Ruth and Boaz: A Meeting of Kindness and Providence

Ruth 2 expands the narrative by introducing Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband, Elimelek. This chapter highlights the virtues of kindness, the dignity of labor, and God’s providential care through the interactions between Ruth and Boaz.

Ruth’s Initiative and Work in the Fields

• Ruth’s Gleaning: Ruth decides to glean in the fields during the barley harvest to provide for herself and Naomi. This act of gleaning—picking up leftover grain—was permitted under Israelite law to support the poor and vulnerable. Ruth ends up in the field of Boaz, unknowingly choosing a place where she will find favor (Ruth 2:1-3).

Boaz’s Kindness

• Boaz’s Arrival and Inquiry: Boaz, a man of wealth and standing, arrives from Bethlehem and notices Ruth working in his fields. Struck by her dedication and possibly her foreign appearance, he inquires about her identity. Upon learning about her relationship with Naomi and her Moabite background, instead of dismissal or disdain, Boaz responds with incredible kindness and respect (Ruth 2:4-7).
• Protection and Generosity: Boaz speaks directly to Ruth, offering her protection and permission to glean more efficiently by staying close to his servant girls. He ensures her safety and even invites her to drink water freely, a gesture of significant hospitality (Ruth 2:8-9).
• Meal and Abundance: Boaz invites Ruth to eat with his workers, a further sign of favor, and instructs his workers to leave extra grain deliberately for her to glean, easing her labor and increasing her collection (Ruth 2:14-16).

Ruth and Naomi: The Day’s Bounty

• Ruth’s Return to Naomi: Ruth returns to Naomi with an abundance of barley, approximately an ephah (about 22 liters), a substantial amount demonstrating Boaz’s generosity. Naomi is amazed and inquires where Ruth gleaned, recognizing God’s hand at work when Ruth mentions Boaz (Ruth 2:17-19).
• Naomi’s Revelation: Naomi blesses Boaz, recognizing his kindness as part of God’s provision. She explains that Boaz is a close relative, a potential ‘kinsman-redeemer,’ a role outlined in Israelite law to support relatives in dire need (Ruth 2:20).

Theological Significance and Connection to Jesus Christ

Christological Echoes

• Boaz as a Christ Figure: Boaz serves as a Christ-like figure in his actions towards Ruth. He extends grace, provision, and protection to a foreigner and a widow, reflecting Jesus Christ’s inclusivity, provision, and redemption for those outside of Israel.
• Redemptive Plan: The budding relationship between Ruth and Boaz hints at the redemptive plan that will unfold through their lineage, culminating in the birth of Jesus Christ. This lineage underscores God’s plan working through unexpected people and situations.

Divine Love and Its Implications

• Provision and Care: Boaz’s actions reflect God’s love and care, providing not only physical sustenance but also social protection and dignity. This mirrors how God cares for all His creations, providing for their needs and ensuring their protection.

Contemporary Relevance

Why Ruth 2 Still Matters Today

• Ethics of Generosity and Protection: The chapter promotes an ethic of generosity and protection for the vulnerable, challenging individuals and communities to consider how they might reflect God’s love through practical, compassionate actions.
• Value of Hard Work and Integrity: Ruth’s story highlights the dignity of labor and the virtues of hard work and integrity, serving as an inspiration for all who face difficult circumstances but strive to maintain dignity and purpose.
• Community Responsibility: Boaz’s behavior exemplifies the impact of personal actions on community welfare. His example encourages a societal attitude that upholds kindness, justice, and mutual support.

Ruth 2 offers a compelling illustration of how individual kindness and systemic provisions for the needy can coalesce into a powerful expression of divine love and human compassion, themes as relevant today as they were in ancient times.