“While she was there, Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters. “The Lord be with you!” he said. “The Lord bless you!” the harvesters replied. Then Boaz asked his foreman, “Who is that young woman over there? Who does she belong to?” And the foreman replied, “She is the young woman from Moab who came back with Naomi. She asked me this morning if she could gather grain behind the harvesters. She has been hard at work ever since, except for a few minutes’ rest in the shelter.” Boaz went over and said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Stay right here with us when you gather grain; don’t go to any other fields. Stay right behind the young women working in my field. See which part of the field they are harvesting, and then follow them. I have warned the young men not to treat you roughly. And when you are thirsty, help yourself to the water they have drawn from the well.””
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Ruth‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬-‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

For many, doing a menial task, such as field work, is meant for migrants and the lower class. This is an inference rather than an express truth. For Ruth, it was a loophole in Jewish customs that specifically placed her in the realm of the poor and destitute. Some were to be left behind by the workers so that the poor could glean what was left. For Ruth to take this position was humbling by nature. The scripture had prescribed this for landowners because many did not care for people over their product. In a mostly agrarian culture, this was a good way to provide a basic need for the lowest of society. The fact that Boaz adhered to this practice displayed that he was a godly man. The fact that he recognized Ruth and encouraged her gleaning displays how it wasn’t just a practice but it was from a godly heart. Ruth wouldn’t have met Boaz or been blessed by his generosity if she hadn’t been willing to humble herself and show herself to be in need. That is an important lesson for believers in need. First, they will always be there, but God kingdom should look for ways to bless those who are humble. It should be generous with its own blessings, while those in need glean the fields of the kingdom respectfully with humility.

Social Hierarchy and Gleaning: In Jewish customs, gleaning was a practice where landowners left some of their harvest for the poor, highlighting the social hierarchy and the importance of providing for the needy.

Boaz’s Character: Boaz’s adherence to the practice of gleaning and his recognition of Ruth demonstrate his godly character and compassion for the poor.

Lesson for Believers: The story of Ruth and Boaz teaches believers the importance of humility and seeking God’s blessings respectfully, while also emphasizing the responsibility of the community to bless those in need.