In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, Samwise Gamgee demonstrates uncommon devotion to his friend Frodo. Sam sticks by Frodo through their arduous journey, and when his friend is too weak to finish, Samwise carries him up Mount Doom, iconically declaring: “I can’t carry it [the ring] for you, but I can carry you!”
In the book of Ruth, Boaz showed extraordinary care for the young foreign woman who providentially appeared in his fields. In verse 8, Boaz broke his conversation with the foreman and addressed Ruth for the first time—as “daughter,” which was beautifully significant. Despite her foreign status, he saw her as kin.
Some commentators believe that something happened to Ruth during her “rest in the shelter” (v. 7). The harvesters had possibly approached her in an unwelcome way, which drove her to leave. Boaz had to tell her twice not to go (v. 8). He instructed her to stay with his servant girls. The Hebrew word for “stay” is also used in Ruth 1:14 when Ruth was “clinging to” Naomi. It describes joining together in a continuing relationship.
Boaz then laid out a plan for Ruth’s ongoing care, offering her extraordinary access to the fields. She was to stick close to the other young women for camaraderie and protection. Boaz warned his workers to leave her alone and gave her special permission to drink water the men had drawn (v. 9).
Ruth was overwhelmed by his generosity. She bowed in humble gratitude and asked him why she should enjoy such favor. Boaz responded with glowing admiration. He had heard of Ruth’s sacrificial loyalty to Naomi, her act of hesed. He asked that Yahweh would repay and reward her kindness. He painted a powerful picture of the Lord’s ultimate protection over Ruth. Under God’s wing she would find refuge (vv. 11–12).
Go Deeper
How have others cared for you in your time of need? How have you extended care to others?
Pray with Us
Lord, You are our refuge. Thank You for providing us with care and comfort in Your great love. We praise You for giving us people that care for our needs. Help us do the same in response.
May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.Ruth 2:12
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