Old Testament
Ruth 2:22
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Naomi said to her daughter-in-law Ruth, "It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young women, so they do not meet you in another field."
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And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field.
What Ruth 2:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Naomi advises Ruth to stay close to the young women working in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi's late husband. Naomi's guidance is rooted in the cultural context of the time, where women were often vulnerable when gleaning in fields. By encouraging Ruth to associate with Boaz's maidens, Naomi is ensuring Ruth's safety and increasing her chances of finding favor with Boaz. This advice reflects Naomi's protective instincts as a mother-in-law and her desire for Ruth to be well cared for. It also highlights the importance of community and support among women, especially in challenging circumstances. Ruth's willingness to heed Naomi's advice demonstrates her loyalty and respect for her mother-in-law, which is a central theme in the story of Ruth. This moment sets the stage for Ruth's eventual relationship with Boaz, which is pivotal for both her future and Naomi's well-being.
How to apply Ruth 2:22 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of seeking wise counsel from those who care about us. Just as Ruth listened to Naomi, we should be open to advice from trusted mentors. Staying connected with supportive communities can help us navigate challenges safely and effectively.
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 2:22
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 2:22 teach about community support?
Ruth 2:22 emphasizes the importance of community support, particularly among women. Naomi advises Ruth to stay close to Boaz's young women to ensure her safety and well-being while gleaning in the fields. This highlights how surrounding ourselves with supportive individuals can provide protection and enhance our chances of success in difficult situations.
Why did Naomi want Ruth to stay with Boaz's maidens?
Naomi wanted Ruth to stay with Boaz's maidens to protect her from potential harm and to increase her chances of gaining favor with Boaz. In the cultural context of the time, women were vulnerable while gleaning in fields, so Naomi's advice reflects her protective instincts and desire for Ruth's safety and future security.
How does Ruth's obedience to Naomi reflect their relationship?
Ruth's obedience to Naomi in Ruth 2:22 demonstrates her loyalty and respect for her mother-in-law. This relationship is central to the story, showcasing the bond between them and Ruth's commitment to Naomi's well-being. Ruth's willingness to heed Naomi's advice also illustrates the theme of familial loyalty and the importance of guidance in navigating life's challenges.
What cultural context is important for understanding Ruth 2:22?
Understanding the cultural context of Ruth 2:22 is crucial, as it highlights the vulnerabilities women faced during that time, especially when gleaning in fields. Naomi's advice to Ruth reflects the societal norms and dangers of the era, emphasizing the need for women to stay together for safety and support, which was vital for their survival and well-being.
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