Ruth 2:6 - The servant who was set over the reapers answered, “It is the Moabite lady who came back with Naomi out of the country of Moab.

Generated Verse: Ruth 2:6

What does "Ruth 2:6" mean?


This verse (Ruth 2:6) sets the scene in the story of Ruth and Boaz. Here's a breakdown of its meaning and significance:

"The servant who was set over the reapers answered..." This identifies the speaker as a supervisor or foreman overseeing the field workers during the harvest. He's in a position of authority and knowledge about what's happening in the field.
"...“It is the Moabite lady who came back with Naomi out of the country of Moab." This is the crucial part. It explains who Ruth is:
"Moabite lady": This highlights Ruth's foreign origin. Moabites were not Israelites, and there was often tension and separation between the two groups. This immediately marks Ruth as an outsider.
"...who came back with Naomi": This refers to Naomi, an Israelite woman who had lived in Moab with her husband and sons. After her husband and sons died, Naomi returned to Bethlehem, and Ruth chose to accompany her.
"...out of the country of Moab": This reinforces Ruth's foreign background and her journey to Israel.

Significance:

Introduces Ruth to the reader/listener: For those unfamiliar with the story, this verse identifies the woman working in the field.
Highlights Ruth's status as a foreigner: Her Moabite identity is central to the story. It creates a potential obstacle to her acceptance and integration into Israelite society. Under Jewish law, Moabites were forbidden from entering the assembly of the Lord until the tenth generation (Deuteronomy 23:3).
Emphasizes Ruth's loyalty and devotion: The fact that she left her homeland to return with Naomi speaks volumes about her character and her commitment to her mother-in-law.
Sets up the potential for the Boaz/Ruth relationship: By identifying her and her connection to Naomi, the verse prepares the ground for Boaz's later interactions with Ruth, which will ultimately lead to their marriage and the continuation of Naomi's family line. This line will also lead to King David.

In essence, this verse establishes Ruth's identity, her foreign origin, and the foundation of her presence in Bethlehem, laying the groundwork for the unfolding narrative of the Book of Ruth.