Ruth 2:23

KJV

So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and dwelt with her mother in law.

KJV (with Strong's)

So she kept fast {H1692} by the maidens {H5291} of Boaz {H1162} to glean {H3950} unto the end {H3615} of barley {H8184} harvest {H7105} and of wheat {H2406} harvest {H7105}; and dwelt {H3427} with her mother in law {H2545}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So she stayed close to Bo'az's girls to glean, until the end of the barley and wheat harvests; and she lived with her mother-in-law.

Berean Standard Bible

So Ruth stayed close to the servant girls of Boaz to glean grain until the barley and wheat harvests were finished. And she lived with her mother-in-law.

American Standard Version

So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz, to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and she dwelt with her mother-in-law.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 2:23 marks the culmination of Ruth's diligent gleaning in the fields of Boaz, showcasing her unwavering commitment to Naomi and her steadfast adherence to the protective instructions given by Boaz. This verse highlights Ruth's perseverance through the entirety of the harvest season, from the barley harvest through the wheat harvest, and underscores her continued loyalty to her mother-in-law, solidifying her place within the household and community of Bethlehem.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes the second chapter of Ruth, which primarily details Ruth's encounter with Boaz in his fields. Chapter 2 opens with Ruth's initiative to glean for provision, leading her providentially to Boaz's field. The narrative then meticulously describes Boaz's exceptional kindness and protection extended to Ruth, including instructions to stay with his young women and enjoy special provisions. Ruth's faithful adherence to these instructions throughout the entire harvest season, as stated in [Ruth 2:23](/ruth/2-23 "Ruth 2:23 - Ruth's Continued Diligence"), confirms her obedience and diligence, setting the stage for Naomi's strategic counsel in [Ruth 3](/ruth/3 "Ruth 3 - Naomi's Plan and Ruth's Boldness") concerning Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer. The verse acts as a bridge, demonstrating Ruth's character and establishing the secure environment that will allow the next phase of the narrative to unfold.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of gleaning was a divinely mandated provision for the poor, the sojourner, and the orphan in ancient Israel, as outlined in the Mosaic Law (e.g., [Leviticus 19:9-10](/leviticus/19-9 "Leviticus 19:9-10 - Laws for Gleaning") and [Deuteronomy 24:19-22](/deuteronomy/24-19 "Deuteronomy 24:19-22 - Gleaning and Justice for the Poor")). The harvest season, stretching from the barley harvest (typically April) to the wheat harvest (typically May-June), was a period of intense labor and critical importance for survival. For a foreign woman like Ruth, gleaning was her only means of provision, and doing so safely required the protection of a landowner. Boaz's instructions for her to "keep fast by" his maidens and his provision of water and food were acts of extraordinary kindness and protection, crucial for a vulnerable woman in that society. Her continued dwelling with Naomi also reflects the strong familial bonds and the communal responsibility within Israelite society, especially towards widowed women.
* **Key Themes:** [Ruth 2:23](/ruth/2-23 "Ruth 2:23 - Ruth's Steadfastness") powerfully reinforces several key themes woven throughout the book of Ruth. **Diligence and Perseverance** are evident in Ruth's sustained effort from the beginning of the barley harvest until the end of the wheat harvest, showcasing her commitment to providing for herself and Naomi. Her actions also highlight **Obedience and Faithfulness**, as she meticulously followed Naomi's initial counsel to glean and Boaz's specific instructions to remain within his fields, ensuring her safety and continued provision. Furthermore, the verse subtly points to **Divine Providence and Protection**, as Ruth's diligent work in Boaz's fields, a place of unexpected favor, illustrates God's unseen hand guiding her steps and providing for her through human instruments. Finally, Ruth's continued dwelling with Naomi underscores her unwavering **Loyalty to Family** and her deep commitment to her mother-in-law, a foundational theme established in [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16-17 - Ruth's Vow to Naomi").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kept fast by (Hebrew, _dabaq'_):** The Hebrew verb דָּבַק (_dabaq_) means "to cling," "to cleave," "to adhere closely," or "to stick to." This word is significant for its rich theological and relational connotations. It is famously used in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - A Man Shall Cleave to His Wife") to describe the intimate bond between a husband and wife, signifying a deep, inseparable attachment. It is also used to describe Israel's faithful adherence to the Lord (e.g., [Deuteronomy 10:20](/deuteronomy/10-20 "Deuteronomy 10:20 - Cleaving to the Lord")). In Ruth 2:23, its application to Ruth's relationship with Boaz's maidens signifies more than just physical proximity; it implies a steadfast commitment to Boaz's protection and instructions, a deep-seated loyalty and adherence to the arrangement that provided her safety and sustenance. This word choice elevates Ruth's action from mere compliance to a demonstration of her character—one of unwavering faithfulness and devotion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz":** This clause emphasizes Ruth's obedience and steadfastness. Following Boaz's explicit instructions (Ruth 2:8-9), Ruth remained exclusively within his fields, working alongside his female servants. The use of "kept fast by" (dabaq) suggests a strong, continuous attachment, indicating her unwavering commitment to the protective environment Boaz provided. This was crucial for her safety and continued provision as a vulnerable foreign woman.
* **"to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest":** This phrase highlights Ruth's remarkable diligence and perseverance. The harvest season in Israel was extensive, beginning with barley (typically April) and concluding with wheat (typically May-June). Ruth's commitment to gleaning throughout this entire period demonstrates her tireless work ethic and dedication to providing for herself and Naomi, underscoring her reliability and strong character. It also signifies the full extent of Boaz's sustained provision and protection over her.
* **"and dwelt with her mother in law":** This final clause reaffirms Ruth's profound loyalty and devotion to Naomi. Despite her newfound favor and security in Boaz's fields, Ruth did not abandon Naomi. Her continued dwelling with her mother-in-law underscores the unbreakable bond between them and Ruth's commitment to her vow in [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16-17 - Ruth's Vow of Loyalty"). This detail is crucial, as it maintains the narrative focus on their shared journey and sets the stage for Naomi's continued role in Ruth's future.

