Ruth 2:13

KJV

Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then she said {H559}, Let me find {H4672} favour {H2580} in thy sight {H5869}, my lord {H113}; for that thou hast comforted {H5162} me, and for that thou hast spoken {H1696} friendly {H3820} unto thine handmaid {H8198}, though I be not like unto one {H259} of thine handmaidens {H8198}.

Complete Jewish Bible

She said, "My lord, I hope I continue pleasing you. You have comforted and encouraged me, even though I'm not one of your servants."

Berean Standard Bible

“My lord,” she said, “may I continue to find favor in your eyes, for you have comforted and spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your servant girls.”

American Standard Version

Then she said, Let me find favor in thy sight, my lord, for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken kindly unto thy handmaid, though I be not as one of thy handmaidens.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 2:13 beautifully encapsulates Ruth's profound humility and deep gratitude in response to Boaz's extraordinary and unexpected kindness. Having received unmerited favor, protection, and comforting words in his fields, Ruth expresses heartfelt appreciation, acknowledging her identity as a foreign outsider and highlighting the immense value she places on Boaz's compassionate actions. Her response underscores the transformative power of genuine benevolence and sets the stage for the unfolding narrative of divine providence, redemption, and inclusion for the marginalized.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of a pivotal dialogue between Ruth and Boaz, immediately following Boaz's remarkable display of generosity and protection. Earlier, in [Ruth 2:8-9](/ruth/2-8-9 "Boaz's Instructions and Protection for Ruth"), Boaz had proactively instructed Ruth to remain in his field, drink from his servants' water, and ensured her safety from harassment. Ruth's initial response in [Ruth 2:10](/ruth/2-10 "Ruth's Humble Question") was one of prostration and a bewildered question as to why she, a foreign Moabite, had found such unmerited favor. Boaz then explained his actions in [Ruth 2:11-12](/ruth/2-11-12 "Boaz's Blessing and Affirmation of Ruth"), affirming her loyalty to Naomi and invoking a divine blessing upon her for seeking refuge under the wings of the God of Israel. Ruth's humble and grateful reply in Ruth 2:13 serves as a direct, appreciative continuation of this exchange, solidifying her acceptance and paving the way for the deepening relationship that will eventually lead to marriage and the continuation of Naomi's family line, demonstrating a reciprocal respect and burgeoning trust.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of gleaning was a divinely instituted provision for the poor, the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, as mandated in [Leviticus 19:9-10](/leviticus/19-9-10 "Laws for Gleaning and the Poor") and [Deuteronomy 24:19-22](/deuteronomy/24-19-22 "Provisions for the Needy and Foreigner"). While gleaners were permitted to gather what was left, Boaz's actions far exceeded these legal requirements. He not only allowed Ruth to glean but provided protection, water, food, and explicitly instructed his reapers to leave extra for her. Ruth, as a Moabite, was an outsider, often viewed with suspicion or even outright hostility due to historical animosity between Israel and Moab, as evidenced by the prohibitions in [Deuteronomy 23:3-6](/deuteronomy/23-3-6 "Exclusion of Ammonites and Moabites from the Assembly"). Her vulnerability as a foreign widow in a new, potentially unwelcoming land makes Boaz's unreserved kindness and protective actions all the more remarkable and culturally significant, highlighting a profound act of compassion that transcended societal norms.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully reinforces several central themes within the [Book of Ruth](/ruth "The Book of Ruth - A Story of Loyalty and Redemption"). Firstly, **Humility and Gratitude** are profoundly evident in Ruth's self-abasement and her immediate, heartfelt expression of thanks for Boaz's unexpected generosity. She does not demand but receives with grace. Secondly, **Divine Providence and Kindness** are highlighted, as Boaz's actions are presented as a tangible manifestation of God's care for Ruth, echoing his own blessing upon her in [Ruth 2:12](/ruth/2-12 "Boaz's Prayer for Ruth's Refuge"). Ruth recognizes that his "comfort" and "friendly" words are a direct source of solace in her difficult circumstances. Thirdly, the theme of **Inclusion and Redemption for the Marginalized** is central. Ruth's explicit statement, "though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens," underscores her foreign status and the profound nature of Boaz's acceptance, foreshadowing the broader message of God's grace extending beyond the boundaries of Israel to embrace all who seek refuge in Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Favour (Hebrew, _chên'_):** From H2580, this word denotes graciousness, kindness, or unmerited acceptance. Ruth's plea, "Let me find favour in thy sight," is not a demand but a humble request for continued goodwill, recognizing that Boaz's previous actions were not obligatory but flowed from his benevolent character. It implies a desire for ongoing acceptance and a positive disposition from him, acknowledging that any kindness shown is a gift, not a right.
