Ruth 2:21 (KJV)

What does Ruth 2:21 mean?

Ruth 2:21 records Ruth telling Naomi that Boaz instructed her to stay close to his young men until the entire harvest was finished. Ruth is sharing Boaz’s invitation, which offered her ongoing protection and provision as she worked in his fields.

Ruth, a Moabite widow, is speaking to her mother-in-law Naomi about her experience gleaning in Boaz’s fields. Ruth repeats Boaz’s words, emphasizing that he told her to remain with his workers throughout the harvest. This shows Ruth’s careful attention to Boaz’s instructions and highlights the kindness and safety he offered her as a foreigner and outsider.

The Hebrew behind Ruth 2:21

• "Ruth" (רוּת, Ruth): The original Hebrew uses Ruth’s name, which reminds the reader she is a Moabite outsider, not an Israelite by birth.
• "Moabitess" (מוֹאֲבִיָּה, Moaviyyah): This word stresses Ruth’s foreign identity, underlining the unusual favor she receives in Israel.
• "keep fast" (דָּבַק, davaq): This word often means to cling or stick closely. Here, it suggests Ruth is to stay very near Boaz’s young men, not just work in the same field but remain close for safety and belonging.
• "ended" (כָּלָה, kalah): This word means to finish or complete. Boaz’s instruction covers the entire harvest season, not just a single day.

Why Ruth 2:21 matters

• Ruth 2:21 clarifies that Boaz’s kindness was not a one-time gesture; he offered Ruth ongoing protection and provision throughout the whole harvest.
• The verse highlights Ruth’s status as a foreigner and how unusual it was for her to receive such favor, deepening the story’s themes of inclusion and kindness.
• This detail connects to the wider narrative by showing Ruth’s obedience and trust, setting up further interactions between her and Boaz as the story unfolds.