Topical Encyclopedia Gleaning is an ancient practice rooted in the agricultural laws of Israel, as outlined in the Mosaic Law. It was a form of social welfare designed to provide for the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the foreigner. The practice is most vividly illustrated in the Book of Ruth, where Ruth, a Moabite widow, gleans in the fields of Boaz.Biblical Context and Law The concept of gleaning is established in Leviticus 19:9-10 and Deuteronomy 24:19-22. These passages command landowners not to harvest the edges of their fields or pick up what is left behind, allowing the poor and the foreigner to gather food. This law reflects God's compassion and provision for the marginalized in society. Ruth's Story The Book of Ruth, set during the time of the Judges, tells the account of Naomi, an Israelite woman, and her Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth. After the death of their husbands, Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem in Judah. As widows, they are vulnerable and in need of sustenance. Ruth 2:2-3 states, "And Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, 'Please let me go into the fields and glean heads of grain after someone in whose sight I may find favor.' 'Go ahead, my daughter,' Naomi replied. So Ruth departed and went out into the field and gleaned after the harvesters. And she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelech." Boaz's Kindness Boaz, a relative of Naomi's late husband, is introduced as a man of standing and integrity. Upon noticing Ruth, he inquires about her and learns of her loyalty to Naomi. Boaz extends kindness and protection to Ruth, instructing his workers to allow her to glean among the sheaves and even to leave extra grain for her to gather. Ruth 2:8-9 records Boaz's words: "Then Boaz said to Ruth, 'Listen, my daughter. Do not go and glean in another field, and do not go away from here. Stay here with my servant girls. Let your eyes be on the field they are harvesting, and follow along after these girls. I have ordered the young men not to touch you. And when you are thirsty, go and drink from the jars the young men have filled.'" Significance and Themes The account of Ruth gleaning in Boaz's field highlights several key themes: 1. Providence and Sovereignty: Ruth's arrival in Boaz's field is depicted as a divinely orchestrated event, showcasing God's providence in the lives of His people. 2. Kindness and Redemption: Boaz's actions reflect the character of a kinsman-redeemer, a role that foreshadows the ultimate redemption found in Christ. His kindness to Ruth, a foreigner, exemplifies the inclusive nature of God's love. 3. Faithfulness and Loyalty: Ruth's dedication to Naomi and her willingness to work hard for their sustenance demonstrate her faithfulness and loyalty, qualities that are honored by God. 4. Social Justice and Care for the Vulnerable: The practice of gleaning underscores the biblical mandate for social justice and care for the vulnerable, reminding believers of their responsibility to support those in need. The account of Ruth gleaning in the field of Boaz is a powerful narrative of God's provision, human kindness, and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through ordinary lives. Nave's Topical Index Ruth 2:2,3And Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said to her, Go, my daughter. Nave's Topical Index Library Boaz and Ruth. The Story of Ruth, the Gleaner Ruth Ruth, the Gleaner Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... The Land and the People. Resources What is the meaning of gleaning in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgTopical: Biblical Culture ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Who was Ruth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Gleaning: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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