Ruth 2:17

Authorized King James Version

So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לִקֵּ֔טָה

H3950

So she gleaned

properly, to pick up, i.e., (generally) to gather; specifically, to glean

בַּשָּׂדֶ֖ה

H7704

in the field

a field (as flat)

עַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

הָעָ֑רֶב

H6153

until even

dusk

וַתַּחְבֹּט֙

H2251

and beat out

to knock out or off

אֵ֣ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

אֲשֶׁר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

לִקֵּ֔טָה

H3950

So she gleaned

properly, to pick up, i.e., (generally) to gather; specifically, to glean

וַיְהִ֖י

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#10

כְּאֵיפָ֥ה

H374

and it was about an ephah

an ephah or measure for grain; hence, a measure in general

#11

שְׂעֹרִֽים׃

H8184

of barley

barley (as villose)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ruth. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ruth Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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