◄ Ruth 2 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Boaz Meets Ruth Ruth 2 paints a beautiful picture of God’s guidance, even in our unawareness. It's a testament to the rewards of unwavering faithfulness and humility. The generosity shown by Boaz serves as a reminder that acts of kindness can bring profound impact to those in need. Verses 1-3: Divine Providence Leads Ruth to Boaz's Field In her pursuit of sustenance, Ruth, unaware of his relationship to Naomi, coincidentally winds up in the field of Boaz to glean grain. Verses 4-7: Boaz Learns about Ruth Boaz arrives from Bethlehem and, observing the unfamiliar face of Ruth in his field, inquires about her. His servants inform him of Ruth's identity and her commitment to Naomi. Verses 8-16: Boaz's Kindness and Generosity Boaz generously allows Ruth to glean in his fields, providing her protection and allowing her to share his workers' water. He also invites her to eat with his workers, personally giving her roasted grain. Ruth is treated with kindness and respect, despite being a foreigner. Verses 17-23: Ruth’s Devotion and Naomi's Recognition Ruth works diligently and returns home to share her bounty and recount her day to Naomi. Naomi identifies Boaz as a close relative, one with the power to redeem them. She advises Ruth to stay with Boaz’s female servants and glean from his field till the end of the barley and wheat harvests. Ruth 2 unfolds as a key chapter in the Bible, wherein the lives of Ruth, a Moabite widow, and Boaz, a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, first intertwine. The chapter beautifully portrays the themes of divine providence, generosity, humility, and faithfulness that underpin their encounter. Teaching Points Ruth’s Initiative and Faith Ruth takes the initiative to glean in the fields, demonstrating her willingness to work and her faith in God’s provision. “Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor” (Ruth 2:2). Boaz’s Kindness and Protection Boaz notices Ruth and extends kindness and protection to her, reflecting God’s care for the vulnerable. “The LORD be with you!” Boaz called out to them. “The LORD bless you!” they replied (Ruth 2:4). God’s Providence The chapter illustrates God’s providence as Ruth “happened” to glean in Boaz’s field, a relative of Naomi. “As it turned out, she was working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelech” (Ruth 2:3). Character and Reputation Ruth’s character and reputation precede her, as Boaz acknowledges her loyalty to Naomi. “All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully reported to me” (Ruth 2:11). Practical Applications Step Out in Faith Like Ruth, we should take initiative and trust God to provide for our needs, even in uncertain circumstances. Show Kindness to Others Boaz’s example encourages us to show kindness and protection to those in need, reflecting God’s love. Recognize God’s Hand Be attentive to how God might be working in the ordinary details of your life, orchestrating events for His purposes. Build a Godly Reputation Strive to live in such a way that your character and actions speak positively to others about your faith. People 1. Naomi Naomi is Ruth's mother-in-law. She is a widow who has returned to Bethlehem from Moab after the death of her husband and sons. Naomi plays a crucial role in guiding Ruth and is a central figure in the narrative. Her name in Hebrew, נָעֳמִי (Na'omi), means "pleasant" or "my delight." 2. Ruth Ruth is a Moabite widow and the daughter-in-law of Naomi. She is known for her loyalty and devotion to Naomi, choosing to stay with her and adopt her people and God. Ruth's name in Hebrew, רוּת (Rut), is thought to mean "friend" or "companion." 3. Boaz Boaz is a wealthy and influential landowner in Bethlehem and a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. He is described as a man of standing and becomes Ruth's kinsman-redeemer. His name in Hebrew, בֹּעַז (Bo'az), means "strength" or "swiftness." 4. The Servant in Charge of the Reapers This unnamed servant is responsible for overseeing the reapers in Boaz's fields. He provides information to Boaz about Ruth's identity and her hard work in the fields. 5. The Reapers These are the workers in Boaz's fields who are harvesting the barley. They interact with Ruth as she gleans behind them. Places 1. Bethlehem This is the town where Naomi and Ruth return to from Moab. It is significant as the setting for much of the Book of Ruth and is also known as the "House of Bread." In Hebrew, Bethlehem (בֵּית לֶחֶם) means "house of bread," which is fitting given the agricultural context of the story. 