Ruth 2:11

KJV

And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and [how] thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Boaz {H1162} answered {H6030} and said {H559} unto her, It hath fully {H5046} been shewed {H5046} me, all that thou hast done {H6213} unto thy mother in law {H2545} since {H310} the death {H4194} of thine husband {H376}: and how thou hast left {H5800} thy father {H1} and thy mother {H517}, and the land {H776} of thy nativity {H4138}, and art come {H3212} unto a people {H5971} which thou knewest {H3045} not heretofore {H8543}{H8032}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Bo'az answered her, "I've heard the whole story, everything you've done for your mother-in-law since your husband died, including how you left your father and mother and the land you were born in to come to a people about whom you knew nothing beforehand.

Berean Standard Bible

Boaz replied, “I have been made fully aware of all you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, how you left your father and mother and the land of your birth, and how you came to a people you did not know before.

American Standard Version

And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been showed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother-in-law since the death of thy husband; and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people that thou knewest not heretofore.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 2:11 marks a pivotal moment where Boaz, a prominent kinsman of Naomi, directly addresses Ruth, expressing his profound awareness and commendation of her extraordinary character. His words reveal that Ruth's self-sacrificial devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and her courageous decision to abandon the security of her homeland and family for an unknown future among a foreign people, had not only been observed but widely reported and highly esteemed within the community of Bethlehem. This verse highlights the deep impression Ruth's faithfulness had made, setting the stage for Boaz's subsequent acts of kindness and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ruth 2:11 occurs at a crucial juncture in the narrative, immediately following Ruth's arrival in Bethlehem with Naomi and her decision to glean in the fields for their sustenance. The preceding verses (Ruth 2:1-7) detail Ruth's humble request to glean, her "chance" encounter in Boaz's field, and Boaz's initial inquiry about her identity and background to his foreman. Boaz's commendation in [Ruth 2:11](/ruth/2-11 "Ruth 2:11 - Boaz Commends Ruth") is a direct response to his foreman's positive report and his own observation of Ruth's diligence. This verse transitions the narrative from Ruth's quiet, diligent labor to Boaz's active recognition and favor, initiating the direct interaction between the two protagonists that will drive the rest of the book. It sets the stage for Boaz's protective instructions and generous provisions in [Ruth 2:8-10](/ruth/2-8 "Ruth 2:8-10 - Boaz's Initial Kindness to Ruth") and his subsequent blessing in [Ruth 2:12](/ruth/2-12 "Ruth 2:12 - Boaz's Blessing upon Ruth").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Bethlehem during the time of the Judges, a period marked by moral decline and instability in Israel, yet also by instances of faithfulness. The practice of gleaning, as seen in [Leviticus 19:9-10](/leviticus/19-9 "Leviticus 19:9-10 - Laws of Gleaning") and [Deuteronomy 24:19-22](/deuteronomy/24-19 "Deuteronomy 24:19-22 - Laws Concerning Gleaning"), was a divinely mandated provision for the poor, the sojourner, and the widow. Ruth, as a Moabite widow, was particularly vulnerable and dependent on such provisions. Her decision to leave her "father and mother, and the land of thy nativity" (Moab) was an immense cultural and personal sacrifice. In ancient Near Eastern societies, one's identity, security, and future were inextricably linked to their family and ancestral land. To abandon these was to enter a state of extreme vulnerability, relying entirely on the hospitality and charity of strangers. Ruth's choice, therefore, demonstrated extraordinary loyalty to Naomi and a profound commitment to the God of Israel, whom Naomi served, echoing the faith of [Abraham who left his homeland at God's command](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1 - God's Call to Abraham").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several key themes woven throughout the Book of Ruth. Firstly, **Covenant Loyalty (Hesed)**: Boaz's recognition of Ruth's actions highlights her exceptional loyalty to Naomi, a commitment that goes beyond mere duty and embodies the deep, steadfast love known as *hesed*. This loyalty is particularly striking given Ruth's foreign origin. Secondly, **Sacrifice and Selflessness**: Ruth's willingness to forsake her family, culture, and security for Naomi's sake demonstrates profound self-sacrifice and trust in the unknown. This act of leaving her past behind for a new future with Naomi and her God is a central element of [Ruth's character](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16 - Ruth's Vow to Naomi"). Thirdly, **Reputation and Recognition**: The phrase "it hath fully been shewed me" emphasizes that Ruth's virtuous deeds had gained widespread recognition. Her character, marked by kindness and diligence, served as a powerful testimony, demonstrating that genuine righteousness does not go unnoticed, even in a foreign land. Finally, **Divine Providence**: While Boaz attributes his knowledge to human report, the overarching narrative of Ruth reveals God's sovereign hand orchestrating events. Boaz's awareness of Ruth's character is a crucial step in God's plan to provide for Naomi and Ruth, ultimately leading to the lineage of David and the Messiah, as foreshadowed in [Ruth 4:18-22](/ruth/4-18 "Ruth 4:18-22 - The Genealogy of David").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shewed (Hebrew, נָגַד, _nagad'_):** The KJV translates "it hath fully been shewed me" from the Niphal stem of *nagad*, which means "to be declared," "to be told," or "to be reported." The Niphal stem here implies a passive yet intensive sense, suggesting that the information about Ruth's actions was not merely heard in passing but had been thoroughly and widely reported, making her reputation well-established and undeniable. It conveys the idea that her deeds were made known publicly and comprehensively, underscoring the strong positive impression she had made on the community.
