Meaning of Ruth 2:19

This verse marks a pivotal moment in Ruth's story, as it directly reveals the identity of the benefactor who showed her kindness. Naomi, her mother-in-law, inquires about Ruth's day, not out of idle curiosity, but with a deep concern for her well-being and a hope that her efforts have yielded some provision. The exclamation, "Blessed be the man who took notice of you!" reveals Naomi's understanding that a stranger's generosity, especially towards a foreigner and a widow like Ruth, is a divine blessing, an act of God's providence. Ruth's answer, naming Boaz, introduces the central male figure in the narrative and sets the stage for the unfolding relationship and the eventual redemption of Naomi's family line.

Context and Background

The preceding chapters establish Ruth's profound loyalty to Naomi and her willingness to leave her homeland and embrace the God of Israel. Having arrived in Bethlehem as a destitute widow, Ruth's only recourse for survival was to glean in the fields, a practice permitted by Mosaic Law for the poor and the stranger (Leviticus 19:9-10, Deuteronomy 24:19-21). The narrative in Ruth 2:1-18 details her encounter with Boaz, a wealthy landowner and kinsman of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. Boaz, upon learning of Ruth's identity and her diligent work, extended extraordinary favor to her, instructing his reapers to leave extra grain for her and forbidding anyone to disturb her. This verse occurs immediately after Ruth's return to Naomi, her meager but significant harvest in hand.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Providence: The verse highlights how God works through human actions to provide for those in need. Boaz's "taking notice" is not merely a random act of kindness but is perceived by Naomi as a divinely orchestrated blessing.
• Loyalty and Diligence: Ruth's unwavering loyalty to Naomi and her diligent work in the fields are the direct catalysts for Boaz's notice and subsequent protection. Her character is further illuminated by her honest reporting of the day's events.
• Generosity and Compassion: Boaz embodies the ideal of a compassionate and generous individual, particularly towards the vulnerable. His actions demonstrate a deep understanding of ethical and religious obligations.
• The Importance of Identity: Ruth's revealing Boaz's name is crucial. It shifts the focus from a nameless benefactor to a specific individual with potential familial ties and responsibilities.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This passage speaks to the principle that God often uses ordinary circumstances and people to bring about extraordinary provision and blessing. Ruth's faithfulness in a difficult situation opened a door for divine intervention through Boaz. For believers today, it encourages perseverance in difficult times, knowing that God can work through unexpected avenues. It also emphasizes the value of honesty and open communication, as Ruth openly shares her experience with Naomi. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of recognizing and appreciating the kindness of others, attributing it ultimately to God's grace.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

Ruth's story is a crucial bridge in the Old Testament, illustrating God's faithfulness to His covenant people even in times of apostasy and exile. The book of Ruth serves as a prequel to the lineage of King David, and Boaz, through his union with Ruth, becomes David's great-grandfather. This verse, therefore, is a critical step in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, demonstrating how a Moabite foreigner could become an integral part of the messianic lineage. It showcases God's inclusive grace, extending His favor beyond the borders of Israel.

Analogies

One analogy for this situation is a struggling student who diligently studies and participates in class, and whose effort catches the eye of a professor who then offers them a valuable research assistant position, providing both financial support and invaluable experience. Another is a small business owner who consistently demonstrates integrity and quality, attracting the attention of a larger corporation that sees potential and offers a strategic partnership. In both cases, diligent effort and positive character lead to unexpected opportunities and support.

Relation to Other Verses

• Leviticus 19:9-10 & Deuteronomy 24:19-21: These passages from the Law explicitly command landowners to leave gleanings for the poor and strangers, providing the legal and ethical framework for Ruth's actions and Boaz's generosity.
• Ruth 2:14-16: These verses detail Boaz's specific instructions to his workers to favor Ruth, laying the groundwork for Naomi's question and Ruth's answer in verse 19.
• Ruth 3:11: Naomi's later encouragement to Ruth, "My daughter, I will seek a home for you," directly stems from the positive report of Boaz's character and actions revealed here.
• Matthew 1:5: This verse in the genealogy of Jesus explicitly names Boaz as the father of Obed by Ruth, cementing the significance of this encounter in salvation history.