Ruth 2:19
And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man's name with whom I wrought to day is Boaz.
Ruth 2:19 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Ruth, we see Ruth's mother-in-law, Naomi, inquiring about where Ruth had been gleaning that day. Gleaning was the practice of collecting leftover crops from fields after the main harvest had been completed. Naomi blesses the man who had taken notice of Ruth, showing gratitude for his kindness towards her daughter-in-law. Ruth then reveals that she had been working in the fields of Boaz that day. Boaz was a wealthy and honorable man who had shown favor towards Ruth, allowing her to glean in his fields and even providing her with protection and extra food. This verse highlights the importance of kindness, compassion, and generosity, as well as the concept of divine providence. It sets the stage for the unfolding love story between Ruth and Boaz, which ultimately leads to redemption and blessings for both of them.
Theological Overview
Upon examining the theological interpretation of the verse, one can see that it demonstrates the importance of divine providence and guidance in the lives of individuals. Ruth's mother-in-law, Naomi, blesses the man, Boaz, who took notice of Ruth while she was gleaning in his fields. This act of kindness and generosity from Boaz towards Ruth leads to significant events in their lives, ultimately playing a crucial role in their future redemption and restoration. The word study of "gleaned" reveals a symbolic act of gathering remnants, underscoring the idea of God providing abundantly from seemingly small and leftover sources. Additionally, the word "wroughtest" emphasizes Ruth's hard work and dedication in her labor, showcasing her character and virtues. Overall, this verse highlights God's sovereignty in orchestrating events for the good of His people and the importance of faithfulness and integrity in the midst of trials.
Ruth 2:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
And her mother-in-law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to-day? and where hast thou wrought? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she showed her mother-in-law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man's name with whom I wrought to-day is Boaz.
World English Bible
Her mother-in-law said to her, “Where have you gleaned today? Where have you worked? Blessed be he who noticed you.” She showed her mother-in-law with whom she had worked, and said, “The man’s name with whom I worked today is Boaz.”
Douay-Rheims
And her mother in law said to her: Where hast thou gleaned today, and where hast thou wrought? blessed be he that hath had pity on thee. And she told her with whom she had wrought: and she told the man's name, that he was called Booz.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then her mother in lawe saide vnto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he, that knewe thee. And she shewed her mother in lawe, with whome she had wrought, and saide, The mans name, with whom I wrought to day, is Boaz.