The Verse
King James Version (KJV): And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not.
New International Version (NIV): Even pull out some stalks for her from the bundles and leave them for her to pick up, and don’t rebuke her.
English Standard Version (ESV): But you shall pull out some for her from the bundles, and leave it for her to glean, and do not rebuke her.
Introduction
At first glance, Ruth 2:16 may appear to be a simple command given by Boaz, a landowner, to his workers. However, the verse carries profound wisdom and symbolism for those who delve deeper into its context and message. It is not merely an instruction, but a beautiful act of kindness, generosity, and protection intended for Ruth, a foreign widow, struggling to fend for her family.
Within this verse lies a powerful representation of God’s grace, His provision, and His unwavering concern for the marginalized. It encapsulates the Christian principle of love and compassion extended towards those in need, paralleling the grace we receive from God.
Historical Context
The Book of Ruth belongs to the Old Testament and is a tale set during the time of the Judges, a period characterized by moral decline and social chaos. Ruth, a Moabite woman, demonstrated exceptional loyalty to her widowed mother-in-law, Naomi, by choosing to leave her homeland to support Naomi in Bethlehem. Ruth 2:16 is part of Boaz’s instructions to his workers to deliberately leave behind grain for Ruth to glean, ensuring her survival.
Key Word Analysis
1. Let fall: This phrase represents intentional actions, not accidental happenings, echoing God’s deliberate acts of grace towards us.
2. Handfuls of purpose: The phrase in the original Hebrew text, is “melumad”, which means trained or accustomed to, indicating an intentional act of kindness.
3. Rebuke her not: This indicates Boaz’s protective attitude over Ruth, foreshadowing God’s protection over His people.
Spiritual Insight
This verse beautifully illustrates God’s unmerited favor, His ‘handfuls of purpose’ for us. Just as Boaz instructed his workers to leave behind grain for Ruth, God intentionally bestows upon us His blessings for our sustenance. It also reveals God’s heart for the marginalized and His protective nature over His children.
Life Application
As modern readers, we can apply this verse by intentionally extending acts of kindness and compassion towards those around us, especially the marginalized. Just like Boaz, we should strive to provide for and protect those in need, reflecting God’s love and grace in our actions.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“My beloved, like Ruth, you may be in a place of need, feeling vulnerable and alone. But remember, as Boaz provided for Ruth, I am your provider too. Let this verse encourage you to trust in My provision. Likewise, extend My love and grace to those around you, just as you have received.”
Prayer Prompt
Lord, thank You for Your constant provision and protection. Help us to trust in Your plan for us and strengthen our hearts to extend love and grace to those in need. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Why did Boaz instruct his workers to leave grain for Ruth?
Ans: Ruth was a foreigner and a widow, marginalized and vulnerable. Boaz’s act was one of kindness, protection and provision, embodying God’s love for the marginalized.
Ques: What is the spiritual significance of this verse?
Ans: The verse signifies God’s intentional provision and protection for His children, akin to the ‘handfuls of purpose’ that Boaz left for Ruth.
Ques: How can we apply this verse to our lives?
Ans: We can apply this verse by showing intentional kindness and compassion to those in need, mirroring God’s love and grace in our actions.
Ques: What does ‘handfuls of purpose’ mean?
Ans: ‘Handfuls of purpose’ symbolizes intentional acts of kindness and provision, representing God’s deliberate blessings for us.
Related Verses
Matthew 25:40: The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – It underscores the value of showing kindness to the marginalized.
Psalm 68:5: A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. – It highlights God’s protective nature, akin to Boaz’s protection over Ruth.
2 Corinthians 9:8: And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. – It emphasizes God’s constant provision for us.
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