2. Field of Boaz Ruth goes to glean in the fields and happens to come to the portion of the field belonging to Boaz. This field is significant as it is where Ruth meets Boaz, who plays a crucial role in her and Naomi's redemption. The Hebrew word for field is "שָׂדֶה" (sadeh), indicating an open area of land used for agriculture. Events 1. Introduction of Boaz The chapter begins by introducing Boaz as a relative of Naomi's late husband, Elimelech. He is described as a "man of standing" (Ruth 2:1), which in Hebrew is "gibbor chayil," indicating a man of wealth, influence, and noble character. 2. Ruth Seeks Permission to Glean Ruth requests Naomi's permission to go to the fields to glean leftover grain, hoping to find favor in someone's eyes (Ruth 2:2). The Hebrew word for "glean" is "laqat," which refers to gathering leftover crops. 3. Ruth Gleans in Boaz's Field Ruth happens to glean in the field belonging to Boaz (Ruth 2:3). The text emphasizes the providential nature of this event with the phrase "as it turned out," suggesting divine orchestration. 4. Boaz Inquires About Ruth Boaz arrives from Bethlehem and greets his harvesters with a blessing. He notices Ruth and asks his foreman about her identity (Ruth 2:4-5). The foreman identifies her as the Moabite who returned with Naomi. 5. Boaz Speaks to Ruth Boaz addresses Ruth, advising her to stay in his fields and assuring her of protection and provision (Ruth 2:8-9). He acknowledges her loyalty to Naomi and prays for God's reward upon her. 6. Ruth Expresses Gratitude Ruth expresses her gratitude to Boaz, acknowledging his kindness despite her status as a foreigner (Ruth 2:10). The Hebrew word "chen" for "favor" highlights the grace she experiences. 7. Boaz Extends Further Kindness During mealtime, Boaz invites Ruth to eat with his workers, offering her roasted grain (Ruth 2:14). He instructs his men to allow her to glean among the sheaves and to leave extra grain for her (Ruth 2:15-16). 8. Ruth Gleans Abundantly Ruth gleans in the field until evening and gathers an ephah of barley, a significant amount (Ruth 2:17). The Hebrew term "ephah" indicates a large quantity, reflecting Boaz's generosity. 9. Ruth Reports to Naomi Ruth returns to Naomi with her gleanings and shares her encounter with Boaz (Ruth 2:18-19). Naomi recognizes Boaz as a close relative and potential "kinsman-redeemer" (Hebrew: "go'el"). 10. Naomi Advises Ruth Naomi advises Ruth to continue gleaning in Boaz's fields, recognizing the safety and provision he offers (Ruth 2:22). The chapter concludes with Ruth staying close to Boaz's servant girls throughout the harvest season (Ruth 2:23). Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 31:10-31 The virtuous woman, like Ruth, is industrious and caring for her family. Matthew 25:35-40 Jesus teaches about serving others, as Boaz served Ruth. Romans 8:28 God works all things together for good, as seen in His providence in Ruth’s life. Prayer Points Pray for the faith to step out and trust God’s provision in your life. Ask God to help you show kindness and compassion to those around you. Thank God for His providence and ask for eyes to see His hand at work in your life. Pray for a reputation that honors God and reflects His love to others. As we reflect on Ruth 2, may we be inspired by Ruth’s faith, Boaz’s kindness, and God’s providence, trusting that He is at work in our lives in ways we may not yet see. Bible Study Questions 1. Discuss how the concept of gleaning reflects God's care for the poor and marginalized. How can we apply this principle in today's society? 2. How does Ruth demonstrate humility in this chapter? What can we learn from her example? 3. What attributes does Boaz display that makes him a model of godly character? How can you emulate these attributes in your life? 4. How does Boaz's treatment of Ruth challenge societal norms of the time? Can you identify similar situations in the contemporary world? 5. How does the relationship between Ruth and Naomi evolve in this chapter? What does it say about their loyalty to each other? 6. How does God's providence appear in Ruth's life? Share a time when you've seen God's providence in your own life. 7. What can we infer about Ruth's character based on Boaz's servants' reports about her? 8. Discuss the significance of Naomi recognizing Boaz as a "kinsman-redeemer". What does this mean for their future? 9. How does Boaz reflect God's character in his treatment of Ruth? 10. How does Ruth's experience in the field influence her faith? 11. How does Ruth demonstrate courage and initiative in this chapter? 12. What role does kindness play in this chapter, and how does it affect the storyline? 13. Compare and contrast the reaction of Boaz's servants and Boaz himself upon learning about Ruth's identity. What does it tell you about their characters? 14. How is generosity displayed in this chapter? Discuss examples in your life where you have been a recipient or giver of such generosity. 15. How can you apply the principle of generosity seen in Boaz's actions to your life? 16. In what ways can you help the "Ruths" of our time - foreigners or marginalized individuals - in your community? 