* **Spoken (Hebrew, _dâbar'_):** From H1696, this primitive root means "to speak," but carries a broader sense of arranging, declaring, or commanding. In this context, it refers to Boaz's verbal communication. The significance here is not merely that he spoke, but *how* he spoke, which leads to the next key word. It emphasizes the intentionality and weight of his words, which were not idle but purposeful and impactful.
* **Friendly (Hebrew, _lêb'_):** From H3820, this word literally means "heart," but is used figuratively and widely for feelings, will, intellect, and even the center of anything. The phrase "spoken friendly unto thine handmaid" is literally "spoken to the heart of your handmaid." This conveys that Boaz's words were deeply comforting, encouraging, and empathetic, rather than merely polite or formal. His communication resonated with Ruth's inner being, bringing genuine solace and reassurance to her vulnerable and anxious spirit, highlighting the profound impact of compassionate and intentional communication.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord;":** Ruth's immediate response is one of profound humility and deference. Her request for "favour" (חֵן, *chên*) indicates her acute awareness of her low social status as a foreign gleaner and her deep appreciation for the unmerited kindness she has already received. Addressing Boaz as "my lord" reinforces her respect for his superior social position and authority, acknowledging his benevolent power over her circumstances.
* **"for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid,":** Here, Ruth articulates the specific reasons for her gratitude, moving beyond mere material provision. Boaz has not only provided physical aid (allowing her to glean, offering water and food) but has also offered profound emotional and spiritual solace ("comforted me"). The phrase "spoken friendly" (literally, "spoken to the heart," עַל־לֵב, *al-lêb*) emphasizes the deep, empathetic, and reassuring nature of his words, which brought genuine peace, dignity, and affirmation to her. She identifies herself as "thine handmaid," further underscoring her humble status and willingness to serve.
* **"though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens.":** This concluding clause is crucial for understanding Ruth's perspective and the magnitude of Boaz's kindness. Ruth explicitly acknowledges her foreignness (Moabite) and her perceived unworthiness of such exceptional treatment. She highlights the social and cultural chasm between herself, a vulnerable widow from an enemy nation, and even the lowest of Boaz's Israelite servants. This statement magnifies Boaz's grace, demonstrating that his favor transcends conventional social boundaries and expectations, making his compassion truly remarkable.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs powerful **Contrast** to highlight Boaz's extraordinary kindness against Ruth's perceived low status. Ruth's declaration, "though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens," starkly contrasts her foreign, vulnerable, and outsider position with the privileged status of even the lowest Israelite servant. This contrast magnifies Boaz's grace and profoundly emphasizes the theme of radical inclusion for the outsider. Furthermore, the phrase "spoken friendly" (literally, "to the heart") serves as a poignant example of **Metonymy**, where the action (speaking) is described by its profound effect (comforting the heart), underscoring the deep emotional and spiritual impact of Boaz's words. There is also an element of **Irony** in Ruth's humble self-assessment, as her unwavering loyalty to Naomi and her diligent character, which Boaz has already recognized and commended, are far superior to what her social status as a foreign gleaner would suggest.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth's response in this verse is a powerful testament to the transformative power of grace and the profound importance of humble gratitude. Her recognition that Boaz's kindness goes beyond mere obligation, "speaking to her heart" and comforting her, mirrors the divine grace extended to humanity. Just as Ruth, an outsider and a widow, finds unmerited favor and acceptance, so too does God extend His loving-kindness (חֶסֶד, *hesed*) to those who are undeserving, drawing them into His covenant family. This interaction foreshadows the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan to include all nations, not just Israel, into His fold, demonstrating His boundless compassion for the vulnerable and marginalized. It teaches that true favor is not earned but freely given, evoking a response of deep appreciation and trust.

