What is the meaning of Ruth 2:15? When Ruth got up to glean Ruth 2:15 opens with “When Ruth got up to glean….” • Gleaning was God’s built-in safety net for the poor and foreigners (see Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19). Ruth, a Moabite widow, takes hold of that promise with humble industry. • Her rising “to glean” shows diligence much like the woman praised in Proverbs 31:13-17, who “rises while it is still night and provides food for her household.” • The verse reminds us that God often meets needs through faithful effort rather than passivity (compare 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12). Boaz ordered his young men “…Boaz ordered his young men…” • Boaz, the landowner, actively oversees the welfare of those in his field. His leadership echoes Psalm 91:11, where the Lord “commands His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” • By intervening, Boaz models godly responsibility (1 Timothy 5:8) and anticipates the Good Shepherd motif later fulfilled in Christ (John 10:11). • His order also sets a tone of kindness in the workplace, a principle reinforced in Colossians 4:1—“Masters, grant your slaves what is right and fair.” Even if she gathers among the sheaves “Even if she gathers among the sheaves…” • Normally gleaners stayed on the field edges; the sheaves belonged to the reapers. Boaz extends Ruth’s privilege to the very heart of the harvest. • This generous permission reflects Deuteronomy 24:19, where God promises blessing to those who leave bundles for the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow. • The scene illustrates God’s abundance toward those who trust Him—“God is able to make every grace overflow to you” (2 Corinthians 9:8) and “far beyond all we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20). Do not insult her “…do not insult her.” • Boaz guards Ruth’s dignity, refusing to allow teasing, shaming, or harassment. Proverbs 14:31 warns, “Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker.” • His command anticipates James 2:1-4, which forbids showing favoritism or dishonoring the poor. • Respect for every image-bearer remains a hallmark of covenant living; Colossians 3:12 calls believers to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” summary Ruth 2:15 paints a picture of divine provision and human kindness working together. Ruth steps out in faith to glean; Boaz exercises protective authority; extraordinary grace allows her into the sheaves; firm instruction shields her from insult. The verse underscores God’s heart for the vulnerable and invites His people to mirror that heart with generous, respectful action. |
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