“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.”– Ruth 2:13 (KJV)
“I hope I continue to please you, sir. You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me, even though I’m not one of your servants.”– Ruth 2:13 (NLT)
“She said, ‘Oh, sir, such a favor you’ve shown me! You’ve comforted me by speaking so kindly to me, even though I’m not one of your workers.’”– Ruth 2:13 (MSG)
What Does Ruth 2:13 Mean?
Ruth 2:13 is an important verse in the story of Ruth, found in the Old Testament of the Bible. In this verse, we see Ruth expressing gratitude to Boaz for his kindness towards her. This moment is crucial because it highlights the relationships between people and the importance of kindness and compassion in everyday life. Ruth, a Moabite woman, finds herself in a foreign land after the death of her husband, yet she is shown respect and kindness by Boaz. It reflects the essence of human connection and understanding, where kindness transcends cultural and social barriers. In a time when many people may have looked down upon her, Boaz treated her with dignity and compassion.
This verse encourages us to remember how even small acts of kindness can have significant impacts on those around us. Ruth’s acknowledgment of Boaz’s favor not only demonstrates her humility but also her appreciation for the kindness shown in difficult circumstances. It teaches us that showing favor and kindness to others, especially those who are in need or are marginalized, creates a ripple effect that can uplift someone’s spirit and change lives for the better.
Ruth 2:13 Explanation and Commentary
The context of Ruth’s statement in this verse comes after she has been gleaning in the fields of Boaz. She is a widow who has returned to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law, Naomi. Gleaning was a practice where the poor and foreigners could gather leftover crops from the fields after the harvesters had finished. This practice reflected divine provisions in the Law of Moses, showing care for those who were needy and vulnerable. By allowing Ruth to glean in his fields, Boaz fulfills that obligation, but he goes further by ensuring her safety and providing her with extra food. Ruth’s reaction to Boaz’s kindness is heartfelt and sincere, as she recognizes that his actions toward her are a mark of favor.
Ruth’s use of the term “kindly” reveals the depth of her gratitude and signifies an emotional response. She appreciates not just the physical provision of food but the warmth of human compassion. Boaz’s kindness stands out in a society where widows and foreigners often faced hardships. This dialogue between Ruth and Boaz illustrates the beauty of friendship and support that builds in a caring community.
We learn from this that kindness is not limited to words but should also extend to actions. Boaz’s treatment of Ruth is exemplary, showing us the importance of being mindful of how we treat others. In our lives, we should always strive to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement, making a positive difference in someone’s life. The relationship that forms between Ruth and Boaz ultimately leads to a divine purpose and blessing, demonstrating how acts of kindness can create pathways for future blessings.
Context of Ruth 2:13
Understanding the context of Ruth 2:13 requires us to look at the entire book of Ruth. The story unfolds during the time of the judges in Israel, a period marked by social upheaval and uncertainty. Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi, experienced significant loss, having lost her husband and two sons. Faced with hardship, Naomi decided to return to her homeland, Israel, and encouraged her daughters-in-law, including Ruth, to stay in Moab, where they could find new husbands. However, Ruth’s determination to stay with Naomi highlights her loyalty and commitment to family.
This determination leads Ruth to the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband. The act of gleaning is critical for Ruth, as it not only provides food but also establishes her relationship with Boaz, a figure who exemplifies generosity and righteousness. His actions in allowing Ruth to glean and protecting her showcase an understanding of the social customs that promote care for others, especially the vulnerable. The context of Ruth 2:13 captures the moment of transition from helplessness to hope, as Ruth finds favor in Boaz’s eyes. By understanding the background of their relationship, we realize how deep the themes of loyalty, kindness, and divine providence are woven into the fabric of this story.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ruth 2:13
First, we notice Ruth addressing Boaz respectfully, calling him “sir” in some translations. This form of address speaks volumes about Ruth’s acknowledgment of Boaz’s position and her gratitude. It reflects the need for humility and respect in our relationships. Despite her status as a foreign widow, Ruth shows courtesy that enhances her character and integrity.
The phrase “comforted me” reveals Ruth’s deep emotional response to Boaz’s kindness. Comfort in times of grief or struggle is crucial; it brings peace and assurance. For many of us, recalling moments of kindness can provide comfort, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. Ruth’s experience echoes our need for comfort, and we can learn to be the person who provides that comfort for others.
Additionally, the phrase “speak friendly” gives insight into how words of kindness can change a person’s outlook. Boaz’s words were not just casual remarks; they were intentionally kind and considerate. This reinforces the idea that our words carry weight. We should strive to be people who uplift and encourage others through what we say. Ruth’s acknowledgment of Boaz’s favor illustrates how we can recognize and express gratitude for the kindness shown to us.
Lessons to Learn From Ruth 2:13
The story of Ruth, particularly the message in Ruth 2:13, teaches us vital lessons about humanity, kindness, and compassion. We are reminded of the importance of recognizing kindness in our lives. Just as Ruth appreciated Boaz’s favor, we, too, should express our gratitude to those who show us kindness, be it family, friends, or even strangers. Taking the time to acknowledge someone’s generosity can foster deeper connections and can encourage others to continue doing good deeds.
The verse also hints at the strength of resilience in the face of adversity. Ruth’s journey to Bethlehem and her willingness to glean in Boaz’s fields reflect a spirit of determination and hard work. We can learn to approach our challenges with the same tenacity, trusting that our circumstances may lead us to unexpected blessings. Even in hard times, we can rise above our struggles and find opportunities for growth and support.
Finally, the verse speaks to the significance of being aware of those around us who may be vulnerable or in need. Boaz’s actions mirror the communal responsibility we have towards one another. Whether at work, school, or within our communities, we should always strive to extend kindness to everyone, recognizing that we may enrich someone’s life by simply being kind or helpful.
Final Thoughts
Ruth 2:13 encapsulates the themes of kindness, resilience, and community support that we can carry into our own lives. Through Ruth’s heartfelt gratitude towards Boaz, we are inspired to practice kindness in our daily interactions and acknowledge when others lift us during difficult times. Let us reflect on our actions, striving to spread kindness, be it through words or deeds. As we journey through our lives in a shared community, we should remember that we can consciously create an environment of kindness and support by drawing inspiration from stories like that of Ruth and Boaz.
As we explore more topics in the Bible, we can uncover more lessons and stories that encourage us on our own paths. We can learn about the strength of faith in Acts 14:24, the importance of guidance in Joshua 10:17, and the blessings of community in Joshua 10:16. Together, we can grow, learn, and inspire one another.