Ruth 2:7 - She said, ‘Please let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves.’ So she came, and has continued even from the morning until now, except that she rested a little in the house.”

Generated Verse: Ruth 2:7

What does "Ruth 2:7" mean?


This verse (Ruth 2:7) is part of the story of Ruth, a Moabite widow, seeking to provide for herself and her mother-in-law Naomi after they've both been widowed. Let's break it down:

"She said, ‘Please let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves.’":
Gleaning was a legal right and social safety net for the poor in ancient Israel. Landowners were expected to leave some grain behind in the fields after the main harvest, which the poor could then collect (glean) to feed themselves.
Reapers were the workers who harvested the grain.
Sheaves were bundles of cut grain stalks that had been gathered together.
So, Ruth asked permission from someone (presumably the foreman or manager of the field) to follow behind the harvesters and collect the leftover grain. She's being humble and respectful by asking for permission, even though she likely had a right to glean.

"So she came, and has continued even from the morning until now...": This shows Ruth's work ethic and diligence. She started working early in the morning and has been working steadily all day.

"...except that she rested a little in the house.": This indicates she took a short break in the "house," which likely refers to a shelter or shaded area where the workers could rest and take a break from the heat. It also highlights that while she's hard-working, she's also human and needs to rest.

Overall Meaning:

The verse paints a picture of Ruth as a hardworking, respectful, and resourceful woman. She is proactive in seeking a way to provide for herself and Naomi. She's not afraid to work hard and is grateful for the opportunity to glean in the field. The verse also shows her humility in asking permission and her responsible nature in taking a short break when needed. It sets the stage for the events to follow, where Boaz, the owner of the field, takes notice of her character and kindness. This verse is important because it establishes Ruth's character before Boaz enters the picture, highlighting that she is worthy of the kindness and eventual marriage that comes her way.