Ruth 2:13

Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens.

Ruth 2:13 (KJV)

Context

The Book of Ruth tells of a Moabite woman who showed remarkable loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, after both their husbands died. Ruth went to glean grain in the fields of Boaz, a close relative of Naomi’s late husband. In this verse, Ruth responds to Boaz’s unexpected kindness and protection.

Meaning

Ruth begins by asking to “find favour” in Boaz’s sight. She does not demand his kindness; she humbly requests it. She calls him “my lord,” a respectful title that shows her awareness of his higher position. She explains why his words mean so much: he has “comforted” her and “spoken friendly” to her. The original Hebrew phrase for “spoken friendly” literally means “spoken to the heart,” suggesting tender, encouraging speech that reaches the inner person.

Ruth then compares herself to Boaz’s other servant girls. She says, “I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens.” She knows she is a foreigner from Moab, with no claim on Boaz’s protection. Her words show genuine humility. She does not feel entitled to his favour, yet she receives it with gratitude.

Biblical connections

This verse illustrates the principle of grace: undeserved favour given by a superior to an inferior. Ruth had done nothing to earn Boaz’s kindness, yet he freely offered it. This mirrors how God shows grace to believers, who receive mercy they do not deserve. The interaction also foreshadows the greater redemption through Christ, who as our kinsman-redeemer speaks comfort to the weary and grants favour despite our unworthiness.

Application

Ruth’s response teaches us to acknowledge kindness with humility and thankfulness. We should not take acts of compassion for granted, but recognise them as gifts. Her attitude also shows the power of kind words. Boaz’s friendly speech gave Ruth comfort and encouragement in a difficult time. As followers of God, we are called to speak kindly to others, especially those who are vulnerable or marginalised, regardless of their background or social standing.

Ruth’s plea for continued favour reminds us to rely on God’s grace. Just as she depended on Boaz’s kindness, we should depend on God’s favour and seek it earnestly through prayer and a humble heart.

Reflection

When we receive unexpected kindness, do we respond with Ruth’s humility and gratitude? Do we recognise that every good gift comes from God’s hand? Let us learn to receive grace with a thankful heart and to extend comfort to others through our words, just as Boaz did for Ruth.