The second chapter is divided into three parts: in verses 1-3, the scene takes place in the morning in Bethlehem. In verses 4-17, the author artfully and idyllically describes the scene throughout the day in Boaz’s fields. Finally, verses 18-23 depict Ruth’s return to Bethlehem in the evening.
The narrator skillfully introduces Boaz, Naomi’s wealthy relative, into the scene. With the arrival of this new character, the women—and the audience—gain a reason to hope for help in meeting their needs, as the wealthy had a duty to support the poor within their family. However, Ruth does not expect help; she asks Naomi to allow her to go and glean behind the reapers (2), for it is harvest time. Ruth does not plan to go to the field of Naomi’s wealthy relative—she doesn’t even know him—but “destiny”—the silent presence of the God of widows—guides her to one of Boaz’s fields (3). Gathering grain behind a reaper was the right of the destitute. Yet, Ruth does not claim this right; she just seeks a compassionate heart. Boaz understands her situation, and Ruth shows her gratitude.
Boaz takes Ruth under his protection, and after threshing barley, she returns to her mother-in-law. Naomi recognizes God’s blessing through Ruth’s work and blesses the man who has helped her. At this moment, Ruth reveals the identity of her protector, and Naomi blesses the Lord once more. At the end of the first chapter, Naomi calls herself Mara, bitter because she feels rejected by God and distant from Ruth. Now, Naomi speaks of Ruth as a member of the family and praises the Lord for His faithfulness. Boaz is not only a relative of Naomi and Elimelech but also a relative of Ruth (2:20). God has raised up a “go’el,” a “redeemer,” for these two women who have placed their complete trust in the God of foreigners, widows, and the poor.
Do we recognize the blessings God gives us? Do we understand that God is always with the community, even during the toughest moments? Do we show our gratitude to God for the gift of life?