Ruth 2:3

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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,

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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

### SUMMARY
Ruth 2:3 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, detailing Ruth's diligent initiative to glean in the fields for sustenance and, seemingly by chance, her arrival at a portion of the field belonging to Boaz, a prominent and wealthy relative of her late father-in-law, Elimelech. This verse masterfully intertwines Ruth's proactive effort with divine providence, setting the stage for her encounter with her future kinsman-redeemer and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for her and Naomi.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ruth 2:3 immediately follows Ruth's declaration of commitment to Naomi in [Ruth 1:16-18](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16-18 - Ruth's Vow to Naomi") and their subsequent arrival in Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest ([Ruth 1:22](/ruth/1-22 "Ruth 1:22 - Arrival in Bethlehem")). Having returned to Bethlehem as impoverished widows, Ruth takes the initiative to provide for herself and Naomi, asking permission to glean in the fields ([Ruth 2:2](/ruth/2-2 "Ruth 2:2 - Ruth Seeks Permission to Glean")). This verse describes her immediate action, presenting her "hap" or "chance" encounter with Boaz as the direct outcome of her diligent labor, strategically placing her in the very field where God's providence would begin to unfold.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of gleaning was an Israelite law mandated by God to provide for the poor, the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow ([Leviticus 19:9-10](/leviticus/19-9 "Leviticus 19:9-10 - Gleaning Laws") and [Deuteronomy 24:19-22](/deuteronomy/24-19 "Deuteronomy 24:19-22 - Laws for the Poor")). Reapers would harvest the main crop, but any grain dropped or left in the corners of the field was to be left for the needy to collect. This was a physically demanding and often humiliating task, making Ruth's willingness to undertake it a testament to her humility and strong work ethic. Furthermore, the mention of Boaz as "of the kindred of Elimelech" introduces the concept of the *goel* or kinsman-redeemer, a crucial legal and social institution in ancient Israel that allowed a close male relative to redeem family land, pay debts, or marry a childless widow to perpetuate the family line ([Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Levirate Marriage")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates the interplay of **Divine Providence** and **Human Initiative**. Ruth's proactive decision to glean (human initiative) leads her to Boaz's field, which the narrator presents as a "hap" or "chance" occurrence, yet the entire narrative unmistakably reveals God's sovereign hand orchestrating every detail for His purposes. This highlights the theme that God works through ordinary circumstances and faithful obedience. It also introduces the theme of **Redemption**, subtly foreshadowing Boaz's future role as kinsman-redeemer, which will culminate in the restoration of Naomi's family line and the inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite, into the lineage of David and ultimately, Christ. The diligence and humility of Ruth are also prominent, setting her apart and earning her favor.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gleaned (Hebrew, _laqat'_):** The verb לָקַט (laqat) means "to gather, to pick up." In this context, it specifically refers to the practice of collecting leftover grain after the reapers, as prescribed by Mosaic Law. Ruth's act of gleaning signifies her humility, her industriousness, and her reliance on God's provision through the established legal framework for the poor. It was a physically demanding and often socially marginalized activity, underscoring her commitment to Naomi and her own survival.
* **Hap (Hebrew, _miqreh'_):** The Hebrew word מִקְרֶה (miqreh) literally means "chance," "accident," or "fortune." While on the surface it suggests a random event, in the context of biblical narrative, such "chance" occurrences are frequently presented as divinely orchestrated. The narrator's use of this term here creates a powerful **irony**: what appears to be a mere coincidence from a human perspective is, from the divine perspective, a meticulously planned step in God's unfolding redemptive story. This word highlights the subtle, often unseen, hand of God at work in the seemingly mundane events of life.
* **Kindred (Hebrew, _moda'_):** The term מוֹדַע (moda') refers to a relative, an acquaintance, or one known to the family. Here, it specifically identifies Boaz as a relative of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. This detail is crucial for the reader, even if Ruth is initially unaware of its full significance. It immediately establishes Boaz's potential role as a *goel*, or kinsman-redeemer, setting the stage for the book's central theme of redemption and the legal mechanism through which Naomi's family line can be preserved.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers:"** This clause emphasizes Ruth's immediate and determined action. The repetition of "went" and "came" highlights her proactive step into the unknown. Her decision to glean demonstrates her practical wisdom, humility, and strong work ethic, as she seeks to provide for herself and Naomi through lawful means available to the poor. This sets the stage for her encounter, showing that she was not passively waiting but actively engaging with her circumstances.
* **"and her hap was to light on a part of the field [belonging] unto Boaz,"** This is the pivotal phrase of the verse. The KJV's "her hap was to light on" translates the Hebrew "וַיִּקֶּר מִקְרֶהָ" (vayyiqer miqreha), literally "her chance happened." This phrasing, while suggesting randomness, is understood by the biblical narrator and reader as divine orchestration. It signifies that Ruth's seemingly accidental arrival at Boaz's field was, in fact, God's providential leading. This "chance" encounter is the turning point that sets the entire redemptive plot into motion.
* **"who [was] of the kindred of Elimelech."** This final clause provides crucial information to the reader, though Ruth herself is not yet aware of its full significance. By identifying Boaz as a relative of Naomi's late husband, Elimelech, the narrator immediately introduces the possibility of Boaz acting as a kinsman-redeemer (*goel*). This detail is a powerful piece of **foreshadowing**, signaling to the audience the potential for the restoration of Naomi's family line and the dramatic resolution of the story through a key figure who holds the legal and social capacity to redeem.

