Ruth 2:11
And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore.
Ruth 2:11 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Book of Ruth, Boaz acknowledges Ruth's remarkable loyalty and devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Boaz commends Ruth for leaving her homeland, family, and everything she knew to stay with Naomi after the death of her husband. Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi and accompany her back to Bethlehem showed incredible selflessness and compassion. Boaz's recognition of Ruth's sacrifices highlights the importance of loyalty, kindness, and empathy in relationships. It serves as a powerful example of the deep bond that can be formed between individuals, transcending blood ties and cultural differences. Ruth's actions demonstrate the value of putting others before oneself and the rewards that come from acts of love and selflessness. This verse is a reminder of the power of human connection and the impact that simple acts of kindness can have on others.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Ruth sheds light on the themes of loyalty, faithfulness, and the providence of God. Boaz acknowledges Ruth's selfless devotion to her mother-in-law Naomi, leaving her homeland and people to stay with Naomi and follow her to Bethlehem. Boaz recognizes and praises Ruth's actions as proof of her character and her commitment to her family. From a theological perspective, this verse highlights the importance of caring for others, even in difficult circumstances, and the rewards that can come from obedience and sacrifice. The word study in this verse could focus on the Hebrew words for "mother in law" (חֲמוֹתֵךְ) and "father" (×ָבִ֖יךְ), which reveal the familial relationships at play in the story. This verse serves as a reminder of the enduring values of love, loyalty, and selflessness that are central to the biblical narrative.
Ruth 2:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been showed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother-in-law since the death of thy husband; and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people that thou knewest not heretofore.
World English Bible
Boaz answered her, “It has fully been shown me, all that you have done to your mother-in-law since the death of your husband; and how you have left your father and your mother, and the land of your birth, and have come to a people that you didn’t know before.
Douay-Rheims
And he answered her: All hath been told me, that thou hast done to thy mother in law after the death of thy husband: and how thou hast left thy parents, and the land wherein thou wast born, and art come to a people which thou knewest not heretofore.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Boaz answered, and said vnto her, All is told and shewed me that thou hast done vnto thy mother in lawe, since the death of thine husband, and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and ye land where thou wast borne, and art come vnto a people which thou knewest not in time past.