Ruth 2:19

KJV

And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man's name with whom I wrought to day [is] Boaz.

KJV (with Strong's)

And her mother in law {H2545} said {H559} unto her, Where hast thou gleaned {H3950} to day {H3117}? and where {H375} wroughtest {H6213} thou? blessed {H1288} be he that did take knowledge {H5234} of thee. And she shewed {H5046} her mother in law {H2545} with whom she had wrought {H6213}, and said {H559}, The man's {H376} name {H8034} with whom I wrought {H6213} to day {H3117} is Boaz {H1162}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Her mother-in-law asked her, "Where did you glean today? Where were you working? Blessed be the one who took such good care of you!" She told her mother-in-law with whom she had been working; she said, "The name of the man with whom I was working today is Bo'az."

Berean Standard Bible

Then her mother-in-law asked her, “Where did you glean today, and where did you work? Blessed be the man who noticed you.” So she told her mother-in-law where she had worked. “The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz,” she said.

American Standard Version

And her mother-in-law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to-day? and where hast thou wrought? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she showed her mother-in-law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man’s name with whom I wrought to-day is Boaz.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 2:19 captures the pivotal evening conversation between Ruth and Naomi following Ruth's first day of gleaning in the fields of Bethlehem. Naomi's urgent questions about Ruth's benefactor reveal her deep concern for provision and protection, while Ruth's simple declaration, "The man's name with whom I wrought to day [is] Boaz," ignites a spark of hope and divine providence, setting the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for these two vulnerable women.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes Ruth's initial, divinely guided foray into the fields to glean. It immediately follows Boaz's remarkable kindness and generosity toward Ruth, far exceeding the requirements of the gleaning law, as detailed in [Ruth 2:8-16](/ruth/2-8 "Ruth 2:8-16 - Boaz's Kindness to Ruth"). Ruth has returned home laden with an ephah of barley, an unusually large amount for a single day's gleaning, which naturally prompts Naomi's inquisitive and hopeful interrogation. The conversation here serves as a crucial bridge, shifting the narrative from Ruth's diligent labor and Boaz's benevolence to Naomi's strategic insight and the dawning realization of a potential kinsman-redeemer. The revelation of Boaz's name directly sets up Naomi's excited pronouncement and blessing in [Ruth 2:20](/ruth/2-20 "Ruth 2:20 - Naomi's Blessing on Boaz and Realization of Kinsman-Redeemer").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of gleaning was a divinely ordained provision for the poor, the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow in ancient Israel, as commanded 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 - Provision for the Poor"). It was a form of social welfare, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society had a means of sustenance. For Ruth, a Moabitess and a widow, gleaning was her only immediate recourse for survival in a foreign land. Naomi's questions reflect the precariousness of their situation; a widow without male protection was highly vulnerable. Her concern about "where wroughtest thou?" goes beyond mere curiosity, hinting at the reputation and character of the landowner, as a kind and just owner would ensure the safety and fair treatment of gleaners. The mention of Boaz's name carries significant weight, as he is not only a wealthy landowner but also a relative of Naomi's late husband, opening the door to the concept of a kinsman-redeemer (go'el).
* **Key Themes:** Ruth 2:19 powerfully highlights several overarching themes within the book of Ruth. **Divine Providence** is central, as Ruth "happened" to come to Boaz's field ([Ruth 2:3](/ruth/2-3 "Ruth 2:3 - Ruth's Providential Arrival at Boaz's Field")), yet Naomi's blessing on the one who "did take knowledge of thee" underscores the unseen hand of God guiding seemingly coincidental events. **Loyalty and Diligence** are exemplified by Ruth's unwavering commitment to Naomi and her strenuous efforts in the field, showcasing her virtuous character. **Naomi's Hope and Strategic Insight** emerge as she begins to perceive the potential for redemption and security through Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer, a concept that will be fully developed in [Ruth chapter 4](/ruth/4 "Ruth Chapter 4 - The Redemption of Ruth"). Finally, the verse subtly introduces **Boaz's Righteous Character**, as Naomi's immediate positive reaction to his name suggests his established reputation for integrity and kindness within the community of Bethlehem.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wroughtest (Hebrew, _‘asah_):** This verb means "to do, make, perform, or work." In this context, it emphasizes Ruth's active, diligent, and productive labor. Naomi's question, "where wroughtest thou?", seeks to understand the nature and location of Ruth's strenuous work, implying a concern for her well-being and the conditions under which she labored. It underscores Ruth's commitment to providing for herself and Naomi through honest, hard work.
