What is the meaning of Ruth 2:21? Then Ruth the Moabitess said • Ruth identifies herself again as “the Moabitess,” underscoring God’s welcome of a foreigner into His covenant people (Ruth 1:16; cf. Isaiah 56:6–7; Ephesians 2:12–13). • Her speech shows respectful transparency toward Naomi, modeling humble accountability in family life (Ruth 2:10–11). • By speaking first, Ruth honors her mother-in-law, mirroring the biblical call to care for elders (Leviticus 19:32; 1 Timothy 5:4). He also told me, • Ruth relays Boaz’s words exactly, valuing the authority of his instruction (Ruth 2:8). • This demonstrates obedience—she does not embellish or omit, echoing Samuel’s call: “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). • Passing Boaz’s words to Naomi prefigures how believers relay Christ’s words to one another (John 15:12–14; Colossians 3:16). ‘Stay with my young men • In Boaz’s field, the young men reaped while maidens bundled; Boaz invites Ruth nearer the primary workers, granting special protection (Ruth 2:9; Psalm 91:1–2). • The command “stay” echoes Jesus’ call to “abide in Me” (John 15:4–5). Remaining close to the redeemer brings safety and provision. • Boaz’s personal “my” signals ownership and responsibility, reflecting Christ the Redeemer’s care for His own (John 10:28–29). until they have finished gathering all my harvest.’ • The promise covers the full season—barley and wheat (Ruth 2:23)—assuring Ruth day-by-day provision (Matthew 6:31–33). • “Finished” shows Boaz’s commitment to completion, paralleling God’s pledge to finish His work in us (Philippians 1:6). • “All my harvest” reminds us that every blessing belongs to the Lord of the harvest (Psalm 24:1; James 1:17); we receive by grace. • The scope anticipates Boaz’s ultimate role as kinsman-redeemer in chapter 4, hinting at Christ’s complete redemption (Hebrews 7:25). summary Ruth 2:21 records Ruth faithfully reporting Boaz’s gracious instruction. Each phrase highlights God’s inclusive love, the safety of obedience, the blessing of abiding near the redeemer, and the certainty that His provision lasts until the work is fully done. |
    |