Ruth 3:15 – “He also said, ‘Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.’ When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he went back to town.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Ruth 3:15, Boaz continues to care for Ruth after their encounter at the threshing floor by giving her a generous gift of barley. He asks Ruth to bring her shawl and hold it out, and he fills it with six measures of barley—a significant amount that would have been heavy and valuable. This gesture was more than just an act of kindness; it was a practical way of providing for Ruth and Naomi, ensuring they had enough food. Boaz’s gift was both a symbol of his commitment to take care of Ruth and a tangible blessing that would sustain her and her mother-in-law. After this, Boaz returns to town to handle the matter of the closer redeemer, showing his determination to resolve the situation properly.
Historical Context
The setting of this verse is during the barley harvest in ancient Israel, a time when food security was crucial, especially for widows like Ruth and Naomi who had no male provider. Boaz’s gift of barley was not only generous but also a sign of his willingness to care for Ruth in a tangible way, reflecting the customs of hospitality and provision that were highly valued in that culture. The amount of barley given would have been heavy, indicating Boaz’s strength and his deep care for Ruth’s well-being. His actions show respect for the cultural norms of providing for those in need, especially within the extended family.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Ruth 3:15 demonstrates God’s provision through human actions. Boaz’s generosity reflects God’s heart to meet the needs of His people, often through the kindness of others. This verse shows that God cares about the practical details of our lives, providing not just spiritual blessings but also meeting our physical needs. Boaz’s actions remind us that God’s provision can come in unexpected ways and that He uses people around us to bless and care for us. The gift of barley symbolizes abundance and God’s faithfulness to provide more than enough for those who trust in Him.
Literary Analysis
This verse uses simple yet vivid imagery to capture the moment of Boaz’s generosity. The act of pouring barley into Ruth’s shawl is a visual display of kindness, emphasizing Boaz’s role as a provider. The narrative highlights the physical effort involved, as Ruth must carry the heavy load back to Naomi, symbolizing the burden and blessing of provision. Boaz’s actions are quiet but significant, demonstrating his character without words. The phrase “Then he went back to town” subtly shifts the scene, pointing to Boaz’s next steps in resolving Ruth’s situation while maintaining the flow of the story.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 11:25: Speaks of the generous person prospering, which reflects Boaz’s spirit of generosity toward Ruth.
- 2 Corinthians 9:8: Highlights God’s ability to provide abundantly, echoing the overflow of Boaz’s gift to Ruth.
- Psalm 23:5: “My cup overflows” captures the idea of God’s provision, much like the overflowing shawl of barley given to Ruth.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Ruth 3:15 serves as a reminder of the importance of generosity and practical care for others. Boaz’s actions encourage us to look for ways to bless those in need, providing not just words of encouragement but tangible help that meets real needs. This verse teaches us that our acts of kindness, no matter how simple, can be powerful expressions of God’s love. It also challenges us to trust that God sees our needs and can provide through unexpected sources, just as He did for Ruth and Naomi.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Ruth 3:15 reflects God’s loving nature through the generosity of Boaz. God’s love is practical; He meets our needs in ways that often surprise us. Just as Boaz filled Ruth’s shawl with barley, God fills our lives with His blessings, providing for us in ways that go beyond our immediate needs. This verse illustrates that God cares deeply about every aspect of our lives, from the spiritual to the physical, and that His love often comes through the actions of those around us.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate provider who meets all our needs. Just as Boaz poured out blessings on Ruth, Jesus pours out grace, provision, and care for His followers. Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35), offering not just physical sustenance but spiritual fulfillment that never runs dry. Boaz’s act of filling Ruth’s shawl foreshadows how Christ abundantly provides for His people, giving us more than we could ever ask or imagine.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you show generosity to others in practical ways, following Boaz’s example of care and provision?
- What does this verse teach you about God’s ability to meet your needs through unexpected means?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s provision in your life, and how can you extend that blessing to those around you?