Ruth 2:4

KJV

¶ And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, The LORD [be] with you. And they answered him, The LORD bless thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

And, behold, Boaz {H1162} came {H935} from Bethlehem {H1035}, and said {H559} unto the reapers {H7114}, The LORD {H3068} be with you. And they answered {H559} him, The LORD {H3068} bless {H1288} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

when Bo'az arrived from Beit-Lechem. He said to the reapers, "ADONAI be with you"; and they answered him, "ADONAI bless you."

Berean Standard Bible

Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and said to the harvesters, “The LORD be with you.” “The LORD bless you,” they replied.

American Standard Version

And, behold, Boaz came from Beth-lehem, and said unto the reapers, Jehovah be with you. And they answered him, Jehovah bless thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 2:4 marks the pivotal entrance of Boaz, a man of significant standing and deep piety, into the narrative. This verse vividly portrays his arrival at his fields during the crucial barley harvest and his immediate, Spirit-infused exchange of blessings with his reapers. This interaction not only profoundly establishes Boaz's character as a man of faith, integrity, and benevolent leadership but also sets a tone of mutual respect and divine acknowledgment within the workplace, subtly preparing the ground for his providential encounter with Ruth and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed immediately after Ruth's desperate yet faithful decision to glean in the fields to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. [Ruth 2:2-3](/ruth/2-2-3 "Ruth's Initiative and Providential Encounter") describes Ruth's initiative and her "happening" upon the field belonging to Boaz, a kinsman of Naomi's late husband. The arrival of Boaz in this verse is presented with a sense of divine orchestration, transforming what appears to be mere chance into a foundational moment for the unfolding of God's redemptive purposes. It stands in stark contrast to the despair and bitterness expressed by Naomi in [Ruth 1:20-21](/ruth/1-20-21 "Naomi's Bitterness and Return to Bethlehem"), introducing a figure of hope and blessing who will be instrumental in their restoration. The subsequent verses will detail Boaz's extraordinary kindness to Ruth, deeply developing their relationship and setting the stage for the kinsman-redeemer theme.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Bethlehem during the barley harvest, a time of intense labor and critical importance for the sustenance of the community. The practice of gleaning, as observed by Ruth, was a divinely ordained provision for the poor, the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, mandated by Mosaic Law in passages like [Deuteronomy 24:19-22](/deuteronomy/24-19-22 "Laws Regarding Gleaning and the Poor"). Boaz, as a wealthy landowner, would have managed a substantial workforce, and his interaction with them reflects the ideal of a righteous Israelite employer. The greetings exchanged in this verse—"The LORD be with you" and "The LORD bless thee"—were far more than perfunctory pleasantries. They were deeply significant, covenantal expressions of faith common in ancient Israel, reflecting a society where God's active presence and blessing were acknowledged and invoked in daily life and labor. This mutual respect and spiritual harmony between employer and employee, rooted in shared reverence for God, was exemplary and fostered a harmonious and just community.
* **Key Themes:** Ruth 2:4 powerfully highlights several core themes central to the book. **Divine Providence** is paramount, as Boaz's timely arrival at his field precisely when Ruth is gleaning there is presented as more than mere coincidence, underscoring God's unseen hand guiding events for His sovereign purposes, much like the principle articulated in [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "The Lord Directs Our Steps"). The theme of **Godly Character and Piety** is profoundly evident in the reverent greetings exchanged, showcasing Boaz as a man who honored the Lord and whose workers shared this spiritual sensibility. This immediately sets him apart as a righteous and benevolent figure, foreshadowing his crucial role as a kinsman-redeemer. Finally, the verse subtly but significantly introduces the theme of **Redemption and Restoration**, as Boaz's presence and his righteous character are the initial, divinely orchestrated steps in Naomi and Ruth's journey from destitution and despair to security, blessing, and ultimately, the continuation of a vital lineage, echoing the broader narrative of God's faithfulness to His people as seen in [Ruth 4:14-17](/ruth/4-14-17 "The Birth of Obed and Naomi's Restoration").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Boaz (Hebrew, _Bôʻaz'_):** From an unused root of uncertain meaning, this name belongs to the ancestor of David and also to a pillar in front of the temple. In Ruth 2:4, the introduction of Boaz signifies the arrival of a key figure, not just a wealthy landowner, but one whose name carries a sense of strength or swiftness, foreshadowing his decisive and powerful role in the narrative as Ruth's kinsman-redeemer and a foundational figure in the lineage of Israel's greatest king.
* **reapers (Hebrew, _qâtsar'_):** A primitive root meaning "to dock off," "curtail," or specifically "to harvest (grass or grain)." Here, it refers to the workers engaged in the arduous task of harvesting the barley. Their presence and the nature of their work provide the immediate context for Boaz's arrival and his blessing, highlighting the agricultural setting and the communal labor that forms the backdrop for Ruth's gleaning and Boaz's benevolent oversight.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** From the root meaning "to be," referring to the self-Existent or Eternal One; Jehovah, the Jewish national name of God. The use of this covenant name of God in both Boaz's greeting and the reapers' response is highly significant. It indicates that their blessings are not generic well-wishes but profound invocations of the personal, covenant-keeping God of Israel. This demonstrates a deep, living faith that permeates their daily interactions and work, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of blessing and presence, distinguishing their faith from that of the surrounding pagan nations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem,"**: This opening clause introduces Boaz with an immediate sense of importance and divine timing, signaled by the interjection "behold." His arrival "from Bethlehem" grounds the narrative geographically, emphasizing his local prominence as a resident and landowner in the town. The specific timing of his arrival, precisely when Ruth is gleaning in his field, is presented as crucial to the unfolding plot, hinting strongly at divine orchestration rather than mere coincidence.
* **"and said unto the reapers, The LORD [be] with you."**: Boaz's first recorded words in the narrative are a profound blessing directed at his workers. This immediately establishes his character as a man of deep faith, a benevolent employer, and a righteous leader. The use of "The LORD" (YHWH) underscores the spiritual depth of his greeting, indicating his genuine desire for God's active presence, protection, and favor to be upon his laborers as they perform their demanding work. This was a common yet profound blessing in ancient Israel, reflecting a culture where God was acknowledged in every aspect of daily life.
* **"And they answered him, The LORD bless thee."**: The reapers' immediate and reciprocal response reveals a shared spiritual sensibility and mutual respect within Boaz's household. Their blessing upon Boaz ("The LORD bless thee") acknowledges his authority and piety, invoking God's favor, prosperity, and well-being upon him as their master. This mutual exchange paints a vivid picture of a harmonious, God-fearing work environment, where both employer and employees recognize God as the ultimate provider and sustainer of all success and blessing.