#### Literary Devices
Ruth 2:23 employs several literary devices to enrich its meaning. **Repetition** of Ruth's diligence and loyalty, a theme present throughout the chapter, is reinforced by her sustained effort through both harvests and her continued dwelling with Naomi. The extended duration of "unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest" serves as **Hyperbole** or at least **Emphasis**, stressing the completeness and thoroughness of Ruth's commitment. The entire scene of Ruth's gleaning and Boaz's provision can be seen as **Symbolism** for God's providential care working through human kindness; the harvest itself symbolizes divine blessing and provision. Furthermore, the verse functions as a subtle form of **Foreshadowing**, as Ruth's steadfastness and her close adherence to Boaz's household, even through his maidens, hints at her eventual full integration into his family and the community, leading to her marriage with Boaz and the continuation of Naomi's lineage.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 2:23 beautifully encapsulates the interplay of human faithfulness and divine providence. Ruth's steadfast diligence and unwavering loyalty are met with God's abundant provision, often mediated through the kindness of others like Boaz. Her commitment to work and her adherence to wise counsel demonstrate that while God provides, He often calls for human effort and obedience. This verse highlights the biblical principle that faithfulness in small things can lead to greater blessings, and that God's care extends even to the most vulnerable, integrating them into His redemptive plan. It underscores the importance of community, kindness, and the fulfillment of covenant obligations (like gleaning laws) as expressions of God's character.

* [Leviticus 19:9-10](/leviticus/19-9 "Laws for the Poor and Sojourner")
* [Deuteronomy 10:20](/deuteronomy/10-20 "Cleaving to the Lord")
* [Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23 "Work Heartily for the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 2:23 serves as a powerful testament to the virtues of diligence, loyalty, and trust in divine provision. Ruth's consistent effort, from the early barley harvest through the late wheat harvest, models a profound work ethic that honors God and provides for others. Her unwavering commitment to Naomi, even as her own circumstances improved, reminds us of the enduring value of familial bonds and selfless care. In a world that often prioritizes immediate gratification and self-interest, Ruth's example calls us to persevere in our responsibilities, to remain faithful to our commitments, and to trust that God's hand is at work even in the mundane tasks of daily life. Her story encourages us to embrace opportunities for service and to remain in places of safety and wisdom, recognizing that God often uses human instruments and ordinary circumstances to bring about extraordinary blessings.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where in your life are you called to demonstrate Ruth's kind of sustained diligence and perseverance, even when the work is long or tedious?**
* **How does Ruth's "cleaving" to Boaz's maidens reflect the importance of seeking and adhering to wise counsel and protective environments in your own life?**
* **In what ways does Ruth's continued loyalty to Naomi, despite her improved circumstances, challenge your understanding of commitment and selfless love?**
* **How can you cultivate a deeper trust in God's provision, even as you faithfully carry out your daily responsibilities, much like Ruth in the fields?**

### FAQ
**Why is the duration of Ruth's gleaning, "unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest," specifically mentioned?**

Answer: The specific mention of the entire harvest season, from barley to wheat, is crucial for several reasons. First, it emphasizes Ruth's extraordinary diligence and perseverance. She didn't just glean for a few days; she committed herself to hard labor for the entire duration of the harvest, which could span several weeks (April to June). This highlights her strong work ethic and her unwavering dedication to providing for herself and Naomi. Second, it underscores the completeness of Boaz's protection and provision. By staying "fast by" his maidens for the entire period, Ruth was continuously under his care, demonstrating his sustained kindness and the security she found in his fields. Finally, it sets the stage for the next phase of the narrative, as the completion of the harvest signals a natural transition point for Naomi to act on her plan to secure Ruth's future through Boaz, the kinsman-redeemer (see [Ruth 3](/ruth/3 "Naomi's Plan")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 2:23, while describing Ruth's diligent labor and steadfast loyalty, points forward to the ultimate diligence and faithfulness of Christ. Ruth's "cleaving" to Boaz's maidens and remaining under his protection foreshadows the believer's spiritual "cleaving" to Christ and abiding in His protective care. Just as Ruth diligently gleaned to provide for herself and Naomi, Christ diligently fulfilled the Father's will, ultimately providing eternal sustenance for His people through His sacrifice on the cross (see [John 6:35](/john/6-35 "Jesus, the Bread of Life")). Ruth's perseverance through the entire harvest season, enduring labor for the sake of provision, reflects Christ's unwavering commitment to His mission, even unto death (see [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Obedience to Death")). Furthermore, the abundant provision Ruth received in Boaz's field, far beyond what a gleaner might expect, serves as a beautiful type of the spiritual blessings and abundant life found in Christ, who is our true Kinsman-Redeemer (see [Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). Ruth's story, culminating in her integration into Boaz's household, ultimately points to the Church, the bride of Christ, being brought into the family of God through the ultimate act of redemption by our Lord (see [Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25 "Christ Loves the Church")).

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

Proverbs 6:6

¶ Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:

Proverbs 6:8

Provideth her meat in the summer, [and] gathereth her food in the harvest.

Proverbs 13:1

¶ A wise son [heareth] his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.

Ephesians 6:1

¶ Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Ephesians 6:3

That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

Deuteronomy 16:9

Seven weeks shalt thou number unto thee: begin to number the seven weeks from [such time as] thou beginnest [to put] the sickle to the corn.

Proverbs 13:20

¶ He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.