Old Testament
Ruth 2:21
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Ruth the Moabitess continued, "He also told me, 'Stay close to my young men until they have finished all my harvest.'"
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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.
What Ruth 2:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Ruth shares with her mother-in-law Naomi what Boaz, the landowner, instructed her. Boaz has shown kindness to Ruth, a foreigner, by allowing her to glean in his fields. He advises her to stay close to his young men during the harvest, ensuring her safety and providing her with ample opportunity to gather food. This instruction reflects Boaz's protective nature and his respect for Ruth, acknowledging her hard work and vulnerability as a widow. By staying close to the young men, Ruth can benefit from their labor and the harvest, which is crucial for her and Naomi's survival. This moment highlights the themes of kindness, protection, and the importance of community support during difficult times. Ruth's obedience to Boaz's guidance also sets the stage for future developments in her relationship with him, emphasizing the significance of trust and loyalty in their interactions.
How to apply Ruth 2:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek guidance and support from those who care for us, especially during challenging times. It reminds us of the importance of being part of a community where we can find safety and assistance. Trusting in the kindness of others can lead to unexpected blessings.
Curated for this public verse page. Ruth Summary
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Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: “The Man Is Near of Kin” (Ruth 2:17–23)
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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.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Ruth 2:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 2:21 teach about community support?
Ruth 2:21 emphasizes the importance of community support during difficult times. By staying close to Boaz's young men, Ruth not only ensures her safety but also gains access to the resources she needs to survive. This reflects how being part of a supportive community can provide assistance and protection, especially for those who are vulnerable.
How does Boaz show kindness to Ruth in this verse?
In Ruth 2:21, Boaz shows kindness to Ruth by allowing her to glean in his fields and instructing her to stay close to his young men. This guidance is a protective measure, ensuring she is safe while working and has ample opportunity to gather food. His actions demonstrate respect for Ruth's hard work and vulnerability as a widow.
What is the significance of Ruth's obedience to Boaz's instructions?
Ruth's obedience to Boaz's instructions in Ruth 2:21 is significant as it highlights her trust in his guidance and her willingness to follow his advice for her safety and well-being. This obedience not only helps her gather food but also lays the groundwork for a deeper relationship with Boaz, showcasing themes of loyalty and trust in their interactions.
How does Ruth 2:21 relate to the themes of trust and loyalty?
Ruth 2:21 illustrates trust and loyalty through Ruth's decision to follow Boaz's instructions. By staying close to his young men, she demonstrates her trust in Boaz's protective nature and his intentions. This act of loyalty not only secures her immediate needs but also sets the stage for future developments in her relationship with Boaz, reinforcing the importance of these themes.
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