This verse from Ruth 2:13 is Ruth expressing her gratitude to Boaz for his kindness and generosity. Let's break it down:
"Then she said, “Let me find favor in your sight, my lord..." This is a polite and humble expression of gratitude and a wish to remain in Boaz's good graces. Ruth is acknowledging his higher social standing ("my lord") and expressing her desire to continue receiving his favor.
"...because you have comforted me..." This is the core of her gratitude. Boaz has provided comfort to her. This comfort likely includes:
Practical comfort: Allowing her to glean in his field and ensuring she's protected and has access to water.
Emotional comfort: Showing her respect and consideration, especially considering she is a foreign widow (a vulnerable position in that society).
"...and because you have spoken kindly to your servant..." Boaz's words have been kind and encouraging. He hasn't just offered practical help but has also treated her with dignity and respect. This is significant because, as a Moabitess, Ruth might have expected prejudice and discrimination. Boaz's kind words would have been a welcome relief.
"...though I am not as one of your servants.” This is a statement of humility and self-awareness. Ruth acknowledges that she is not an Israelite and is an outsider. She recognizes she doesn't deserve the level of kindness Boaz has shown her. She is aware of the social hierarchy and that she doesn't truly belong to his household.
In essence, this verse shows:
Ruth's deep gratitude: She is genuinely thankful for Boaz's kindness and support.
Her humility: She recognizes her low social standing and doesn't take Boaz's generosity for granted.
Boaz's impact: His actions and words have significantly comforted and encouraged her, especially as a vulnerable foreigner.
The verse is important because it demonstrates Ruth's character and sets the stage for the development of their relationship. It highlights her humility, her appreciation for kindness, and her understanding of social dynamics. It also underscores Boaz's noble character and his willingness to extend grace and generosity to someone who is vulnerable and an outsider.
This verse from Ruth 2:13 is Ruth expressing her gratitude to Boaz for his kindness and generosity. Let's break it down:
"Then she said, “Let me find favor in your sight, my lord..." This is a polite and humble expression of gratitude and a wish to remain in Boaz's good graces. Ruth is acknowledging his higher social standing ("my lord") and expressing her desire to continue receiving his favor.
"...because you have comforted me..." This is the core of her gratitude. Boaz has provided comfort to her. This comfort likely includes:
Practical comfort: Allowing her to glean in his field and ensuring she's protected and has access to water.
Emotional comfort: Showing her respect and consideration, especially considering she is a foreign widow (a vulnerable position in that society).
"...and because you have spoken kindly to your servant..." Boaz's words have been kind and encouraging. He hasn't just offered practical help but has also treated her with dignity and respect. This is significant because, as a Moabitess, Ruth might have expected prejudice and discrimination. Boaz's kind words would have been a welcome relief.
"...though I am not as one of your servants.” This is a statement of humility and self-awareness. Ruth acknowledges that she is not an Israelite and is an outsider. She recognizes she doesn't deserve the level of kindness Boaz has shown her. She is aware of the social hierarchy and that she doesn't truly belong to his household.
In essence, this verse shows:
Ruth's deep gratitude: She is genuinely thankful for Boaz's kindness and support.
Her humility: She recognizes her low social standing and doesn't take Boaz's generosity for granted.
Boaz's impact: His actions and words have significantly comforted and encouraged her, especially as a vulnerable foreigner.
The verse is important because it demonstrates Ruth's character and sets the stage for the development of their relationship. It highlights her humility, her appreciation for kindness, and her understanding of social dynamics. It also underscores Boaz's noble character and his willingness to extend grace and generosity to someone who is vulnerable and an outsider.