What does Ruth 2:3 mean?
"And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the kindred of Elimelech." - Ruth 2:3
The Book of Ruth is one of the most beloved books in the Bible, cherished for its themes of loyalty, love, and faithfulness. In Ruth 2:3, we see the character Ruth, a Moabite woman who chose to follow her mother-in-law Naomi to Bethlehem after the deaths of their husbands. This verse tells us that Ruth decided to glean in the field behind the reapers, and as it turned out, she found herself working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was a relative of Naomi's deceased husband.
The context of this verse takes place during the time of the judges, an era in Israel known for its moral and spiritual decline. The story of Ruth provides a glimmer of hope in the midst of this tumultuous time, as it showcases the faithfulness of a foreign woman and how she became a crucial part of Jesus' genealogy.
To truly understand the meaning and significance of Ruth 2:3, we must first look at the themes present in the book. One of the central themes is loyalty and faithfulness. Ruth's decision to remain by Naomi's side and journey to Bethlehem with her demonstrates her unwavering commitment to her mother-in-law. Despite the challenges and uncertainties she faced, Ruth chose to put her trust in God and stayed faithful to her commitment.
Another theme in Ruth is providence and redemption. As the story unfolds, we see how God's providential care and sovereignty are evident in every twist and turn of the plot. Ruth's decision to glean in Boaz's field was no accident; it was part of God's plan to provide for her and Naomi. This theme of redemption is further emphasized through Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer, a figure who ultimately brings restoration and redemption to Ruth and Naomi.
Now, let's delve into the symbolism present in Ruth 2:3. The act of gleaning itself holds symbolic significance. Gleaning was a practice in ancient Israel where the poor and the marginalized were allowed to gather leftover crops from the fields after the harvest. This act of gleaning serves as a representation of God's care and provision for the vulnerable and marginalized in society. It also serves as a picture of God's abundant grace and generosity, as Ruth found favor in Boaz's field despite her foreigner status.
Additionally, the field belonging to Boaz can be seen as a symbol of God's faithfulness and provision. Boaz, as a relative of Naomi, acts as the instrument of God's providence and care for Ruth and Naomi. The field itself symbolizes a place of abundance, blessing, and refuge for Ruth and Naomi in their time of need.
Ruth 2:3 also highlights the character of Ruth as a diligent and hardworking woman. The fact that she chose to glean behind the reapers speaks to her humility and work ethic. Despite her difficult circumstances, Ruth's willingness to toil in the fields reflects her determination to provide for herself and Naomi. This attribute of Ruth serves as a model for believers, emphasizing the importance of diligence, humility, and industriousness in our own lives.
In conclusion, Ruth 2:3 captures the essence of the entire book of Ruth – a story of loyalty, faithfulness, providence, and redemption. The themes and symbolism present in this verse offer us profound insights into God's character and His care for His people. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful and diligent in the midst of trials and hardships. Ruth's journey is a testament to the power of God's providence and redemption, and her story continues to inspire and encourage believers today.
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Ruth 2:3 Artwork
Ruth 2:3 – "So she went out, entered a field and began to glean behind the harvesters."
Ruth 2:3 - "And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the kindred of Elimelech."
"And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the kindred of Elimelech." - Ruth 2:3
Ruth 3:2 - "And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor."
Ruth 3:9 - "And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman."
Ruth 1:3 - "And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons."
Ruth 2:22 - "And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field."
Ruth 2:2 - "And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter."
Ruth 2:8 - "Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens:"
Ruth 2:21 - "And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest."
Ruth 3:1 - "Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?"
Ruth 3:5 - "And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do."
Ruth 3:8 - "¶ And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet."
Ruth 3:12 - "And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I."
"And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor." - Ruth 3:2
Ruth 3:6 - "¶ And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her."
Ruth 2:15 - "And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not:"
Ruth 2:5 - "Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, Whose damsel is this?"
Ruth 3:17 - "And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law."
Ruth 4:3 - "And he said unto the kinsman, Naomi, that is come again out of the country of Moab, selleth a parcel of land, which was our brother Elimelech's:"
"And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field." - Ruth 2:22
Ruth 3:3 - "Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking."
"And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I." - Ruth 3:12
"And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not:" - Ruth 2:15
"Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day." - Ruth 3:18
Ruth 4:2 - "And he took ten men of the elders of the city, and said, Sit ye down here. And they sat down."
Ruth 2:1 - "And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz."
"And when she came to her mother in law, she said, Who art thou, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done to her." - Ruth 3:16
Ruth 3:11 - "And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman."
Ruth 3:18 - "Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day."