Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn.
RUTH 2:9KJVWhat does Ruth 2:9 mean?
Ruth 2:9 shows Boaz telling Ruth to stay close to his workers in the field, promising her safety and access to water while she gathers leftover grain. Boaz reassures Ruth that he has instructed the young men not to bother her and invites her to drink from the water they have drawn whenever she is thirsty.
In this scene, Boaz, the owner of the field, is speaking directly to Ruth, a foreign woman gleaning among his harvesters. He is making sure she feels protected and welcomed, even though she is an outsider. Boaz’s words highlight both his kindness and the practical steps he takes to ensure Ruth’s well-being as she works.
The Hebrew behind Ruth 2:9
- "Touch" (נָגַע, nagaʿ): This word means to physically touch or strike. Boaz’s use of it emphasizes that he has strictly forbidden his young men from harassing or harming Ruth in any way.
- "Athirst" (צָמֵא, tsame): This word means to be thirsty. Boaz’s invitation for Ruth to drink from the vessels shows unusual generosity, since gleaners usually did not have this privilege.
- "Vessels" (כְּלִי, keli): This refers to containers or jars. Allowing Ruth to drink from the same vessels as his workers signals her inclusion and dignity among the harvesters.
Why Ruth 2:9 matters
- Ruth 2:9 clears up any question about Ruth’s safety, showing that Boaz is actively protecting her from potential mistreatment in a vulnerable situation.
- The verse highlights Boaz’s generosity, as he offers Ruth not only protection but also the same refreshment his hired workers receive, which was not a given for gleaners.
- This moment connects to the wider story by setting the tone for Boaz and Ruth’s relationship, showing early signs of respect and kindness that will shape the rest of the narrative.