* **Left (Hebrew, עָזַב, _'azav'_):** This verb means "to leave," "to forsake," or "to abandon." Its use here emphasizes the profound and deliberate nature of Ruth's decision. She didn't merely "depart" but actively "left" behind everything familiar and secure: her immediate family ("father and mother"), her extended kin, and her cultural homeland ("the land of thy nativity"). This act of 'azav' signifies a complete severance from her past life for the sake of Naomi and, implicitly, for the God of Israel. It highlights the immense cost of her loyalty and the depth of her commitment.
* **Nativity (Hebrew, מוֹלֶדֶת, _moledet'_):** This noun refers to one's "birthplace," "homeland," or "kin." Specifically, it denotes the place and people of one's origin. By mentioning "the land of thy nativity" (Moab), Boaz underscores the foreignness of Ruth and the magnitude of her sacrifice. Leaving one's *moledet* was an act of profound vulnerability and trust in ancient society, as it meant abandoning the social, economic, and familial safety nets. Ruth's departure from her *moledet* to come to an unknown people in Judah signifies a radical shift in allegiance and a profound act of faith.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Boaz answered and said unto her":** This phrase marks the first direct verbal interaction between Boaz and Ruth. Up until this point, Boaz had inquired about her and given instructions regarding her, but this is his personal address. It signifies his direct engagement with her, moving beyond mere observation or secondhand reports to a personal acknowledgment of her.
* **"It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband":** Boaz immediately establishes that he is fully aware of Ruth's exceptional character and actions. The "fully been shewed me" (as analyzed above) implies widespread knowledge and confirmation of her deeds. He specifically highlights her devotion to Naomi, emphasizing the period "since the death of thine husband," which underscores the challenging circumstances under which Ruth's loyalty was tested and proven. This part of the verse commends her *hesed* within the family unit.
* **"and [how] thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity":** This clause details the immense personal sacrifice Ruth made. Boaz recognizes that her loyalty extended beyond merely caring for Naomi; it involved a radical severance from her entire past. Leaving one's parents and homeland was an act of profound vulnerability in the ancient world, signifying a complete break from all that was familiar and secure. This highlights the depth of her commitment and the cost of her devotion.
* **"and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore":** This final clause emphasizes Ruth's courageous step into the unknown. She came to a foreign land and a foreign people, without pre-existing connections or assurances. This act speaks to her trust, her willingness to embrace a new identity, and implicitly, her embrace of the God of Israel. It underscores her complete reliance on divine providence and human kindness in a land where she was a stranger.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Recognition** is central, as Boaz's words serve as the first explicit acknowledgment of Ruth's exceptional character from a prominent figure in Bethlehem. This public recognition validates Ruth's silent acts of *hesed* and sets the stage for her acceptance into the community. **Contrast** is powerfully used, juxtaposing the security of Ruth's "father and mother, and the land of thy nativity" with the vulnerability of coming "unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore." This contrast highlights the immense sacrifice Ruth made and magnifies the depth of her loyalty and faith. Furthermore, the verse contains an element of **Foreshadowing**, as Boaz's detailed knowledge and commendation of Ruth's character indicate his growing interest and sets the stage for his role as her kinsman-redeemer, hinting at the divine plan unfolding through their interaction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 2:11 is a profound theological statement on the nature of true devotion and its recognition by God and humanity. Ruth's actions—her unwavering loyalty to Naomi and her radical decision to abandon her pagan homeland for an unknown future among God's people—embody the purest form of *hesed*, or covenant love and faithfulness. This self-sacrificial love, extended to a vulnerable family member and expressed through a courageous leap of faith, stands in stark contrast to the often-selfish and faithless behavior depicted in the contemporary Book of Judges. Boaz's commendation signifies that such genuine acts of righteousness, even when performed by an outsider, are seen and celebrated, reflecting God's own character of seeing and rewarding faithfulness. It teaches that true faith often requires costly sacrifice and a willingness to step out of comfort into the unfamiliar, trusting in God's provision and the community He provides.
* [Proverbs 31:29](/proverbs/31-29 "Proverbs 31:29 - Many Daughters Have Done Virtuously") - "Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all." (Reflects the public recognition of exceptional virtue).
* [Matthew 10:37](/matthew/10-37 "Matthew 10:37 - Jesus on Leaving Family") - "He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me." (Highlights the call to prioritize God, even over family ties).
* [Hebrews 11:8](/hebrews/11-8 "Hebrews 11:8 - Abraham's Faith") - "By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went." (Connects Ruth's leaving her homeland to the pattern of faith exemplified by Abraham).

