Ruth 2:15

Context of Ruth 2:15

Ruth 2:15 takes place in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy and respected kinsman of Naomi's late husband in Bethlehem. Ruth, a Moabite widow, has humbly sought to glean in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi, exercising the ancient Israelite laws of gleaning for the poor and the stranger. Earlier in this chapter, Boaz had already noticed Ruth's diligence and heard of her loyalty to Naomi, extending her unusual kindness by allowing her to glean in his fields, providing water, and inviting her to eat with his reapers (Ruth 2:8-9, Ruth 2:14). This particular verse marks an escalation of Boaz's favor, moving beyond simple permission to glean.

Key Themes and Messages

• Extraordinary Generosity: Boaz's command goes beyond the expected provisions for gleaners. He not only permits Ruth to glean but instructs his workers to allow her access to the more valuable grain. This highlights his exceptional kindness and compassion.
• Protection and Dignity: The instruction "reproach her not" is significant. It ensures Ruth is not shamed, hindered, or harassed while gleaning, which was a common risk for vulnerable gleaners. Boaz is actively protecting her reputation and ensuring her safety and comfort.
• Divine Providence: This act of favor from Boaz is a clear demonstration of God's providential care for Ruth and Naomi. What began as a desperate search for sustenance quickly turns into a divinely orchestrated encounter leading to provision and protection, fulfilling the blessing Boaz pronounced on Ruth in Ruth 2:12.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "glean even among the sheaves" (Hebrew: בֵּין הָעֳמָרִים - bein ha'omarim) is crucial. Typically, gleaners were only allowed to collect stray stalks after the reapers had bundled the grain into sheaves (bundles). By permitting Ruth to glean "among the sheaves," Boaz is allowing her to gather much more substantial amounts of grain directly from where it was bundled, making her labor significantly more fruitful and less arduous. The word "reproach" (Hebrew: כָּלַם - kalam) means to shame, disgrace, or insult. Boaz's command was to ensure no one would cause her any distress or humiliation while she was gathering.

Practical Application

Ruth 2:15 serves as a powerful reminder of how we can extend grace and generosity beyond what is required. Boaz's actions exemplify:

• Proactive Kindness: He didn't wait for Ruth to ask for more; he initiated greater provision and protection. We can look for opportunities to bless others generously.
• Dignity in Giving: His command to "reproach her not" teaches us to offer help in a way that preserves the dignity of the recipient, ensuring they feel valued and respected, not shamed or indebted.
• Recognizing God's Hand: This verse encourages us to see God's providence at work in seemingly ordinary interactions. Just as Boaz was an instrument of God's blessing for Ruth, we too can be channels of divine kindness for those around us.