The Barley Fields of Boaz hold significant importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in the Book of Ruth. These fields are located in Bethlehem, in the region of Judah, and serve as the setting for the unfolding of a redemptive account that highlights themes of loyalty, providence, and divine orchestration.

Biblical Context

The account of the Barley Fields of Boaz is found in the Book of Ruth, which is set during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and spiritual upheaval in Israel. Ruth, a Moabite widow, accompanies her mother-in-law Naomi back to Bethlehem after the death of their husbands. Naomi, originally from Bethlehem, returns to her homeland in a state of destitution and bitterness, lamenting, "The Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me" (Ruth 1:20).

The Practice of Gleaning

Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, Ruth seeks to provide for herself and Naomi by gleaning in the fields during the barley harvest. The practice of gleaning was a provision in the Mosaic Law that allowed the poor and foreigners to gather leftover crops from the fields (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19). This law reflects God's concern for the marginalized and His command for His people to show compassion and generosity.

Boaz: A Man of Valor and Kindness

Boaz, a wealthy and influential landowner, is introduced as "a man of standing" (Ruth 2:1). He is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech, and thus a potential kinsman-redeemer. Boaz's character is immediately evident in his interactions with his workers and with Ruth. He greets his harvesters with a blessing, "The LORD be with you," to which they respond, "The LORD bless you" (Ruth 2:4), indicating a mutual respect and a godly atmosphere in his fields.

When Boaz learns of Ruth's identity and her loyalty to Naomi, he extends kindness and protection to her. He instructs his workers to allow her to glean among the sheaves and even to leave extra grain for her to gather (Ruth 2:15-16). Boaz's actions exemplify the biblical principle of loving-kindness (Hebrew: hesed), which is a central theme in the Book of Ruth.

Ruth's Diligence and Favor

Ruth's diligence in the barley fields does not go unnoticed. Boaz acknowledges her hard work and her devotion to Naomi, saying, "May the LORD repay your work, and may you receive a rich reward from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge" (Ruth 2:12). This blessing foreshadows the unfolding of God's providential plan for Ruth and Naomi.

The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer

The concept of the kinsman-redeemer is pivotal in the narrative. According to the Levirate law, a close relative could redeem a family member in distress by marrying a widow to preserve the family line and property (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Boaz's willingness to fulfill this role for Ruth and Naomi is a testament to his integrity and faithfulness to God's law.

Harvest and Redemption

The barley fields of Boaz become the backdrop for a account of redemption and divine provision. Ruth's gleaning leads to her eventual marriage to Boaz, securing her and Naomi's future. Their union results in the birth of Obed, the grandfather of King David, placing Ruth in the lineage of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5-6).

The Barley Fields of Boaz thus symbolize God's providential care and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through ordinary circumstances and faithful individuals.