Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

Ruth 2:10

Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?

Ruth 2:10 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, Ruth expresses her deep gratitude and humility when she realizes that she has found favor in the eyes of Boaz. Falling on her face and bowing to the ground were signs of reverence and respect in ancient cultures, showing her humility and gratitude for the kindness and favor Boaz had shown her. By referring to herself as a stranger, Ruth acknowledges her outsider status and low social standing, recognizing that she did not deserve the attention and kindness shown to her. Her question, "Why have I found grace in thine eyes?" reflects her astonishment and gratitude at the unexpected favor she has received. This verse highlights the theme of kindness and compassion in the story of Ruth, as well as the idea that one can find favor and grace even in unlikely circumstances.

Theological Overview

In this verse, Ruth expresses her deep gratitude and humility towards Boaz for showing her favor. By falling on her face and bowing to the ground, she demonstrates her respect and reverence for him. The word 'grace' in this context can be understood as unmerited favor or kindness. Ruth acknowledges that she is a foreigner, a stranger in the land, and questions why Boaz would show her such kindness. Through theological interpretation, we can see parallels with God's grace towards His people. Just as Ruth found favor in Boaz's eyes, believers find favor in God's eyes despite their shortcomings and status as strangers in this world. The word 'grace' carries great significance in the Christian faith, symbolizing God's unmerited favor towards humanity. As we reflect on Ruth's words, we are reminded of God's abundant grace and love towards us, undeserving as we may be.

Ruth 2:10 in other translations

American Standard Version

Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found favor in thy sight, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a foreigner?

World English Bible

Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favor in your sight, that you should take knowledge of me, since I am a foreigner?”

Douay-Rheims

She fell on her face, and worshipping upon the ground, said to him: Whence cometh this to me, that I should find grace before thy eyes, and that thou shouldst vouchsafe to take notice of me, a woman of another country?

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then shee fell on her face, and bowed her selfe to the ground, and said vnto him, How haue I found fauour in thine eyes, that thou shouldest know me, seeing I am a stranger?