What we read at the beginning of the second chapter of Ruth draws our attention first of all to the commandment that...
What we read at the beginning of the second chapter of Ruth draws our attention first of all to the commandment that Boaz obeys. This commandment requires that not every last ear of grain be gathered from the field, but that some be left so the poor can glean it and feed themselves. Gleaning is hard work, of course, but it offers a way to survive without begging or selling oneself into bondage. For women who had no economic or social rights in ancient Israel, this was in fact their only chance of survival. What is also remarkable is the attitude toward property that this commandment teaches us, and its attitude toward the dignity of the poor. For our almsgiving, often quite generous, is just as often humiliating to those who receive it.
It is no less remarkable that, in showing mercy to Ruth, Boaz does not exalt his own virtues. Through his hands, God rewards Ruth for the good she has done. In fact, without this, almsgiving will not benefit the person who gives it.
2 Providence directs Ruth to glean in Boaz's field, Rut 2:1-3.
The favour which Boaz shewed her, Rut 2:4-16.
Her return to Naomi, Rut 2:17-23.
2:2 Glean - Which was permitted to the poor, and the stranger, Deu 24:19, nor was she ashamed to confess her poverty, nor would sheeat the bread of idleness. In whose sight - For though it was their duty to permit this, yet she thought it might perhaps be denied her; at least, that it became her modestly and humbly to acknowledge their kindness herein.
2:3 Her hap - It was a chance in reference to second causes, but ordered by God's providence. God wisely orders small events, even those that seem altogether contingent. Many a great affair is brought about by a little turn, fortuitous as to men, but designed by God.
2:4 Said, etc - They expressed their piety, even in their civil conversation, and worldly transactions; which now so many are ashamed of.
2:7 I pray - She did not boldly intrude herself, but modestly ask leave of us. 'Till now - She is not retired through idleness, for she hath been diligent and constant in her labours. The house - In the little house or tent, which was set up in the fields at these times, and was necessary in those hot countries, where the labourers might retire for a little repose or repast. Being weary with her continued labours, she comes hither to take a little rest.
2:8 Maidens - Not by the young men, to avoid both occasion of sin, and matter of scandal. Herein he shews his piety and prudence.
2:9 Touch - So as to offer any incivility or injury to thee.
2:10 Fell - This was the humblest posture of reverence, either civil when performed to men, or religious, when to God.Take knowledge - That is, shew any respect and kindness to me.
2:12 Wings - That is, protection and care. An allusion either to hens, which protect and cherish their young ones under their wings; or to the wings of the Cherubim, between which God dwelt.
2:13 Tho' I be not - I humbly implore the continuance of thy good opinion of me, though I do not deserve it, being a person more mean, necessitous, and, obscure, a stranger, and one born of heathen parents, and not of the holy and honourable people of Israel, as they are.