* [Psalm 103:13](/psalms/103-13 "Psalm 103:13 - The Lord's Compassion for His Children")
* [Luke 7:47](/luke/7-47 "Luke 7:47 - Love as a Response to Forgiveness")
* [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth's humble and grateful response to Boaz's kindness offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. In a world often characterized by entitlement, complaint, and a lack of genuine appreciation, Ruth's immediate, specific, and heartfelt thanks stand out as a powerful example. Her words remind us that true gratitude acknowledges not only the gift but also the compassionate heart of the giver, especially when kindness is extended to those who feel overlooked, unworthy, or marginalized. We are called to be both humble recipients and generous dispensers of such grace. Just as Boaz's "friendly" words brought deep comfort to Ruth's heart, our words and actions have the immense power to affirm, encourage, and bring solace to others, particularly those who are vulnerable, struggling, or feeling like outsiders. This verse challenges us to cultivate a spirit of genuine appreciation for every kindness received and to actively seek opportunities to extend compassion that goes beyond mere duty or expectation, recognizing that such acts can bring unexpected hope, foster deep connections, and pave the way for God's greater blessings in the lives of others and ourselves.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Ruth's profound humility in this verse challenge our own tendencies toward entitlement or pride in our interactions?**
* **In what specific ways can we "speak friendly" (to the heart) to those around us, bringing genuine comfort and affirmation rather than just polite conversation?**
* **Reflect on a time when you experienced unmerited favor from another person or from God. How did you respond with gratitude, and how might you have responded more deeply?**
* **How does Boaz's radical kindness to an "outsider" like Ruth inform and inspire our approach to those who are different, marginalized, or new in our own communities, churches, or workplaces?**

### FAQ
**Why does Ruth emphasize that she is "not like unto one of thine handmaidens"?**

Answer: Ruth emphasizes her status as "not like unto one of thine handmaidens" to underscore her foreignness and perceived unworthiness of Boaz's extraordinary kindness. As a Moabite, she was an outsider in Israel, a nation with a history of animosity towards Moab. Her status as a widow further compounded her vulnerability and social precariousness. By highlighting this contrast, she is expressing profound humility and deep gratitude, acknowledging that Boaz's generosity goes far beyond what she, as a non-Israelite and a mere gleaner, could ever expect or demand. It magnifies the extent of his grace and demonstrates her deep appreciation for his acceptance, which transcends the social and ethnic barriers of the time. This statement also serves a crucial narrative purpose in the [Book of Ruth](/ruth "The Book of Ruth - A Story of Loyalty and Redemption"), setting the stage for the broader theological theme of God's redemptive plan including outsiders, a theme powerfully illustrated throughout the book and culminating in the lineage of David and ultimately, Jesus Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 2:13, with its portrayal of unmerited favor extended to an undeserving outsider, powerfully foreshadows the radical grace of Christ. Ruth, a Moabite, represents humanity alienated from God, yet through Boaz's kindness, she finds comfort, acceptance, and a pathway to belonging. This mirrors how Christ, our ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, extends His grace to us, "though we be not like unto one of thine handmaidens" but rather sinners alienated from God, utterly undeserving of His love ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "God Demonstrates His Love for Us")). Just as Boaz "spoke friendly" (literally, "to the heart") to Ruth, bringing her profound solace and affirmation, so Jesus speaks words of life, comfort, and forgiveness that penetrate the deepest parts of our being, healing our brokenness, and offering us eternal peace ([John 6:63](/john/6-63 "The Spirit Gives Life, the Words of Jesus are Spirit and Life")). Ruth's humble gratitude for Boaz's unmerited favor serves as a model for our response to God's boundless love in Christ, who, though we were His enemies, reconciled us to Himself through His sacrificial death ([Colossians 1:21-22](/colossians/1-21-22 "Reconciliation Through Christ's Blood")). Through Christ, the outsider is brought into the family of God, the alienated are adopted as children, and the undeserving receive the ultimate favor, becoming co-heirs with Him in His glorious inheritance ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Heirs with Christ, Sufferers with Him to be Glorified with Him")).

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.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 1:18

And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more [sad].

Genesis 33:8

And he said, What [meanest] thou by all this drove which I met? And he said, [These are] to find grace in the sight of my lord.

Genesis 34:3

And his soul clave unto Dinah the daughter of Jacob, and he loved the damsel, and spake kindly unto the damsel.

Genesis 33:15

And Esau said, Let me now leave with thee [some] of the folk that [are] with me. And he said, What needeth it? let me find grace in the sight of my lord.

Philippians 2:3

[Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Genesis 43:14

And God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may send away your other brother, and Benjamin. If I be bereaved [of my children], I am bereaved.

1 Samuel 25:41

And she arose, and bowed herself on [her] face to the earth, and said, Behold, [let] thine handmaid [be] a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.