The Verse
King James Version (KJV): So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley.
New International Version (NIV): So Ruth gleaned in the field until evening. Then she threshed the barley she had gathered, and it amounted to about an ephah.
English Standard Version (ESV): So she gleaned in the field until evening. Then she beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley.
Introduction
At the heart of the Book of Ruth is a beautiful story of redemption, faithfulness, and love. Ruth 2:17 depicts a critical moment in this narrative where our titular character, Ruth, is seen gleaning the fields of Boaz until evening. It is a story of relentless dedication and hard work, and a reminder that God’s provision often comes through our own diligence and perseverance.
Historical Context
The Book of Ruth is a part of the Historical Books of the Old Testament, set during the time of the Judges. Ruth, a Moabite woman, decides to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi, after both their husbands die. Ruth’s faithfulness to Naomi and her diligent work in Boaz’s fields lead her into the lineage of King David, and ultimately Jesus Christ.
Key Word Analysis
Gleaned: The Hebrew word for gleaned is “laqat,” meaning to pick up, gather, collect, or harvest. It refers to the practice of leaving behind some crops for the poor and strangers to collect (Leviticus 19:9-10).
Ephah: An Ephah is an ancient Hebrew unit of dry measure, equivalent to about 3/5 of a bushel.
Evening: This denotes Ruth’s hard work and dedication. She worked from morning until evening, demonstrating her commitment and perseverance.
Spiritual Insight
This verse reveals God’s providence and His care for the marginalized in society. God uses the law of gleaning to provide for Ruth and Naomi, and Ruth’s diligence is rewarded with an abundance of grain.
Life Application
Like Ruth, we should demonstrate diligence and perseverance in our work and faith. God often provides for us through our hard work and faithfulness. We should also remember to care for those on the margins of society, as Boaz did for Ruth.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“My child, remember that I am always with you, even in your struggles. Like Ruth, your diligence and faithfulness are not in vain, but will bear fruit in due season. Show love and kindness to those less fortunate, for in doing so, you reflect my love to the world.”
Prayer Prompt
Lord, help us to see you in our daily work and struggles. Give us the strength to persevere in difficulties, and the heart to care for those less fortunate. May we trust in your provision, as Ruth did. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What is the significance of Ruth gleaning in the fields of Boaz?
Ans: It signifies her hard work and dedication. It also shows how God provided for Ruth and Naomi through the law of gleaning.
Ques: What does an Ephah of barley represents?
Ans: An Ephah is an ancient measure of dry goods. It indicates the abundance of the harvest Ruth collected through her diligent work.
Ques: Why is this verse important in the story of Ruth?
Ans: It signifies a turning point where Ruth’s hard work yields provision, leading her closer to her eventual marriage to Boaz.
Ques: How can we apply this verse in our daily life?
Ans: We can apply it by showing diligence and dedication in our work and faith. We should also care for those less fortunate, reflecting God’s love in our actions.
Related Verses
Leviticus 19:9-10: “When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and for the foreigner residing among you. I am the LORD your God.”
Ruth 2:15-16: Boaz commanded his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her. Also pull out some from the bundles for her and leave it for her to glean, and do not rebuke her.”
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.'”
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