Ruth 2:16

Rather, pull out for her some stalks from the bundles and leave them for her to gather. Do not rebuke her."

Study Bible

Rather
This word indicates a contrast or an alternative action. In the context of Ruth 2, Boaz is instructing his workers to go beyond the usual practice of allowing gleaners to pick up what is left behind. The Hebrew root here suggests a deliberate choice to act with kindness and generosity, reflecting Boaz's character as a man of integrity and compassion.

pull out for her
This phrase implies intentionality and effort. The Hebrew verb used here can mean to draw out or extract, suggesting that Boaz is instructing his workers to actively assist Ruth. This action goes beyond the requirements of the law, which allowed gleaners to pick up what was accidentally left behind. Boaz's directive is an act of grace, providing for Ruth's needs in abundance.

some stalks from the bundles
The "stalks" refer to the sheaves of grain that have been harvested. In ancient Israel, the harvest was a time of gathering and bundling grain, which was a labor-intensive process. By instructing his workers to pull stalks from the bundles, Boaz is ensuring that Ruth receives not just leftovers, but a portion of the gathered harvest, symbolizing God's provision and blessing.

and leave them for her to gather
This phrase highlights the dignity and respect Boaz shows to Ruth. By leaving the stalks for her to gather, he allows her to work and provide for herself and Naomi, maintaining her dignity. The Hebrew concept of gleaning was rooted in the law (Leviticus 19:9-10), which commanded landowners to leave the edges of their fields for the poor and the foreigner. Boaz's actions reflect a deep understanding and application of this law.

Do not rebuke her
This command underscores Boaz's protective nature. The Hebrew word for "rebuke" can also mean to shame or humiliate. By instructing his workers not to rebuke Ruth, Boaz is ensuring her safety and comfort in a foreign land. This reflects the biblical principle of caring for the vulnerable and marginalized, as seen throughout Scripture. Boaz's actions foreshadow the protective and redemptive nature of Christ, who welcomes and defends those who seek refuge under His wings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, by returning with her to Bethlehem. Ruth's character is marked by her faithfulness and hard work.

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 laws of God.

3. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who has returned to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons. She is a key figure in guiding Ruth and seeking her well-being.

4. Bethlehem
The setting of the account, a town in Judah where Ruth and Naomi have returned during the barley harvest.

5. The Harvest
The event during which Ruth gleans in the fields of Boaz, setting the stage for her eventual redemption and marriage to Boaz.

Teaching Points

God's Provision
Ruth 2:16 demonstrates God's provision through Boaz's generosity. We are reminded that God often uses people to fulfill His purposes and provide for others.

Kindness and Generosity
Boaz's actions teach us the importance of kindness and generosity. As Christians, we are called to be generous and to care for those in need.

Faithfulness in Small Things
Ruth's diligence in gleaning reflects faithfulness in small tasks, which God honors. We should strive to be faithful in our daily responsibilities.

Divine Appointments
The meeting of Ruth and Boaz was not by chance but a divine appointment. We should be open to God's leading in our interactions with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Boaz's treatment of Ruth in Ruth 2:16 reflect the character of God, and how can we emulate this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Ruth and Boaz illustrate the concept of redemption, and how does this connect to the New Testament understanding of Christ as our Redeemer?

3. How can we apply the principle of gleaning, as seen in Ruth 2:16, to modern-day practices of caring for the poor and marginalized?

4. What does Ruth's example of faithfulness and hard work teach us about our approach to work and service in our communities?

5. How can we recognize and respond to divine appointments in our lives, similar to the encounter between Ruth and Boaz?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The account of Ruth and Boaz is a precursor to the lineage of King David, and ultimately, Jesus Christ, highlighting God's providence and the inclusion of Gentiles in His plan.

The concept of gleaning and provision for the poor is rooted in Levitical law, which instructed landowners to leave the edges of their fields for the needy.

The theme of redemption in Ruth parallels the redemptive work of Christ, who is our kinsman-redeemer.