Ruth 2:13

Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens.

Then she said {H559}, Let me find {H4672} favour {H2580} in thy sight {H5869}, my lord {H113}; for that thou hast comforted {H5162} me, and for that thou hast spoken {H1696} friendly {H3820} unto thine handmaid {H8198}, though I be not like unto one {H259} of thine handmaidens {H8198}.

She said, "My lord, I hope I continue pleasing you. You have comforted and encouraged me, even though I'm not one of your servants."

“My lord,” she said, “may I continue to find favor in your eyes, for you have comforted and spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your servant girls.”

Then she said, Let me find favor in thy sight, my lord, for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken kindly unto thy handmaid, though I be not as one of thy handmaidens.

Commentary

In Ruth 2:13, we hear Ruth's humble and grateful response to Boaz's extraordinary kindness. Having just been shown remarkable favor and protection while gleaning in his fields, Ruth expresses her deep appreciation, acknowledging her status as a foreigner and outsider.

Context

This verse immediately follows Boaz's compassionate instructions to his reapers regarding Ruth and his blessing over her (Ruth 2:12). Ruth, a Moabite widow who has come to Judah with her mother-in-law Naomi, is in a vulnerable position. Boaz, a wealthy and respected kinsman, has gone above and beyond the customary treatment for gleaners, offering her water, food, and protection. Her response here highlights her surprise and thankfulness for such unmerited favor.

Key Themes

  • Humility and Gratitude: Ruth's words, "Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord," demonstrate profound humility. She doesn't presume upon Boaz's kindness but expresses deep gratitude for his actions, particularly for having "comforted me, and... spoken friendly unto thine handmaid."
  • Divine Providence and Kindness: Boaz's actions are presented as a tangible expression of God's care. Ruth recognizes that his kindness is a source of comfort and relief in her difficult circumstances, echoing the blessing Boaz himself spoke about the Lord's full reward (Ruth 2:12).
  • The Outsider's Acceptance: Ruth explicitly states, "though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens," emphasizing her foreign status and the profound nature of Boaz's acceptance. This highlights the theme of inclusion and redemption for those who are marginalized.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "spoken friendly" translates from the Hebrew "spoken to the heart" (al-lev). This isn't just polite conversation; it signifies a deep, comforting, and encouraging communication that resonated with Ruth's spirit. It implies sincere empathy and genuine concern, going beyond mere formality. Boaz's words were not just kind, but they were deeply reassuring, bringing solace to her troubled heart.

Practical Application

Ruth's response serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude. In a world that often takes kindness for granted, her immediate and heartfelt thanks stand out. The verse also underscores the impact of genuine compassion; a few kind words and actions can profoundly comfort and affirm someone, especially those feeling vulnerable or overlooked. It encourages us to be instruments of God's favor, offering comfort and speaking kindly to others, just as Boaz did for Ruth, recognizing that such actions can bring unexpected hope and pave the way for greater blessings.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 1:18 (7 votes)

    And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more [sad].

  • Genesis 33:8 (4 votes)

    And he said, What [meanest] thou by all this drove which I met? And he said, [These are] to find grace in the sight of my lord.

  • Genesis 34:3 (4 votes)

    And his soul clave unto Dinah the daughter of Jacob, and he loved the damsel, and spake kindly unto the damsel.

  • Genesis 33:15 (3 votes)

    And Esau said, Let me now leave with thee [some] of the folk that [are] with me. And he said, What needeth it? let me find grace in the sight of my lord.

  • Philippians 2:3 (3 votes)

    [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

  • Genesis 43:14 (3 votes)

    And God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may send away your other brother, and Benjamin. If I be bereaved [of my children], I am bereaved.

  • 1 Samuel 25:41 (3 votes)

    And she arose, and bowed herself on [her] face to the earth, and said, Behold, [let] thine handmaid [be] a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.