What is the meaning of Ruth 2:22? And Naomi said to her daughter-in-law Ruth • Naomi steps back into the role of spiritual mentor, guiding Ruth just as Jethro guided Moses (Exodus 18:19). • Her words show a pattern of older believers shepherding younger ones, echoing Titus 2:3-5. • In a time when “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25), Naomi’s counsel provides a beacon of covenant wisdom. My daughter • The affectionate address signals deep family bonds created through covenant, not merely blood. Compare Boaz using the same term for Ruth in Ruth 2:8 and Ruth 3:10. • This tenderness reflects God’s own parental care: “As a father has compassion on his children” (Psalm 103:13) and Paul’s gentle approach in 1 Thessalonians 2:7. • By calling her “daughter,” Naomi affirms Ruth’s full inclusion among God’s people (cf. Galatians 3:28—“you are all one in Christ Jesus”). it is good for you to work with his young women • Naomi recognizes Boaz as a man of honor (Ruth 2:1) and sees God’s providential hand in placing Ruth under his protection (Ruth 2:3). • Staying with Boaz’s female workers offers: – Practical provision—steady access to grain (Deuteronomy 24:19). – Fellowship and accountability—“Two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9). – A potential pathway to redemption, hinting at the future kinsman-redeemer theme (Ruth 3:9). • This advice echoes the New Testament call to remain in wholesome company: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). so that nothing will happen to you in another field • Naomi is alert to real dangers—physical harm, harassment, or exploitation—common in the tumultuous days of the Judges. Boaz had already warned the young men not to touch Ruth (Ruth 2:9). • Her concern mirrors the protective heart of God: “The LORD will guard you from all evil” (Psalm 121:7) and Jesus’ prayer, “Protect them from the evil one” (John 17:15). • By urging Ruth to remain, Naomi trusts God’s covenant promise of safety within the boundaries He provides (Proverbs 18:10—“The name of the LORD is a strong tower”). summary Naomi’s counsel in Ruth 2:22 blends loving affection with practical wisdom. She urges Ruth to stay near Boaz’s workers because the Lord has clearly provided both protection and provision through this godly man. The verse reminds believers to value wise mentorship, cherish covenant relationships, seek wholesome community, and trust God’s protective care as we walk in the paths He opens before us. |
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