And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man's name with whom I wrought to day is Boaz.

RUTH 2:19KJV
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Ruth 2:19 (KJV)

What does Ruth 2:19 mean?

Ruth 2:19 describes Naomi asking Ruth where she had gathered leftover grain that day and expressing a blessing on the person who showed Ruth kindness. Ruth then tells Naomi that the man who helped her was named Boaz.

In this verse, Naomi is surprised by the amount of grain Ruth brings home and wants to know where Ruth worked and who treated her so well. Ruth explains that she worked in the fields of Boaz, setting the stage for Boaz’s important role in their story. This conversation highlights Naomi’s concern for Ruth and the significance of Boaz’s kindness.

The Hebrew behind Ruth 2:19

  • "Gleaned" (לָקַט, laqat) refers to gathering leftover grain after the harvesters. This word shows Ruth’s humble position as someone relying on the generosity of landowners.
  • "Blessed" (בָּרוּךְ, barukh) is Naomi’s response, wishing good for the person who noticed Ruth. This word carries a sense of invoking God’s favor, not just a polite thank you.
  • "Knowledge" (נָכַר, nakar) means to notice or recognize. Naomi is struck that someone paid special attention to Ruth, a foreigner, which was not guaranteed in that culture.

Why Ruth 2:19 matters

  • This verse shows Naomi’s growing hope, as she recognizes that someone has treated Ruth with unusual kindness.
  • Ruth’s mention of Boaz introduces a key figure who will play a major role in the rest of the story, connecting Ruth and Naomi’s fate to Boaz’s actions.
  • The verse highlights the theme of kindness and recognition, especially toward outsiders, which is central to the book of Ruth.