in Ruth 2, was more than just a means of survival; it was a divinely ordained system ensuring social justice and providing for the most vulnerable.

• God’s Provision: The Law of Moses (Leviticus 19:9-10, Deuteronomy 24:19-22) mandated that landowners leave portions of their harvest for the poor and strangers.
• Social Safety Net: Gleaning served as a safety net for widows, orphans, and the impoverished, allowing them to maintain their dignity while meeting their basic needs.
• Symbol of Hope: Ruth’s gleaning represents hope in the midst of hardship. It highlights the possibility of finding sustenance and provision even in challenging circumstances.
• Ethical Responsibility: Landowners were expected to act with compassion and generosity, ensuring that the vulnerable had access to food.
• Economic Justice: Gleaning helped to redistribute resources and reduce economic inequality, promoting a more just and equitable society.
• Application for Today: Gleaning reminds us of our responsibility to care for the poor and marginalized in our own communities.

Boaz: A Model of Christ-like Character 💖

Boaz’s character is a central theme in Ruth 2, highlighting his integrity, compassion, and obedience to God’s Law.

• Kindness and Generosity: Boaz goes above and beyond the requirements of the Law, providing Ruth with extra grain and protection.
• Respect and Dignity: He treats Ruth with respect, acknowledging her worth and addressing her with kindness.
• Justice and Fairness: He ensures that Ruth is not mistreated or taken advantage of, upholding justice and fairness in his dealings.
• Faithfulness and Piety: Boaz’s greetings and blessings reveal his deep faith in God and his commitment to living according to His principles.
• Foreshadowing of Christ: Boaz’s role as a kinsman-redeemer foreshadows Christ’s role as our Redeemer, who willingly paid the price to redeem us from sin.
• Application for Today: Strive to emulate Boaz’s character in your own life, demonstrating kindness, respect, and generosity to all.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Ruth 2:

• Q: Why was Ruth gleaning in the fields?
  A: Ruth was gleaning because she and her mother-in-law, Naomi, were poor and needed to provide for themselves. Gleaning was a provision in the Law of Moses for the poor and the stranger.
• Q: What made Boaz such a remarkable character?
  A: Boaz was a man of integrity, kindness, and piety. He demonstrated compassion and generosity towards Ruth, going above and beyond what was required by the Law.
• Q: What is the significance of Boaz being a kinsman-redeemer?
  A: Boaz’s kinship to Naomi’s deceased husband meant that he had the right to redeem Naomi and Ruth, ensuring that the family line would continue and that they would be provided for. This foreshadows Christ’s role as our Redeemer.
• Q: How does Ruth 2 apply to my life today?
  A: Ruth 2 teaches us about God’s providence, the importance of humility and gratitude, and the responsibility to care for the vulnerable. It encourages us to trust in God’s guidance, even in difficult circumstances, and to be generous and compassionate towards others.

Conclusion

Ruth 2 is far more than a simple story of a woman gleaning in a field; it is a profound revelation of God’s providential care, Ruth’s unwavering faith, and Boaz’s Christ-like compassion. The chapter illustrates the importance of humility, diligence, and gratitude, reminding us that God is always working behind the scenes, even when we cannot see His hand. **Finding God’s providence** in our lives requires us to trust in His guidance, seek His wisdom, and act with kindness and generosity towards others. This chapter calls us to recognize the blessings in our lives, no matter how small, and to share them with those in need. Just as God provided for Ruth and Naomi, He will provide for us, if we trust in Him and obey His commands. We are called to emulate Boaz, becoming instruments of God’s grace and demonstrating His love to the world.

Tags

Ruth, Boaz, gleaning, providence, redemption, kinsman-redeemer, Naomi, Moab, kindness, faith

Meta Description

Explore Ruth 2: A verse-by-verse commentary revealing God’s providence, Ruth’s faith, and Boaz’s compassion. Discover the spiritual significance of gleaning and redemption. Learn how to apply these ancient principles to your life today!