The Verse
King James Version (KJV): And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man’s name with whom I wrought to day is Boaz.
New International Version (NIV): “Where did you glean today? Where did you work? Blessed be the man who took notice of you!” Then she told her mother-in-law about the one at whose place she had been working. “The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz,” she said.
English Standard Version (ESV): And her mother-in-law said to her, “Where did you glean today? And where have you worked? Blessed be the man who took notice of you.” So she told her mother-in-law with whom she had worked and said, “The man’s name with whom I worked today is Boaz.”
Introduction
This verse paints a vivid scene from the Book of Ruth, found amidst a compelling narrative about faith, providence, and God’s unfailing love. Ruth, a Moabite woman, chooses to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and brother-in-law. Displaying an unwavering commitment to Naomi and her faith in God, Ruth embarks on a journey that eventually leads her to Boaz’s field. This verse gives us a glimpse into the divine orchestration that led Ruth to glean in the field of Boaz, a close kinsman and future husband.
Historical Context
Ruth, the book’s author, is unknown, but it is believed to have been written during the time of the Judges or the early monarchy. It provides a historical account of David’s ancestry and, ultimately, the lineage of Jesus Christ. The verse under consideration is set in a time of desperation and uncertainty for Ruth and Naomi. However, it also heralds the beginning of a significant turning point in their lives.
Key Word Analysis
The Hebrew word for “took notice” or “did take knowledge” is “nakar,” meaning to recognize, acknowledge or consider. “Blessed” in Hebrew is “barak,” often used to express a wish or prayer for the welfare and prosperity of the person. “Gleaned” or “wrought” is “laqat,” denoting the act of gathering leftovers after a harvest, a provision God made for the poor and foreigners.
Spiritual Insight
This verse subtly reveals God’s providence and care for His people, even in their darkest times. Boaz’s act of noticing and showing kindness to Ruth, a foreigner and a widow, demonstrates God’s heart for the vulnerable. By weaving Ruth into the lineage of Jesus Christ, God reveals His inclusive and redemptive love for all, not just Israel.
Life Application
As modern readers, we can apply this verse by acknowledging God’s hand in our lives, even when things seem bleak. It encourages us to extend kindness and care to those who are marginalized and vulnerable, reflecting the love and compassion of God. Recognizing and being grateful for those who “take notice” of us is another key takeaway.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“My child, know that your journey is under my care, even in hardships and loss. Like Ruth, you may not understand the full picture now, but trust in my love and providence. Blessed are those who show kindness and take notice of the vulnerable. For in them, my love shines brightest.”
Prayer Prompt
Lord, help us recognize Your hand in our lives, especially during challenging times. May we extend kindness and love to the vulnerable, reflecting Your heart. Thank you for the people who take notice of us and bless our lives. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Who was Boaz in relation to Ruth?
Ans: Boaz was a close relative of Naomi’s deceased husband and later became Ruth’s husband.
Ques: What does it mean to glean?
Ans: Gleaning refers to the practice of gathering leftovers from a harvest, a provision God made for the poor and foreigners.
Ques: What does Ruth’s story show about God’s love?
Ans: Ruth’s story reveals God’s love is inclusive, redemptive, and constantly at work, even in hard times.
Ques: How does Ruth’s story connect to Jesus?
Ans: Ruth and Boaz became the great-grandparents of King David, linking the story of Ruth to the lineage of Jesus Christ.
Related Verses
Matthew 1:5: Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse.
Leviticus 19:9-10: God’s command to leave some harvest for the poor and foreigner, reflecting Ruth’s gleaning activity.
Ruth 1:16-17: Ruth’s commitment to Naomi and her faith, setting the stage for the story.
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