Introduction
Welcome to our blog post on Ruth chapter 2. In this article, we will explore the questions and answers that arise from this chapter of the Bible. Ruth is a captivating book that tells the story of a Moabite woman who shows great loyalty and faithfulness to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Chapter 2 is a pivotal chapter in the book as it introduces Boaz, a relative of Naomi's late husband, who plays a significant role in the lives of Ruth and Naomi. Let's dive into the questions and answers that arise from this chapter.
1. Who is Boaz?
Boaz is introduced in Ruth chapter 2 as a prominent man from the clan of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. He is described as a wealthy landowner who shows kindness and generosity towards Ruth, a foreigner. Boaz is portrayed as a righteous and honorable man who upholds the laws and customs of the Israelites.
2. What is the significance of the barley harvest?
In Ruth chapter 2, the events take place during the barley harvest. The barley harvest was an important time in ancient Israel as it marked the beginning of the agricultural year. It was a time of abundance and provision, and people would gather in the fields to harvest the crops. The fact that Ruth goes to glean in Boaz's field during this time sets the stage for the unfolding of the story.
3. Why does Ruth go to glean in the fields?
Ruth goes to glean in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi. Gleaning was a practice in ancient Israel where the poor and the foreigners were allowed to gather the leftover crops from the fields after the harvest. It was a provision made by God to ensure that the most vulnerable in society had enough to eat. Ruth, being a foreigner and a widow, takes advantage of this provision and goes to glean in the fields.
4. How does Ruth catch the eye of Boaz?
Ruth catches the eye of Boaz when she arrives at his field to glean. Boaz notices her and asks his servant about her identity. The servant informs Boaz that Ruth is the Moabite woman who came back with Naomi from Moab. Boaz is impressed by Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness to Naomi and he is drawn to her character.
5. What is the significance of Boaz's greeting to the workers?
When Boaz arrives at the field, he greets his workers with a blessing: "The Lord be with you!" They respond by saying, "The Lord bless you!" This greeting is significant as it reflects the importance of God in the lives of the Israelites. It also sets the tone for the interactions between Boaz and Ruth, as we see later in the chapter.
6. Why does Boaz show kindness to Ruth?
Boaz shows kindness to Ruth because he has heard of her loyalty to Naomi. He tells Ruth not to go to any other field to glean but to stay in his field and gather with his female servants. Boaz offers her protection and provision, ensuring that she has enough to eat and drink. His kindness towards Ruth is driven by his compassion and admiration for her character.
7. What does it mean when Boaz calls Ruth a "daughter"?
When Boaz calls Ruth a "daughter," he is expressing a familial relationship with her. This term of endearment shows his care and concern for Ruth. It also foreshadows the future relationship between Boaz and Ruth, as we will see in the subsequent chapters.
8. How does Boaz go above and beyond in his provision for Ruth?
Boaz goes above and beyond in his provision for Ruth by instructing his workers to purposely leave extra grain for her to glean. He tells them not to rebuke her and to let her gather freely. Boaz's generosity towards Ruth ensures that she has an abundant harvest and is able to provide for herself and Naomi.
9. What does it mean when Boaz says, "May the Lord repay you for what you have done"?
When Boaz says, "May the Lord repay you for what you have done," he is acknowledging Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness to Naomi. He recognizes that she has left her homeland and her family to care for her mother-in-law. Boaz prays that God will bless Ruth for her actions and reward her for her kindness.
10. How does Ruth respond to Boaz's kindness?
Ruth responds to Boaz's kindness with humility and gratitude. She asks why she has found favor in his eyes, considering she is a foreigner. Ruth acknowledges Boaz's generosity and expresses her thanks for his kindness. Her response reflects her character and her deep appreciation for the help she has received.
11. What does it mean when Boaz says, "I have been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law"?
When Boaz says, "I have been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law," he is referring to Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness to Naomi. Boaz has heard of Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi and accompany her to Bethlehem. He recognizes the sacrifices Ruth has made and admires her selflessness.
12. How does Ruth's character shine through in this chapter?
Ruth's character shines through in this chapter through her loyalty, faithfulness, humility, and hard work. Despite the challenges she faces as a foreigner and a widow, Ruth remains steadfast in her commitment to Naomi. She demonstrates kindness and gratitude towards Boaz and shows a strong work ethic in the field.
13. What can we learn from Ruth's example?
We can learn several valuable lessons from Ruth's example. Her loyalty and faithfulness to her mother-in-law teach us the importance of caring for our family members. Ruth's humility and gratitude remind us to appreciate the help and kindness we receive from others. Her hard work and perseverance serve as an inspiration to always give our best effort, even in difficult circumstances.
14. How does this chapter set the stage for future events?
This chapter sets the stage for future events by introducing Boaz as a potential redeemer for Ruth and Naomi. Boaz's kindness and generosity towards Ruth foreshadow a deeper relationship between them. Additionally, the abundance of the barley harvest symbolizes the future provision and blessings that await Ruth and Naomi.
15. What role does God play in this chapter?
God plays a significant role in this chapter through his provision and guidance. The practice of gleaning, which allowed Ruth to gather food for herself and Naomi, was a provision established by God for the poor and the foreigners. God's guiding hand is evident in the circumstances that lead Ruth to Boaz's field and in the favor she finds in his eyes.
16. How does Ruth's story relate to our lives today?
Ruth's story relates to our lives today in several ways. Her loyalty and faithfulness remind us of the importance of standing by our loved ones in difficult times. Ruth's humility and gratitude serve as a reminder to appreciate the kindness and help we receive from others. Her perseverance and hard work inspire us to give our best effort, even when faced with challenges.
17. What can we take away from Ruth chapter 2?
From Ruth chapter 2, we can take away the importance of kindness, generosity, and compassion. Boaz's actions towards Ruth teach us the value of extending a helping hand to those in need. Ruth's character and actions inspire us to be loyal, faithful, humble, and hardworking in our own lives.
18. How does Ruth's story point to Jesus?
Ruth's story points to Jesus through the themes of redemption and provision. Just as Boaz redeems Ruth and provides for her, Jesus is our ultimate redeemer who offers salvation and provision for our lives. Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of Jesus, as we see in Matthew 1:5, further emphasizes her connection to the Messiah.
19. What can we look forward to in the next chapter?
In the next chapter of Ruth, we can look forward to the unfolding of Ruth and Boaz's relationship. We will see how their paths continue to intersect and how God's plan for their lives unfolds. We can anticipate more lessons on loyalty, faithfulness, and the providence of God.
20. Conclusion
Ruth chapter 2 is a rich and captivating chapter that raises important questions and provides meaningful answers. We have explored the significance of Boaz, the importance of the barley harvest, and the actions and character of Ruth. This chapter sets the stage for future events and serves as a reminder of the values of kindness, generosity, and faithfulness. As we continue our journey through the book of Ruth, may we be inspired by the example of Ruth and the providence of God.