Ruth 2:15
And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not:
Ruth 2:15 · King James Version
Meaning
In this Bible verse, Boaz demonstrates kindness and generosity towards Ruth, a widow who has been allowed to glean in his fields. The act of gleaning was a provision in ancient Israel where the poor and marginalized could gather leftover crops from the fields after the main harvest. Boaz goes above and beyond the legal requirements by instructing his young men to allow Ruth to glean even among the sheaves, where the best of the harvest is found. This act not only shows Boaz's compassion towards Ruth but also his respect for her dignity and autonomy. By instructing his workers not to reproach her, Boaz ensures that Ruth is able to gather enough food without feeling ashamed or embarrassed. This verse highlights the importance of kindness, generosity, and compassion towards those who are in need, serving as a reminder to us all to treat others with respect and dignity.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of Ruth 2:15, it is important to note the significance of Boaz's actions towards Ruth. In this verse, Boaz commands his young men to allow Ruth to glean even among the sheaves and not to reproach her. This act of kindness and generosity by Boaz towards Ruth can be seen as a reflection of God's grace and provision for His people. By allowing Ruth to gather grain among the sheaves, Boaz is not only providing for her physical needs but also showing compassion and mercy towards her. This act can be interpreted as a demonstration of the concept of gleaning in the Old Testament, which symbolizes the importance of caring for the poor and vulnerable in society. Boaz's actions towards Ruth can also be viewed as a foreshadowing of the redemption and protection that God provides for His people, ultimately pointing to the greater spiritual truths found in the Bible.
Ruth 2:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not.
World English Bible
When she had risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and don’t reproach her.
Douay-Rheims
And she arose from thence, to glean the ears of corn as before. And Booz commanded his servants, saying: If she would even reap with you, hinder her not:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when she arose to gleane, Boaz commanded his seruants, saying, Let her gather among the sheaues, and doe not rebuke her.