Meaning of Ruth 2:9

Boaz, a wealthy landowner, is instructing Ruth, a Moabite widow who has recently arrived in Bethlehem with her mother-in-law Naomi, on how to glean in his fields. Gleaning was a customary practice, mandated by Mosaic Law (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19-21), which allowed the poor and foreigners to gather leftover grain after the harvest. Boaz's instructions are remarkably considerate and protective. He directs Ruth to follow the women harvesters, implying a safer and more appropriate environment for her, and explicitly states he has instructed his male reapers not to molest or interfere with her. Furthermore, he extends hospitality by allowing her to drink from the water jars filled by his workers. This passage highlights Boaz's inherent kindness, his adherence to divine law, and his developing concern for Ruth's well-being, setting the stage for their future relationship.

Context and Background

The book of Ruth unfolds during the period of the Judges, a time characterized by moral and spiritual decline in Israel. Naomi, having lost her husband and two sons in Moab, returns to Bethlehem as a destitute widow with her widowed Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth. Ruth's decision to accompany Naomi and embrace her God and people is a pivotal moment, demonstrating profound loyalty and faith. Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, Naomi is essentially starting from scratch. Ruth, seeking to provide for them, voluntarily goes to glean in the fields, a task that, while permitted by law, was still arduous and potentially exposed her to exploitation. Boaz, a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech, observes Ruth and learns of her identity and circumstances.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Providence and Care: Boaz's intervention is a clear demonstration of God's watchful eye over those who are vulnerable and faithful. Even in difficult circumstances, God orchestrates events and raises up individuals to provide protection and sustenance.
• Justice and Compassion: Boaz's actions embody the spirit of Mosaic Law, which emphasized the protection of the poor, the widow, and the foreigner. His specific instructions to his workers reflect a commitment to ensuring Ruth's safety and dignity.
• Loyalty and Faithfulness: Ruth's initial decision to stay with Naomi and her subsequent diligence in gleaning underscore her unwavering loyalty and faith, which God honors.
• Hospitality and Generosity: Boaz's provision of water and his protection extend beyond mere legal obligation, revealing a generous and compassionate spirit.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse teaches us about the importance of extending kindness and protection to those in need, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable within our communities. It serves as a reminder that God sees and cares for individuals even when they feel forgotten or alone. For believers, it encourages a proactive approach to justice and compassion, mirroring God's own character. It also illustrates how faithfulness, even in humble circumstances, can attract divine favor and lead to unexpected blessings and opportunities for redemption.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

Ruth 2:9 is a crucial stepping stone in the unfolding narrative of redemption that runs throughout the Bible. The book of Ruth, in its entirety, is a foreshadowing of the greater redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer, exemplifies Christ's role as our redeemer. His gracious actions towards Ruth, a foreigner and a widow, mirror Christ's extending of salvation to all who believe, regardless of their background. The lineage established through Ruth and Boaz eventually leads to the Davidic line, and ultimately, to Jesus.

Analogies

One analogy for Boaz's instructions is that of a protective shepherd guiding his flock. He doesn't just allow the sheep to wander; he actively directs them to safe pastures and ensures they have access to water, shielding them from potential predators or dangers. Another analogy is that of a wise and just employer who not only provides work but also ensures the safety and well-being of all his laborers, especially those who are new and vulnerable.

Relation to Other Verses

• Leviticus 19:9-10 & Deuteronomy 24:19-21: These passages from the Mosaic Law explicitly command landowners to leave the gleanings for the poor and foreigners, forming the legal and ethical basis for Ruth's activity and Boaz's magnanimity.
• Psalm 146:9: "The Lord watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked." This psalm directly echoes the theme of God's care for the vulnerable, as exemplified by Boaz's actions towards Ruth.
• Matthew 25:35-40: Jesus' teachings on serving the least of these directly align with the spirit of Boaz's compassion. He states that whatever is done for the least of his brothers and sisters is done for him, highlighting the spiritual significance of caring for the needy.
• Ephesians 2:11-13: This passage speaks of Gentiles (foreigners) being brought into God's covenant through Christ, paralleling Ruth's integration into Israel through her faith and Boaz's protective embrace.