Ruth 2:3

And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field [belonging] unto Boaz, who [was] of the kindred of Elimelech.

And she went {H3212}, and came {H935}, and gleaned {H3950} in the field {H7704} after {H310} the reapers {H7114}: and her hap {H4745} was to light {H7136} on a part {H2513} of the field {H7704} belonging unto Boaz {H1162}, who was of the kindred {H4940} of Elimelech {H458}.

So she set out, arrived at the field and gleaned behind the reapers. She happened to be in the part of the field that belonged to Bo'az from Elimelekh's clan,

So Ruth departed and went out into the field and gleaned after the harvesters. And she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelech.

And she went, and came and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on the portion of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech.

Commentary

Ruth 2:3 describes a pivotal moment in the book of Ruth, highlighting Ruth's diligence and the unfolding of divine providence in her life. This verse sets the stage for her encounter with Boaz, a key figure in the narrative.

Context

Following the tragic loss of her husband and sons in Moab, Naomi returned to Bethlehem with her devoted daughter-in-law, Ruth (Ruth 1:19). As a widowed Moabite woman, Ruth had no inheritance or means of support. The Israelite law provided for the poor and foreigners through "gleaning," allowing them to gather leftover grain after the reapers had passed through the fields (Leviticus 19:9-10, Deuteronomy 24:19). Ruth, with humility and a strong work ethic, took the initiative to go to the fields to provide for herself and Naomi.

Key Themes

  • Divine Providence: The phrase "her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz" appears to describe a chance occurrence. However, the entire narrative of Ruth underscores God's guiding hand, orchestrating events to bring about His purposes. What seemed like coincidence was, in fact, God's meticulous plan unfolding (Proverbs 16:9). This moment of "luck" was divine intervention leading Ruth to her future kinsman-redeemer.
  • Diligence and Initiative: Ruth did not wait to be provided for; she actively sought a way to sustain herself and Naomi. Her willingness to undertake the humble and arduous task of gleaning demonstrates remarkable diligence and responsibility, qualities that Boaz later commends.
  • Foreshadowing of Redemption: The identification of Boaz as "of the kindred of Elimelech" is crucial. While Ruth was unaware of this connection at the time, this detail immediately signals to the reader the potential for Boaz to act as a "kinsman-redeemer" (Hebrew: goel), a relative responsible for protecting the family line and property. This connection sets the stage for the dramatic and redemptive conclusion of the book.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "hap" comes from an Old English root meaning "chance" or "fortune." While it suggests a random event, the context of the book of Ruth consistently points to God's sovereign control over circumstances. The Hebrew word is miqreh (ΧžΦ΄Χ§Φ°Χ¨ΦΆΧ”), which can indeed mean "chance" or "accident," but in biblical narrative, even seemingly random events are often presented as part of God's overarching plan. Ruth's "hap" was divinely directed.

Practical Application

Ruth 2:3 offers several practical lessons for believers today:

  • Trust in God's Leading: Even in ordinary tasks or difficult circumstances, God can guide our steps in unexpected ways. What appears to be coincidence in our lives may well be God's hand at work, directing us toward His blessings and purposes.
  • Value of Diligence: Ruth's proactive and hardworking nature was instrumental in her finding favor. God often blesses those who diligently apply themselves, even in humble beginnings.
  • God Works Behind the Scenes: This verse beautifully illustrates how God works subtly and powerfully behind the scenes, connecting people and orchestrating events for His glory and the good of His people. Our responsibility is to be faithful and diligent in our present circumstances, trusting Him with the outcome.
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Cross-References

  • Luke 10:31

    And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

  • Matthew 10:29

    Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:12

    Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

  • 2 Kings 8:5

    And it came to pass, as he was telling the king how he had restored a dead body to life, that, behold, the woman, whose son he had restored to life, cried to the king for her house and for her land. And Gehazi said, My lord, O king, this [is] the woman, and this [is] her son, whom Elisha restored to life.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:11

    And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:12

    That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and [that] ye may have lack of nothing.

  • Esther 6:1

    ΒΆ On that night could not the king sleep, and he commanded to bring the book of records of the chronicles; and they were read before the king.
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