Ruth 2:21
And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.
Ruth 2:21 (KJV)
Context
The book of Ruth takes place during the time of the judges, a period of moral and spiritual decline in Israel. A famine forced Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons to leave Bethlehem and live in Moab. There Elimelech died, and his sons married Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah. After about ten years, both sons also died, leaving Naomi with her two daughters-in-law.
Ruth chose to stay with Naomi and return to Bethlehem. They arrived at the beginning of the barley harvest, and Ruth went to glean in the fields to provide food for them. She happened to come to the field of Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband. In Ruth 2:21, Ruth tells Naomi what Boaz had said to her.
Meaning
Ruth reports Boaz’s words: “Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.” The phrase “keep fast” means to stay close or cling to. Boaz instructed Ruth to remain with his young men, his reapers, throughout the entire harvest season. This was not a one-time permission but an ongoing provision, extending from the barley harvest through the wheat harvest, as confirmed by Ruth 2:23, which says she kept close to Boaz’s maidens until both harvests ended.
Boaz’s instruction gave Ruth safety and provision. By staying near his workers, she was protected from harm and could gather grain without fear. His words also show his authority and the orderliness of his household. Ruth accepted his instruction with humility and trust, and she faithfully shared the good news with Naomi.
This verse also highlights Ruth’s role as a faithful messenger. She did not keep the good news to herself but told Naomi, who had been grieving and bitter. Ruth’s report brought hope and encouragement to her mother-in-law, showing the importance of sharing God’s kindness with others. Her words turned Naomi’s attention toward the provision that God was already preparing.
Biblical connections
Gleaning was a practice established in the Mosaic Law, which allowed the poor and foreigners to gather leftover grain from the fields. This law demonstrated God’s concern for the vulnerable and encouraged generosity among the Israelites. Boaz went beyond the letter of the law, showing extraordinary kindness to Ruth, a widow and a foreigner.
Boaz’s role as a kinsman-redeemer foreshadows the redemption found in Jesus Christ. Just as Boaz provided for and protected Ruth, Christ redeems and restores all who put their faith in Him. The story of Ruth shows God’s providence working through ordinary acts of loyalty and kindness, even during a time of national decline.
Application
Faithfulness and loyalty: Ruth’s devotion to Naomi is an example of honoring family, even in difficult circumstances.
Trust in God’s provision: Ruth trusted that God would provide, and He led her to Boaz’s field. We can trust Him to care for us as well.
Compassion and generosity: Boaz’s kindness challenges us to help the marginalized and vulnerable, reflecting God’s love.
The ultimate redeemer: Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, Jesus redeems us from sin and offers eternal salvation.
Reflection
Ruth’s response to Boaz’s invitation was immediate and obedient. She stayed close to his workers until the harvest was complete, not just for a day. This teaches us to remain faithful in the place God has assigned, trusting in His provision over the long term.
Ruth also shared the good news with Naomi, showing the value of community and mutual encouragement. When we experience God’s kindness, we should tell others and build one another up. The verse reminds us that God’s redemptive plan extends to all people, regardless of background or circumstances. Boaz’s care for Ruth, a Moabite widow, shows that God’s grace reaches the outsider and welcomes them into His provision.
