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Ruth 2:5 Meaning & Commentary

Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, Whose damsel is this?

Ruth 2:5, King James Version

Introduction

Whenever we come across a piece of scripture, it is important to remember that every verse holds a significant place in the grand narrative of God’s divine plan. Ruth 2:5, at first glance, may seem like a simple question from Boaz, but it sets in motion a chain of events that leads to a profound love story, one that brings hope, redemption, and points us toward the lineage of Jesus Christ. This simple question, “Who is that young woman?” carries with it a profound spiritual significance.

Historical Context

The book of Ruth is set during the time of the Judges, a period marked by social and moral chaos. Ruth, a Moabite woman, chooses to follow her mother-in-law Naomi back to Israel after the death of her husband. The second chapter introduces us to Boaz, a relative of Naomi, who owns fields where Ruth gleans to support herself and Naomi. This verse raises the curiosity of Boaz about the young, foreign woman working in his fields.

Key Word Analysis

The key words in this verse include “Boaz”, “servant”, “reapers”, and “damsel/young woman”. “Boaz” means “in him is strength”, pointing to his role as a kinsman-redeemer. The “servant” and “reapers” point to the agricultural context of the story. The word “damsel/young woman” refers to Ruth, whose name means “friendship”, and who embodies loyalty and faithfulness throughout the narrative.

Spiritual Insight

This verse reveals the providential care of God. Ruth, a foreigner in a strange land, finds favor in the eyes of Boaz. This reflects God’s heart for the alien, the fatherless, and the widow, and His providence in leading Ruth to Boaz’s field. It also foreshadows the redeeming work of Jesus, the ultimate kinsman-redeemer.

Life Application

In our daily lives, we can take comfort in the assurance of God’s providence. Just as Ruth was led to Boaz’s field, we too are guided by God in our journey. Like Boaz, let us be attentive and kind to those around us, especially to the strangers and the needy in our midst.

What Jesus Might Say About This Verse

A devotional reflection written in the voice of Jesus. These are not words quoted from Scripture.

“My child, remember, I see you in your field. Like Boaz recognized Ruth, I recognize you. You are valuable to me. I have a purpose for your life. Trust in me, and I will guide your journey, just as I guided Ruth’s.”

Prayer Prompt

Lord, thank You for Your providence in our lives. Help us to trust in Your guidance, and give us eyes to see those who may be in need around us. Like Ruth and Boaz, may we be instruments of Your love and grace. Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Boaz?
Boaz was a wealthy landowner and relative of Naomi’s late husband. He later marries Ruth and becomes one of the ancestors of Jesus.
Why was Ruth in Boaz’s field?
Ruth was gleaning in Boaz’s field to support herself and her mother-in-law Naomi.
How does this verse relate to God’s providence?
This verse shows God leading Ruth to the field of Boaz, setting in motion events that bring about their marriage and the continuation of the lineage leading to Jesus.
How is Jesus foreshadowed in this verse?
Boaz, as a kinsman-redeemer who takes Ruth under his care, foreshadows Jesus, our ultimate redeemer.

Ruth 2:12: May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.
Ruth 4:13-14: So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. The Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.
Matthew 1:5-6: Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of King David.

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