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 2:11 serves as a powerful reminder that acts of genuine kindness, unwavering loyalty, and profound sacrifice, especially when performed without expectation of reward, are deeply seen and valued—not only by God but often by those around us. Ruth's story challenges believers to consider the reputation they are building through their actions, particularly in how they care for family, the vulnerable, and those in need. Her courage to step out of her comfort zone, leaving behind all that was familiar for the sake of devotion and a new path of faith, encourages us to trust that God sees our hidden acts of faithfulness and will provide. Boaz's commendation illustrates how faithfulness is often met with divine favor and human kindness, demonstrating that our character can open doors and create opportunities we never anticipated. It calls us to live lives of integrity and selfless love, knowing that our deeds are a testimony that can impact others and advance God's purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does Ruth's willingness to leave her "father and mother, and the land of thy nativity" teach us about the nature of true commitment and sacrifice?**
* **How might our "reputation" for kindness and loyalty, like Ruth's, serve as a powerful testimony in our communities today?**
* **In what areas of your life might God be calling you to step out of your comfort zone and trust Him in an unfamiliar situation, much like Ruth did?**
* **How does Boaz's recognition of Ruth's actions encourage you regarding God's awareness of your own unseen acts of faithfulness?**

### FAQ
**Why was it such a significant sacrifice for Ruth to leave her homeland and family?**

Answer: In the ancient Near East, one's identity, security, and future were fundamentally tied to their family (father's house) and ancestral land. Leaving these meant severing all social, economic, and protective ties, becoming an outsider with no inherent rights or support system. Ruth, as a Moabite widow, was already doubly vulnerable. Her decision to leave her "father and mother, and the land of thy nativity" (Moab) for Judah meant abandoning her entire past and stepping into a foreign culture with no guarantee of acceptance or provision. This act demonstrated extraordinary loyalty to Naomi and profound trust in the God of Israel, whom she was choosing to follow, making her sacrifice truly immense and noteworthy. It echoes the call to [Abraham to leave his country, kindred, and father's house](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1 - God's Call to Abraham") to go to a land God would show him.

**How did Boaz know so much about Ruth's actions?**

Answer: Boaz explicitly states, "It hath fully been shewed me." This indicates that Ruth's actions, particularly her devoted care for Naomi and her courageous decision to come to Judah, had become widely known and reported within the community of Bethlehem. Before this verse, Boaz had already inquired about Ruth from his foreman ([Ruth 2:6](/ruth/2-6 "Ruth 2:6 - Boaz Inquires About Ruth")), who likely relayed the general sentiment and specific details of her arrival and character. Ruth's diligent gleaning and her humble demeanor would have also been observable. Her exceptional *hesed* (covenant loyalty) was so remarkable that it became a public testimony, ensuring that her virtuous deeds did not go unnoticed. This widespread knowledge underscores the impact of genuine character and selfless acts.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 2:11, with Boaz's commendation of Ruth's self-sacrificial loyalty, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate act of *hesed* demonstrated in Jesus Christ. Ruth "left her father and her mother, and the land of her nativity" to come to a people she did not know, embracing vulnerability and an unknown future out of love and faithfulness. This mirrors Christ, who, though "in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humiliation")). He left the glory of His heavenly "nativity" and the perfect communion with His Father to "come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore"—humanity alienated by sin. His incarnation was the ultimate act of leaving the familiar and secure to enter the unknown and hostile world for our sake. Ruth's embrace of a new people and a new God, through faith, prefigures the new covenant community, the Church, where Gentiles are welcomed into God's family through Christ's sacrifice, becoming "fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God" ([Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19 - Gentiles as Fellow Citizens")). Just as Boaz saw and commended Ruth's costly devotion, God the Father saw and honored the perfect obedience and sacrifice of His Son, leading to His exaltation and the redemption of all who believe ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.