Old Testament
Ruth 2:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When it was time to eat, Boaz told her, "Come over here. Have some bread and dip it in the wine vinegar." She sat down with the harvesters, and Boaz handed her roasted grain. She ate until she was full and still had some left over.
Compare translations
And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left.
What Ruth 2:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Boaz invites Ruth to join him and the harvesters for a meal. He offers her bread and wine vinegar, a common accompaniment in that culture. Ruth sits with the workers, and Boaz gives her roasted grain, which she eats until she is satisfied, even having leftovers. This moment highlights Boaz's kindness and generosity towards Ruth, a foreigner and widow. It also signifies her acceptance into the community of Israel, as she shares a meal with the harvesters. The act of eating together symbolizes fellowship and care, showing that Ruth is not just a gleaner but is being treated with dignity and respect. This interaction sets the stage for the developing relationship between Boaz and Ruth, emphasizing themes of provision, kindness, and the importance of community support during difficult times.
How to apply Ruth 2:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to show kindness and generosity to those in need, just as Boaz did for Ruth. It reminds us of the importance of community and sharing meals, fostering relationships, and supporting one another during challenging times.
Curated for this public verse page. Ruth Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Gleaning in the Field of Boaz (Ruth 2:1–16)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ruth 2:14
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ruth 2:14
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Ruth
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ruth 2:14 teach about hospitality?
Ruth 2:14 illustrates the importance of hospitality through Boaz's invitation to Ruth. By inviting her to eat with him and the harvesters, Boaz demonstrates kindness and generosity, showing that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity. This act of sharing a meal signifies acceptance and community, reminding us to extend hospitality to those around us, especially those who may feel marginalized or in need.
How does Ruth's experience in Ruth 2:14 reflect community support?
In Ruth 2:14, Ruth's invitation to dine with Boaz and the harvesters highlights the significance of community support. By sharing a meal, she is not only provided for but also welcomed into the community of Israel. This moment emphasizes the role of communal relationships in providing emotional and physical sustenance, encouraging us to support one another during difficult times and foster a sense of belonging.
What is the significance of Boaz giving Ruth roasted grain?
Boaz giving Ruth roasted grain in Ruth 2:14 signifies his generosity and care for her well-being. It goes beyond mere provision; it shows his respect for Ruth as a person and his willingness to help her during her time of need. This act also foreshadows the developing relationship between Boaz and Ruth, highlighting themes of kindness and the importance of looking out for others in our communities.
What can we learn about kindness from Ruth 2:14?
Ruth 2:14 teaches us that kindness can have a profound impact on others. Boaz's actions towards Ruth, a foreign widow, exemplify how small acts of generosity can uplift those who are struggling. This verse encourages us to be mindful of those around us and to actively seek opportunities to show kindness, reinforcing the idea that our actions can foster hope and connection in our communities.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.