#### Literary Devices
Ruth 2:4 is rich with **Dialogue**, immediately establishing the character of Boaz and the spiritual atmosphere of his household through his and his reapers' direct speech. This vivid exchange makes the interaction authentic and highlights the mutual respect and shared faith. The phrase "And, behold," functions as an **Interjection** or **Exclamatory Particle**, drawing the reader's attention to Boaz's sudden and significant appearance, heightening the sense of **Divine Providence** at play. While not explicitly stated, the **Situational Irony** is palpable: Ruth, a destitute foreign widow, "happens" to glean in the field of the very kinsman who will become her redeemer, a "coincidence" that the biblical narrative subtly but powerfully presents as divinely guided. The entire scene serves as potent **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the blessed and redemptive relationship that will develop between Boaz and Ruth, rooted in their shared faith and God's overarching redemptive plan for His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 2:4 serves as a powerful theological statement about the seamless integration of faith into daily life and work. It portrays a society where God's presence and blessing are not confined to the temple or specific religious rituals but permeate ordinary interactions, even between employer and employee. This mutual invocation of the Lord's covenant name signifies a profound understanding that all prosperity, protection, and success ultimately derive from God's favor and active involvement. Boaz's character, introduced through this interaction, exemplifies a righteous leader who stewards his resources and relationships with a deep reverence for God, setting a high standard for ethical and spiritual conduct in the workplace. This verse underscores the theme of God's active involvement in human affairs, even in seemingly mundane circumstances, orchestrating encounters for His grand redemptive purposes, demonstrating His faithfulness to those who trust in Him.

