This verse (Ruth 2:9) is part of Boaz's instructions to his workers regarding Ruth when she comes to glean in his field. Let's break it down:
"Let your eyes be on the field that they reap, and go after them." This means that Ruth should follow the harvesters as they work, collecting the leftover grain they leave behind. This was a right given to the poor and marginalized by Israelite law (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19-22). Boaz is explicitly inviting her to exercise that right in his field.
"Haven’t I commanded the young men not to touch you?" This is a direct order from Boaz to his male workers. "Touch" here means to bother, harass, or assault Ruth. He is providing her with protection and safety, ensuring she won't be taken advantage of by his workers. This shows Boaz's kindness and concern for her well-being as a vulnerable widow and foreigner.
"When you are thirsty, go to the vessels, and drink from that which the young men have drawn." Boaz is providing Ruth with access to water. This was another act of generosity, as water was a precious commodity, especially during harvest. He's not just allowing her to glean food, but also ensuring she has refreshment. This shows more than just compliance with the law; it reflects genuine hospitality and consideration.
In Summary:
Boaz is essentially telling Ruth:
You are welcome to glean in my field.
You will be safe and protected from harassment.
You will have access to water.
Significance:
This verse is significant because it reveals Boaz's character. He is:
Kind and Generous: He goes above and beyond the requirements of the law to ensure Ruth's well-being.
Protective: He takes proactive steps to safeguard her from potential harm.
Respectful: He treats her with dignity and compassion.
These qualities make Boaz a "kinsman-redeemer" type and foreshadow his later actions in fulfilling that role for Ruth and Naomi. This verse establishes the beginning of their relationship and highlights Boaz's righteousness and the providence of God in providing for Ruth and Naomi during their hardship. It also demonstrates the importance of treating the vulnerable with kindness and respect.
This verse (Ruth 2:9) is part of Boaz's instructions to his workers regarding Ruth when she comes to glean in his field. Let's break it down:
"Let your eyes be on the field that they reap, and go after them." This means that Ruth should follow the harvesters as they work, collecting the leftover grain they leave behind. This was a right given to the poor and marginalized by Israelite law (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19-22). Boaz is explicitly inviting her to exercise that right in his field.
"Haven’t I commanded the young men not to touch you?" This is a direct order from Boaz to his male workers. "Touch" here means to bother, harass, or assault Ruth. He is providing her with protection and safety, ensuring she won't be taken advantage of by his workers. This shows Boaz's kindness and concern for her well-being as a vulnerable widow and foreigner.
"When you are thirsty, go to the vessels, and drink from that which the young men have drawn." Boaz is providing Ruth with access to water. This was another act of generosity, as water was a precious commodity, especially during harvest. He's not just allowing her to glean food, but also ensuring she has refreshment. This shows more than just compliance with the law; it reflects genuine hospitality and consideration.
In Summary:
Boaz is essentially telling Ruth:
You are welcome to glean in my field.
You will be safe and protected from harassment.
You will have access to water.
Significance:
This verse is significant because it reveals Boaz's character. He is:
Kind and Generous: He goes above and beyond the requirements of the law to ensure Ruth's well-being.
Protective: He takes proactive steps to safeguard her from potential harm.
Respectful: He treats her with dignity and compassion.
These qualities make Boaz a "kinsman-redeemer" type and foreshadow his later actions in fulfilling that role for Ruth and Naomi. This verse establishes the beginning of their relationship and highlights Boaz's righteousness and the providence of God in providing for Ruth and Naomi during their hardship. It also demonstrates the importance of treating the vulnerable with kindness and respect.