#### Literary Devices
Ruth 2:3 is rich in literary artistry, primarily employing **Irony** and **Foreshadowing**. The central irony lies in the phrase "her hap was to light on," which suggests a random occurrence. Yet, the entire narrative of Ruth, from its opening to its conclusion, consistently points to God's meticulous and sovereign control over events. What appears as human chance is revealed as divine design, creating a profound theological irony that underscores God's active involvement in the seemingly mundane details of life. This also functions as a form of **Divine Sovereignty** as a narrative device, where the author subtly guides the reader to see God's hand without explicitly stating it. Furthermore, the identification of Boaz as "of the kindred of Elimelech" serves as potent **Foreshadowing**. This detail, delivered early in the narrative, immediately signals to the informed reader the potential for a *goel* (kinsman-redeemer) to emerge, setting up the expectation for the dramatic and redemptive resolution that will unfold in later chapters. The verse also subtly uses **Contrast** between Ruth's humble, arduous labor and the grand, providential outcome that begins to unfold.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 2:3 stands as a profound testament to the interplay of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. While Ruth diligently undertakes the arduous task of gleaning, demonstrating initiative and a strong work ethic, the narrative emphasizes that her arrival at Boaz's field was not merely a result of her effort but a divinely orchestrated "hap." This teaches us that God often works through ordinary circumstances and the faithful actions of His people, guiding their steps in ways they may not immediately perceive. It assures believers that even in seemingly random or difficult situations, God's hand is at work, directing events toward His ultimate purposes and the good of His children. This subtle, yet powerful, demonstration of providence builds trust in a God who is intimately involved in the details of our lives.

* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "Proverbs 16:9 - God Directs Our Steps")
* [Psalm 37:23-24](/psalms/37-23 "Psalm 37:23-24 - The Steps of a Good Man")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - All Things Work Together for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 2:3 offers a powerful model for how believers can navigate life with both diligence and trust. Ruth's proactive decision to glean, even in a humble and demanding role, demonstrates a commendable work ethic and a refusal to succumb to despair. She didn't wait for a miraculous intervention but actively sought to provide for her household within the available means. Yet, the narrative reminds us that her efforts were not in vain, precisely because God's sovereign hand was guiding her steps to the precise field where her future would begin to unfold. This encourages us to be faithful and diligent in our present circumstances, no matter how ordinary or challenging they may seem, trusting that God is working behind the scenes. Our "haps" and "chances" are often His divine appointments, orchestrating events for our good and His glory. We are called to work as if everything depends on us, while trusting as if everything depends on God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to exercise diligence and initiative, even when the outcome is uncertain?**
* **Can you recall a time when a "chance" encounter or seemingly random event in your life turned out to be a clear instance of God's providence? How did that experience shape your faith?**
* **How does the balance between human effort and divine sovereignty in Ruth 2:3 challenge or affirm your understanding of God's work in your life?**

### FAQ

**Does "her hap" in Ruth 2:3 imply that God's plan is subject to chance or luck?**

Answer: No, the phrase "her hap was to light on" (Hebrew: *miqreh*) does not imply that God's plan is subject to chance or luck. While the word *miqreh* can indeed mean "chance" or "accident" in a general sense, in the biblical narrative, it often describes events that appear random from a human perspective but are, in fact, divinely orchestrated. The Book of Ruth, in particular, is a masterful display of divine providence, where seemingly coincidental events are woven together by God's sovereign hand to achieve His purposes. Ruth's arrival at Boaz's field was not a mere stroke of luck, but a precise step in God's meticulous plan to bring about the redemption of Naomi's family line and to include Ruth, a Moabite, in the lineage of the Messiah. This concept is beautifully echoed in [Proverbs 16:33](/proverbs/16-33 "Proverbs 16:33 - The Lot is Cast into the Lap"), which states, "The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD." God uses even what appears to be "chance" to fulfill His will.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 2:3, though seemingly a simple narrative detail, profoundly foreshadows the grander story of Christ's redemptive work. Ruth's "hap" to light upon the field of Boaz, who was "of the kindred of Elimelech," is a beautiful type of God's providential leading of humanity to Christ. Just as Ruth, a destitute foreigner, was led to Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer who would ultimately restore her and Naomi, so too are all believers, spiritual foreigners by nature, led by divine grace to Jesus Christ, our ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer. Boaz, in his wealth, generosity, and willingness to redeem, prefigures Christ, who, though rich, became poor for our sakes ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Poverty for Our Sake")) and willingly paid the ultimate price to redeem us from the curse of the law and the bondage of sin ([Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeemed Us from the Curse")). Ruth's diligent gleaning, though humble, was the path to her provision and future; similarly, our faithful obedience and seeking of God, though imperfect, are the means through which we encounter the abundant grace and life offered by Christ ([Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom")). The inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite, into the lineage of David and eventually Christ ([Matthew 1:5](/matthew/1-5 "Matthew 1:5 - Ruth in Jesus' Genealogy")), initiated by this "chance" encounter, powerfully illustrates God's expansive redemptive plan to bring all nations into His family through faith in the Lamb of God ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - Redeemed from Every Tribe and Tongue")).

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.