* [Numbers 6:24-26](/numbers/6-24-26 "The Priestly Blessing")
* [Psalm 128:2](/psalms/128-2 "You will eat the fruit of your labor")
* [Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23-24 "Working for the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 2:4 offers a timeless and profound model for how believers should conduct themselves in all spheres of life, particularly in professional and social interactions. It challenges us to move beyond superficial greetings and to genuinely invoke God's presence and blessing upon those we encounter, whether they are colleagues, employees, employers, or strangers. Boaz's example encourages us to be leaders who care for our workers and associates, not merely as a means to an end, but as individuals created in God's image, deserving of respect, spiritual encouragement, and fair treatment. Conversely, the reapers' reciprocal response reminds us to honor those in authority and to recognize that true blessing and provision ultimately come from God, not solely from human effort or position. This verse calls us to cultivate a workplace culture—and indeed, a life—where God is acknowledged, His blessing is sought, and His presence is desired, transforming mundane tasks into opportunities for divine encounter, mutual edification, and a demonstration of the Kingdom of God. It reminds us that our faith is not just for Sundays but for every moment, every interaction, and every task, sanctifying our daily lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I more intentionally acknowledge God's presence and seek His blessing in my daily interactions, particularly in my workplace or community, moving beyond mere pleasantries?**
* **What specific aspects of Boaz's greeting and the reapers' response reveal about their character, and how can I emulate this example of godly leadership and mutual respect in my own relationships?**
* **In what ways can I actively foster an environment of spiritual encouragement and honor for God in my own spheres of influence, whether as an employer, employee, or friend?**
* **How does the "coincidence" of Ruth gleaning in Boaz's field challenge or deepen my understanding of divine providence and God's sovereign hand at work in the seemingly ordinary events of my own life?**

### FAQ
**Was it common for landowners to greet their workers in this way in ancient Israel?**

Answer: While the exact frequency of such greetings is not explicitly documented, the exchange in [Ruth 2:4](/ruth/2-4 "Boaz Greets His Reapers") reflects a deeply embedded cultural and spiritual practice in ancient Israel. The use of "The LORD be with you" and "The LORD bless thee" were common and significant blessings, often exchanged between individuals as expressions of good will and invocation of divine favor. For a wealthy landowner like Boaz to initiate such a greeting with his reapers, and for them to reciprocate, speaks volumes about his character and the spiritual atmosphere of his household. It suggests a paternalistic yet respectful relationship, where shared faith in YHWH transcended social hierarchy, fostering a sense of community and mutual regard under God. This stands in stark contrast to exploitative labor practices common in the ancient Near East and highlights Boaz's righteousness and adherence to the spirit of the Mosaic Law, which emphasized care for the vulnerable and justice in all dealings.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 2:4, with its depiction of Boaz as a benevolent and God-fearing kinsman, beautifully foreshadows the ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Boaz's initiative in blessing his workers, "The LORD [be] with you," echoes the very essence of Christ's incarnation—God "with us," the meaning of [Immanuel](/matthew/1-23 "Jesus is Immanuel"). Just as Boaz came to his field to oversee the harvest and provide for his laborers, so Christ came into the "field" of humanity, not to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "The Son of Man Came to Serve")). The mutual exchange of blessings between Boaz and his reapers reflects the new covenant relationship established through Christ, where believers are not merely servants but friends and co-heirs with Him ([John 15:15](/john/15-15 "You are My Friends"); [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Heirs with Christ")). Boaz's providential arrival and his subsequent extraordinary kindness to Ruth, a destitute foreigner, prefigure Christ's boundless grace extended to all who are alienated from God, bringing them into His family and providing ultimate redemption and security from the curse of sin ([Ephesians 2:12-13](/ephesians/2-12-13 "Once Far Off, Now Brought Near")). The blessings invoked in [Ruth 2:4](/ruth/2-4 "Boaz Greets His Reapers") find their ultimate fulfillment in the spiritual blessings poured out upon believers in Christ ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Blessed in Christ with Every Spiritual Blessing")), who is the true source of all life, prosperity, and eternal presence, ensuring that His people are forever "with Him" ([1_thessalonians/4-17](/1-thessalonians/4-17 "Always with the Lord")).

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

Psalms 129:7

Wherewith the mower filleth not his hand; nor he that bindeth sheaves his bosom.

Psalms 129:8

Neither do they which go by say, The blessing of the LORD [be] upon you: we bless you in the name of the LORD.

Judges 6:12

And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD [is] with thee, thou mighty man of valour.

2 Thessalonians 3:16

¶ Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord [be] with you all.

Luke 1:28

And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, [thou that art] highly favoured, the Lord [is] with thee: blessed [art] thou among women.

Psalms 118:26

Blessed [be] he that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD.

Ruth 4:11

And all the people that [were] in the gate, and the elders, said, [We are] witnesses. The LORD make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem: