The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust.

RUTH 2:12KJV
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Ruth 2:12 (KJV)

What does Ruth 2:12 mean?

Ruth 2:12 expresses a blessing, asking that the LORD reward Ruth for her actions and give her a full reward, since she has sought refuge and trust under the protection of the God of Israel. The verse uses the image of taking shelter under God's wings to describe Ruth's trust and commitment.

In this scene, Boaz is speaking to Ruth in the fields of Bethlehem. Ruth, a Moabite widow, has left her homeland to care for her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi. Boaz recognizes Ruth’s loyalty and faith, and he prays that the God of Israel will repay her kindness and provide for her, using the picture of a bird sheltering its young to describe God’s care.

The Hebrew behind Ruth 2:12

  • LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God in Israel’s scriptures, emphasizing that Ruth is coming under the care of Israel’s specific, covenant God, not just a generic deity.
  • recompense (שָׁלַם, shalam): This word means to repay or make whole. Boaz is not just wishing Ruth good fortune, but specifically asking God to make up for what she has given up and to restore her.
  • wings (כָּנָף, kanaph): The word refers to the wings of a bird, often used in the Bible as a symbol for protection and safety. Boaz is saying Ruth has come to seek safety and belonging with God, much like a chick under its mother’s wings.
  • trust (חָסָה, chasah): This word means to seek refuge or protection. Ruth’s action is described as a deliberate choice to rely on God for care and security.

Why Ruth 2:12 matters

  • Ruth 2:12 shows that Ruth’s faith and loyalty are recognized and honored by Boaz, an Israelite, even though she is a foreigner. This highlights the openness of God’s care to outsiders who seek Him.
  • The verse connects Ruth’s personal story to the larger theme of God’s protection and reward for those who trust Him, using familiar imagery from Israel’s worship and prayers.
  • The blessing Boaz gives sets the tone for the rest of Ruth’s story, where God’s provision and kindness become visible in her life, showing how faith and kindness are valued in the biblical narrative.