How does Ruth 3:17 demonstrate Boaz's generosity and provision for Ruth's needs? Setting the Scene • Ruth has just followed Naomi’s plan and approached Boaz at the threshing floor (Ruth 3:1–15). • Boaz responds with honor and care, promising to seek her redemption. • Before Ruth heads back to Naomi, he sends her off with a remarkable gift. The Verse in Focus “And she said, ‘He gave me these six measures of barley, for he said, “Do not go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.”’” (Ruth 3:17) Boaz’s Gift: More Than a Courtesy • Six measures of barley—likely around 60–90 pounds—far beyond a token offering. • In an agrarian setting, grain equals life; this is tangible security for two widows. • Boaz’s words stress purpose: “Do not go back…empty-handed,” directly reversing Naomi’s earlier lament, “I went away full, but the LORD has brought me back empty” (Ruth 1:21). Provision on Three Levels 1. Immediate Needs ‑ Food for Ruth and Naomi, meeting the pressing concern of daily bread (Matthew 6:11). 2. Emotional Reassurance ‑ Removes the sting of emptiness Naomi felt, replacing it with hope (Psalm 68:6). 3. Covenant Pledge ‑ Functions like an earnest deposit, signaling Boaz’s intent to complete redemption (Ephesians 1:13-14 speaks of the Spirit as a pledge; Boaz’s grain foreshadows that principle). Echoes of God’s Heart • Boaz obeys the spirit of the gleaning law (Deuteronomy 24:19) but exceeds it, illustrating God “who is able to do immeasurably more” (Ephesians 3:20). • His generosity mirrors the LORD’s character as Shepherd-Provider (Psalm 23:1). • The pattern points forward to Christ, our ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer who supplies “grace upon grace” (John 1:16). Lessons for Today • Generosity is proactive: Boaz doesn’t wait for Ruth to ask; he anticipates need (Philippians 2:4). • Provision can be both practical and symbolic—meeting bodily needs while conveying steadfast love. • Redeemed people are called to reflect this open-handed care: “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). Boaz’s six measures of barley are a concrete testimony that God’s covenant kindness flows through willing hearts, turning emptiness into abundance and securing the future for those who trust Him. |
    |