Ruth 2:4

Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and said to the harvesters, "The LORD be with you." "The LORD bless you," they replied.

Study Bible

Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem
The phrase "Just then" indicates a divine timing, suggesting that Boaz's arrival was orchestrated by God. The Hebrew root for "arrived" (בּוֹא, bo) implies coming or entering, often used in contexts where significant events unfold. Boaz's arrival from "Bethlehem," meaning "house of bread," is symbolic, as Bethlehem is a place of provision and foreshadows the coming of Jesus, the Bread of Life, from the same town. Historically, Bethlehem was a small, yet significant town in Judah, known for its fertile lands and as the birthplace of King David.

and said to the harvesters
Boaz's interaction with the "harvesters" reflects the social and economic practices of ancient Israel. The harvesters were likely hired workers or servants, and Boaz's approach to them shows his character as a landowner who values and respects his workers. The Hebrew term for "harvesters" (קֹצְרִים, qotzerim) is rooted in agricultural life, emphasizing the importance of community and labor in sustaining life.

'The LORD be with you.'
This greeting, "The LORD be with you," is more than a mere salutation; it is a blessing invoking Yahweh's presence. The use of "LORD" (יהוה, YHWH) is the covenant name of God, signifying a personal and relational God who is involved in the lives of His people. This phrase reflects the theocentric worldview of the Israelites, where God's presence was central to daily life and work.

'The LORD bless you,' they replied
The response of the harvesters, "The LORD bless you," indicates a reciprocal relationship of respect and faith. The Hebrew root for "bless" (בָּרַךְ, barak) conveys the idea of kneeling or giving honor, suggesting that blessings are both received and given in humility. This exchange highlights the mutual acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and goodness, fostering a community grounded in faith and divine favor.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A wealthy and influential man from Bethlehem, Boaz is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. He is known for his kindness and adherence to the laws of God, which is evident in his interactions with Ruth.

2. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown great loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, by leaving her homeland to live in Bethlehem. Her character is marked by humility and diligence.

3. Bethlehem
A town in Judah, significant as the setting for the events of the Book of Ruth. It is also the future birthplace of King David and Jesus Christ.

4. Harvest
The time of gathering crops, which is the backdrop for Ruth's encounter with Boaz. It symbolizes God's provision and the opportunity for Ruth to find favor and sustenance.

5. Field of Boaz
The specific location where Ruth gleans, representing a place of divine appointment and blessing.

Teaching Points

Godly Leadership
Boaz exemplifies a leader who acknowledges God in his daily interactions. As Christians, we should strive to lead with integrity and faith, recognizing God's presence in our work and relationships.

Blessing Others
The mutual exchange of blessings between Boaz and his workers highlights the importance of speaking life and encouragement into the lives of those around us.

Divine Appointments
Ruth's presence in Boaz's field is not by chance but by divine orchestration. We should remain open to God's guidance and the opportunities He places before us.

Faithfulness in Work
Ruth's diligence in gleaning reflects a strong work ethic and trust in God's provision. We are called to work faithfully, trusting that God will meet our needs.

Community and Support
The interaction between Boaz and his workers shows a community built on mutual respect and support. As believers, we should foster environments where encouragement and support are prevalent.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Boaz's greeting to his workers reflect his character and relationship with God? How can we incorporate similar practices in our daily interactions?

2. In what ways does the setting of the harvest in Bethlehem provide a backdrop for God's provision and blessing in Ruth's life? How can we recognize God's provision in our own lives?

3. How does the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in the Book of Ruth point to the redemptive work of Christ? What does this mean for us as believers today?

4. What can we learn from Ruth's work ethic and attitude as she gleans in the fields? How can we apply these principles to our own work and responsibilities?

5. How does the community dynamic between Boaz and his workers serve as a model for Christian fellowship and support? What steps can we take to build such communities in our own contexts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The greeting of Boaz to his workers, "The LORD be with you," and their response, "The LORD bless you," reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, similar to the priestly blessing found in Numbers 6:24-26.

Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, as seen in the New Testament, particularly in the concept of Jesus as our Redeemer.