Ruth 2:3

So Ruth departed and went out into the field and gleaned after the harvesters. And she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelech.

Study Bible

So Ruth departed
The phrase signifies Ruth's initiative and determination. In Hebrew, the word for "departed" is "yalak," which conveys a sense of purposeful movement. Ruth's decision to leave and seek sustenance reflects her courage and faithfulness to Naomi, her mother-in-law. This action is a testament to her character, showing her willingness to work hard and provide, despite being a foreigner in a strange land.

and went out into the field
The "field" in ancient Israel was a place of labor and sustenance, often owned by wealthy landowners. Fields were central to the agrarian society and were places where God's provision was tangibly experienced. Ruth's entry into the field symbolizes her stepping into God's providence and the unfolding of His plan for her life.

and gleaned after the harvesters
Gleaning was a practice commanded by God in Leviticus 19:9-10, allowing the poor and foreigners to gather leftover crops. The Hebrew word "laqat" means to gather or collect. This practice reflects God's compassion and provision for the marginalized. Ruth's gleaning is an act of humility and reliance on God's law, which provided for her needs.

And she happened to come
The phrase "happened to come" in Hebrew is "miqreh," suggesting chance or coincidence. However, from a theological perspective, this "chance" is seen as divine providence. God's unseen hand guides Ruth to Boaz's field, illustrating how God orchestrates events for His purposes, even when they seem coincidental to us.

to the part of the field belonging to Boaz
Boaz's field is significant because Boaz is a man of standing and integrity. The Hebrew word for "part" is "cheleq," indicating a portion or inheritance. This specific field is where God's plan for redemption and blessing begins to unfold for Ruth and Naomi. Boaz's ownership of the field sets the stage for his role as a kinsman-redeemer.

who was from the clan of Elimelech
The mention of Elimelech's clan ties Boaz to Naomi's deceased husband, establishing the legal and familial context for Boaz's potential role as a redeemer. The Hebrew term "mishpachah" for "clan" emphasizes the importance of family and kinship in Israelite society. This connection is crucial for understanding the cultural and legal backdrop of the story, where family loyalty and redemption are central themes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who demonstrates loyalty and faithfulness by staying with her mother-in-law, Naomi, and seeking to provide for them both.

2. Boaz
A wealthy and influential man from Bethlehem, belonging to the clan of Elimelech. He is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband and plays a significant role as a kinsman-redeemer.

3. Field
The setting where Ruth goes to glean. Fields were divided among different owners, and Ruth "happens" to glean in Boaz's field, which is significant for the unfolding of God's providential plan.

4. Gleaning
The act of collecting leftover crops from farmers' fields after they have been harvested. This was a provision in the Law of Moses for the poor and foreigners (Leviticus 19:9-10).

5. Clan of Elimelech
The family line to which both Naomi's deceased husband and Boaz belong, highlighting the potential for Boaz to act as a redeemer for Ruth and Naomi.

Teaching Points

Divine Providence
Ruth's "happening" upon Boaz's field is not mere chance but a demonstration of God's providential care and guidance. We can trust that God is at work in our lives, even in seemingly random events.

Faithfulness in Action
Ruth's decision to glean reflects her commitment to Naomi and her willingness to work hard. Our faith should be demonstrated through our actions and dedication to serving others.

God's Provision for the Vulnerable
The law of gleaning shows God's heart for the poor and the foreigner. As believers, we are called to care for those in need and provide opportunities for them to thrive.

The Role of Community
Boaz's field represents a community that follows God's laws and provides for the less fortunate. We should strive to create communities that reflect God's love and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ruth's decision to glean in the fields demonstrate her character and faith? What can we learn from her example?

2. In what ways do you see God's providence at work in your own life, similar to how Ruth "happened" to glean in Boaz's field?

3. How does the law of gleaning reflect God's care for the marginalized, and how can we apply this principle in our communities today?

4. What role does Boaz play in Ruth's account, and how does this foreshadow the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in the Bible?

5. How can we, as a church or community, create an environment that supports and uplifts those who are vulnerable or in need?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:9-10
This passage outlines the law of gleaning, which provided for the poor and the foreigner, showing God's care for the marginalized.

Proverbs 16:9
This verse speaks to the idea of God's sovereignty in guiding our steps, similar to how Ruth "happened" to glean in Boaz's field.

Romans 8:28
This New Testament verse reflects the theme of God's providence, working all things together for good for those who love Him, as seen in Ruth's account.