The Verse
King James Version (KJV): And the servant that was set over the reapers answered and said, It is the Moabitish damsel that came back with Naomi out of the country of Moab:
New International Version (NIV): The overseer replied, “She is the Moabite who came back from Moab with Naomi.”
English Standard Version (ESV): And the servant who was in charge of the reapers answered, “She is the young Moabite woman, who came back with Naomi from the country of Moab.”
Introduction
How wonderful it is when someone notices us, acknowledges us, and shows interest in our well-being. The second chapter of Ruth captures one such special moment when Boaz, a man of great reputation and wealth, takes notice of Ruth, an unnoticed, foreign widowed woman, working in his fields. It is a significant moment in biblical history, as this interaction lay the foundation for one of the greatest love stories in the Bible, a tale of redemption and grace.
Historical Context
The Book of Ruth is a beautiful narrative set during the time of the Judges, a period marked by great suffering and unfaithfulness to God among the Israelites. However, Ruth stands out as a beacon of faithfulness and loyalty. Ruth, a Moabite woman, chose to follow her mother-in-law Naomi, an Israelite, back to Israel after both their husbands died. Ruth 2:6 unfolds in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband, where Ruth, out of necessity, was gleaning leftover grains.
Key Word Analysis
The main phrase we are going to analyze is “the Moabitish damsel”. The word Moabitish derived from the Hebrew word מוֹאָבִי Mo’abiy, points directly to Ruth’s foreign origin. The term damsel, translated from the Hebrew word נַעֲרָה na`arah, signifies a young, unmarried woman. In using these terms, the servant highlights Ruth’s vulnerability and outsider status.
Spiritual Insight
Ruth 2:6 embodies God’s divine providence and grace. Ruth, a foreigner and a widow, was noticed by Boaz, and her life was transformed. Despite her foreign origin and low social status, Ruth was seen and valued. This verse encourages us that God sees and values each one of us, irrespective of our backgrounds or circumstances.
Life Application
In our daily lives, we should strive to be like Boaz – to see and value others, especially those who are vulnerable or marginalized. Let us remember to extend compassion, grace, and generosity to all people, just as God does for us.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“Beloved, remember the story of Ruth. Like Boaz, I see you and value you, no matter your circumstances or origin. You are precious in My sight and I have great plans for you. Do not be discouraged, for I am with you. Strive to see others as I see you, with love and compassion.”
Prayer Prompt
Lord, thank You that You see us and value us like Boaz did Ruth. Teach us to show the same kindness and compassion to others, especially those who are marginalized or vulnerable. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Who is the Moabite woman referred to in Ruth 2:6?
Ans: The Moabite woman referred to in Ruth 2:6 is Ruth, who was a Moabite. She had followed her mother-in-law Naomi back to Israel after the death of her husband.
Ques: Why was Ruth gleaning in the fields?
Ans: Ruth was gleaning in the fields to provide food for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. As a widow and foreigner, she had limited means to support herself.
Ques: Who is Boaz?
Ans: Boaz is a wealthy landowner, a relative of Elimelech, Naomi’s deceased husband. He eventually marries Ruth, and they become the great-grandparents of King David.
Ques: What is the significance of Ruth being a Moabite?
Ans: Ruth being a Moabite is significant because Moabites were often looked down upon by Israelites. Despite this, Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her faithfulness to God led to her being accepted and blessed.
Related Verses
Ruth 1:16: But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” This verse reveals Ruth’s steadfast loyalty and faith in God.
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.” This verse foreshadows Ruth’s reward for her faithfulness.
Ruth 4:13: So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. This verse shows the culmination of Ruth’s story, where she becomes part of the lineage of Jesus.
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