* **Take knowledge of thee (Hebrew, _nakar_):** This verb carries a range of meanings, including "to recognize, acknowledge, discern, or show regard/favor." Naomi's blessing, "blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee," expresses gratitude that someone not only recognized Ruth's presence but also showed her special favor, consideration, and kindness. This goes beyond mere acquaintance; it implies an active demonstration of care and benevolence, which is precisely what Boaz had shown Ruth throughout the day. Naomi's use of this phrase indicates her immediate understanding that Ruth was treated exceptionally well, prompting her to seek the identity of this benevolent individual.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou?":** Naomi's immediate and double-barreled question upon Ruth's return reveals her deep concern and curiosity. The sight of the abundant barley Ruth brought back (an ephah, approximately 22 liters, a significant amount for a single day) would have been astonishing. Naomi wants to know not just the location ("where hast thou gleaned") but also the specific person or conditions that allowed for such a bountiful harvest ("where wroughtest thou?"). This implies a search for a patron or a particularly generous field owner, indicating Naomi's practical and hopeful outlook for their future provision.
* **"blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee.":** Before Ruth even names him, Naomi pronounces a blessing upon the anonymous benefactor. This spontaneous blessing highlights Naomi's immediate recognition that Ruth's success was due to extraordinary kindness and favor, not just hard work. It reflects her deep gratitude and her understanding that such benevolence was a sign of divine favor working through a human agent. This blessing serves as an anticipatory affirmation of Boaz's character and actions.
* **"And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man's name with whom I wrought to day [is] Boaz.":** Ruth's direct and simple answer provides the crucial piece of information. The phrase "shewed her mother in law" suggests a recounting of the day's events, likely including Boaz's specific instructions and provisions. The revelation of Boaz's name is the dramatic turning point of the chapter, as it immediately connects Ruth's experience to Naomi's family lineage and the potential for a kinsman-redeemer. This name unlocks Naomi's strategic thinking for their future.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Dialogue** to advance the plot and reveal character. Naomi's questions are not merely inquisitive but loaded with hope and concern, highlighting her role as a protective and strategic figure. Ruth's concise answer, "The man's name... is Boaz," serves as a powerful **Anagnorisis** (recognition or discovery), a moment of revelation that shifts the narrative's trajectory. The use of **Foreshadowing** is also evident; Naomi's blessing upon the unknown benefactor and her immediate positive reaction to Boaz's name subtly hint at his crucial role as the kinsman-redeemer, a role that will become central to the story's resolution. The phrase "blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee" also functions as a form of **Prolepsis**, anticipating the full extent of Boaz's kindness and his ultimate role in their redemption.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 2:19 profoundly illustrates the theme of divine providence working through human kindness and diligence. Naomi's spontaneous blessing upon the one who "took knowledge" of Ruth underscores the belief that God's favor is often mediated through the righteous actions of individuals. This verse sets in motion the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for Naomi and Ruth, demonstrating how seemingly ordinary daily events are woven into the fabric of God's sovereign purposes. It highlights the importance of human responsibility (Ruth's diligence) intersecting with divine orchestration (Boaz's presence and kindness), leading to unexpected blessings and the restoration of hope in a desperate situation.

* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "Proverbs 16:9 - The Lord Directs Our Steps")
* [Psalm 37:23](/psalm/37-23 "Psalm 37:23 - The Steps of a Good Man are Ordered by the Lord")
* [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Genesis 50:20 - God's Redemptive Purpose in Human Evil")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 2:19 serves as a powerful reminder that God is actively involved in the seemingly mundane details of our lives, often working through the kindness of others and our own diligent efforts. It encourages us to cultivate an awareness of God's providential hand, even when circumstances appear coincidental. Like Naomi, we are called to discern and give thanks for the blessings that come our way, recognizing that every good and perfect gift is from above. Furthermore, Ruth's example of unwavering loyalty and hard work, even in a foreign and challenging environment, challenges us to embrace our responsibilities with faithfulness, trusting that our labor, when offered to God, can become a conduit for His purposes. The verse also underscores the value of wise counsel and mentorship, as Naomi's questions guide Ruth toward recognizing the significance of her encounter.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I cultivate a greater awareness of God's providential hand in my daily life, even in seemingly ordinary or coincidental events?**
* **In what areas of my life am I called to demonstrate Ruth's diligence and loyalty, even when the immediate outcome is uncertain?**
* **Who are the "Boazes" in my life—those who have shown me unexpected kindness or favor—and how can I express gratitude for them?**
* **How might God be using my ordinary efforts or the kindness of others to accomplish His extraordinary purposes?**

### FAQ

**Why was Naomi so curious about where Ruth gleaned?**

Answer: Naomi's intense curiosity stemmed from a combination of factors. First, their economic situation was desperate; as two widows, they relied entirely on gleaning for survival. Second, the sheer amount of barley Ruth brought back (an ephah) was extraordinary for a single day's gleaning, suggesting unusual favor or generosity from the landowner. Naomi's questions, "Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou?", were not just about location but about the character of the person who allowed such abundance. She was likely discerning if Ruth had found a benevolent patron, which was crucial for their ongoing safety and provision in a society where vulnerable women faced many challenges. Her questions reveal her deep concern for Ruth's well-being and her strategic hope for their future.

**What is the significance of Naomi's blessing, "blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee," before knowing it was Boaz?**

Answer: Naomi's spontaneous blessing is highly significant. It demonstrates her immediate recognition that Ruth's success was not merely due to hard work but to exceptional kindness and favor shown by an anonymous individual. This blessing highlights Naomi's faith and her understanding that God's provision often comes through human agents. It also serves as an anticipatory affirmation of Boaz's character, indicating that his reputation for benevolence was well-known. Her blessing underscores the theme of divine providence, showing that God was at work even before the full identity of the benefactor was revealed, setting the stage for the unfolding of His redemptive plan for her family.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 2:19, while narrating a seemingly simple domestic scene, deeply foreshadows the greater Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Naomi's desperate hope for a redeemer, sparked by the mention of Boaz's name, points to humanity's ultimate need for a Savior. Just as Boaz "took knowledge" of Ruth, a vulnerable outsider, and showed her extraordinary favor, so too does Christ, our divine Kinsman, "take knowledge" of us in our spiritual poverty and alienation, extending grace and mercy far beyond what we deserve ([Ephesians 2:4-5](/ephesians/2-4 "Ephesians 2:4-5 - God's Rich Mercy")). Boaz's provision of abundant grain for Ruth, ensuring her sustenance, mirrors Christ as the true [Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"), who provides spiritual nourishment and eternal life. Furthermore, Boaz's willingness to go beyond the letter of the law to redeem Ruth and Naomi anticipates Christ's sacrificial love, who, though rich, became poor for our sakes ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Incarnation for Our Sake")), taking on human flesh to become our brother and redeem us from the curse of sin ([Hebrews 2:14-17](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-17 - Christ's Incarnation and Kinship")). The divine providence evident in Ruth "happening" upon Boaz's field ultimately points to God's sovereign plan of salvation, meticulously orchestrated to bring about the redemption of His people through His Son, Jesus Christ, the ultimate and perfect Redeemer.

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.