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Ruth 2

23 verses

TL;DR

Ruth seeks food in Boaz’s field and is welcomed, protected, and provisioned, showing the kindness of a kinsman.

Summary

After Naomi’s family is struck with poverty, Ruth decides to glean in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband. Boaz notices Ruth’s plight, welcomes her, and instructs his workers to let her gather among the reapers and in the sheaves. He also gives her extra grain and water, ensuring she is not harassed. Ruth gathers an ephah of barley, shares the harvest with Naomi, and continues to work in Boaz’s field through the barley and wheat seasons. The chapter highlights Boaz’s generosity and Ruth’s faithfulness, setting the stage for their future relationship.

Outline
  1. Ruth’s decision to glean in Boaz’s field and Boaz’s initial encounter with her.
  2. Boaz’s protection of Ruth, granting her access to grain and water.
  3. Ruth’s harvest, sharing with Naomi, and continued gleaning until harvest completion.
Themes
Kindness and hospitality of a kinsmanFaithful obedience in times of needProvision and protection of the vulnerable
Keywords
gleankindnessBoazRuthNaomireaperssheavesbarleycornvinegarprovisionkinship
People
NaomiBoazRuthElimelech (implied)Reapers (group)Young menServant
Places
BethlehemMoabthe citythe field
Things
gleaningears of cornbarleysheavesreapersmaidensyoung menparched cornbreadvinegarephah
Key Verses
  • Ruth 2:1: Introduces Boaz as the pivotal kinsman who will demonstrate generosity.
  • Ruth 2:7: Shows Ruth’s proactive request for provision and her willingness to work.
  • Ruth 2:9: Boaz’s direct command to protect Ruth and allow her to glean freely.
  • Ruth 2:15: Illustrates Boaz’s continued support by enabling Ruth to gather among the sheaves.
  • Ruth 2:17: Provides tangible evidence of Ruth’s harvest and the generosity she received.
Questions
  • What does Boaz’s response to Ruth teach about hospitality in a community?
  • How does Ruth’s willingness to glean reflect her trust in God’s provision?
  • In what ways does the relationship between Ruth and Boaz demonstrate the broader covenant theme?
  • How does the text portray the interaction between a foreigner and the Israelite community?
  • What lessons can be drawn from Ruth’s perseverance during the harvest season?
Sentiment

positive
The chapter highlights acts of generosity, protection, and faith.