17. How can the interaction between Boaz and Ruth influence your approach to relationships and interactions with others? 18. What are some modern systems or practices that reflect the concept of gleaning? 19. How does Ruth’s commitment to hard work inspire you in your own tasks and responsibilities? 20. What aspects of Ruth and Boaz’s faithfulness to God and to others can you apply to your personal and professional relationships? Topics 1. Ruth's Gleaning in Boaz's Field Ruth 2 begins with Ruth, a Moabite widow, seeking to glean in the fields to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. The practice of gleaning, as described in Leviticus 19:9-10, allowed the poor and foreigners to gather leftover crops. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "chesed" (חֶסֶד), meaning loving-kindness or mercy, which is a recurring theme in the book. 2. Introduction of Boaz Boaz is introduced as a "man of standing" (Ruth 2:1), indicating his wealth and social status. The Hebrew term "gibbor chayil" (גִּבּוֹר חַיִל) suggests not only wealth but also valor and integrity, setting the stage for his role as a kinsman-redeemer. 3. Ruth's Encounter with Boaz Ruth's encounter with Boaz is marked by his kindness and protection. Boaz acknowledges Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and blesses her, saying, "May the LORD repay your work, and may you receive a rich reward from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge" (Ruth 2:12). The imagery of taking refuge under God's wings is a powerful metaphor for divine protection and care. 4. Boaz's Provision for Ruth Boaz instructs his workers to allow Ruth to glean among the sheaves and even leave extra grain for her (Ruth 2:15-16). This act of generosity goes beyond the legal requirements, demonstrating Boaz's character and foreshadowing his role as a redeemer. The Hebrew root "ga'al" (גָּאַל) for redeemer is significant in understanding the cultural and theological implications of his actions. 5. Ruth's Report to Naomi Upon returning to Naomi, Ruth shares her experience and the kindness shown by Boaz. Naomi recognizes Boaz as a close relative and potential redeemer, saying, "The man is a close relative; he is one of our kinsman-redeemers" (Ruth 2:20). This introduces the concept of "go'el" (גֹּאֵל), the kinsman-redeemer, which is central to the unfolding narrative of redemption and restoration. 6. Continuation of Gleaning The chapter concludes with Ruth continuing to glean in Boaz's fields throughout the barley and wheat harvests, living with her mother-in-law (Ruth 2:23). This ongoing provision highlights God's providence and sets the stage for the developing relationship between Ruth and Boaz, emphasizing themes of faithfulness and divine orchestration. Themes 1. Divine Providence and Guidance The theme of divine providence is evident as Ruth "happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz" (Ruth 2:3). The Hebrew word used here, "mikreh," suggests a chance occurrence, yet the narrative implies God's guiding hand in Ruth's steps, orchestrating events for her welfare. 2. Kindness and Loyalty Boaz's kindness towards Ruth is a central theme, as he instructs his workers to allow her to glean and even leave extra grain for her (Ruth 2:15-16). This reflects the Hebrew concept of "hesed," a covenantal loyalty and loving-kindness, which Boaz extends to Ruth, recognizing her loyalty to Naomi. 3. Provision and Protection Boaz provides for Ruth's physical needs and ensures her safety, instructing the young men not to touch her and allowing her to drink from the water jars (Ruth 2:9). This reflects the biblical principle of caring for the vulnerable, as outlined in the Mosaic Law. 4. Social and Economic Justice The practice of gleaning, as seen in Ruth 2, highlights the theme of social justice. The law allowed the poor and foreigners to glean in the fields (Leviticus 19:9-10), and Boaz's adherence to this law demonstrates a commitment to economic justice and care for the marginalized. 5. God's Blessing and Favor Boaz acknowledges Ruth's faithfulness and prays for God's blessing upon her, saying, "May the LORD repay your work, and may you receive a rich reward from the LORD, the God of Israel" (Ruth 2:12). This theme underscores the belief that God rewards faithfulness and integrity. 6. Redemption and Hope The introduction of Boaz as a "kinsman-redeemer" (Ruth 2:20) foreshadows the theme of redemption. The Hebrew term "go'el" refers to a relative who restores the rights of another, pointing to the hope of restoration and future provision for Ruth and Naomi. 7. Community and Belonging Ruth's integration into the community of Bethlehem is a significant theme. Despite being a Moabite, she is accepted and protected within the community, illustrating the biblical ideal of inclusion and the breaking down of ethnic barriers through shared faith and values. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions