Ruth 2:23 is a summary statement that emphasizes Ruth's hard work, loyalty, and dedication. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"So she stayed close to the maidens of Boaz...": Ruth continued to work diligently in Boaz's fields. Staying close to the maidens provided her with protection, guidance, and a sense of community. It also suggests that she was careful to follow the established practices and customs of gleaning.
"...to glean to the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest...": This specifies the duration of Ruth's gleaning. Barley was harvested first, followed by wheat. This indicates that Ruth remained in the fields for an extended period (likely several weeks), showing her commitment to providing for herself and Naomi.
"...and she lived with her mother-in-law.": This reinforces Ruth's unwavering loyalty and devotion to Naomi. Despite her hard work in the fields, Ruth continued to reside with and care for her mother-in-law, demonstrating her faithfulness to her promise and her deep love for Naomi.
In essence, this verse portrays Ruth as a hardworking, dedicated, and loyal woman who honored her commitments to both Boaz's generosity and Naomi's well-being. It highlights her virtuous character and sets the stage for the unfolding events in the book of Ruth.
Ruth 2:23 is a summary statement that emphasizes Ruth's hard work, loyalty, and dedication. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"So she stayed close to the maidens of Boaz...": Ruth continued to work diligently in Boaz's fields. Staying close to the maidens provided her with protection, guidance, and a sense of community. It also suggests that she was careful to follow the established practices and customs of gleaning.
"...to glean to the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest...": This specifies the duration of Ruth's gleaning. Barley was harvested first, followed by wheat. This indicates that Ruth remained in the fields for an extended period (likely several weeks), showing her commitment to providing for herself and Naomi.
"...and she lived with her mother-in-law.": This reinforces Ruth's unwavering loyalty and devotion to Naomi. Despite her hard work in the fields, Ruth continued to reside with and care for her mother-in-law, demonstrating her faithfulness to her promise and her deep love for Naomi.
In essence, this verse portrays Ruth as a hardworking, dedicated, and loyal woman who honored her commitments to both Boaz's generosity and Naomi's well-being. It highlights her virtuous character and sets the stage for the unfolding events in the book of Ruth.