Ruth 2:17
So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley.
Original Language Analysis
לִקֵּ֔טָה
So she gleaned
H3950
לִקֵּ֔טָה
So she gleaned
Strong's:
H3950
Word #:
1 of 11
properly, to pick up, i.e., (generally) to gather; specifically, to glean
עַד
H5704
עַד
Strong's:
H5704
Word #:
3 of 11
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
אֵ֣ת
H853
אֵ֣ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
אֲשֶׁר
H834
אֲשֶׁר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
7 of 11
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
לִקֵּ֔טָה
So she gleaned
H3950
לִקֵּ֔טָה
So she gleaned
Strong's:
H3950
Word #:
8 of 11
properly, to pick up, i.e., (generally) to gather; specifically, to glean
וַיְהִ֖י
H1961
וַיְהִ֖י
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
9 of 11
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
Historical Context
An ephah of barley represents roughly 10 days worth of grain for one person, showing the abundance of Ruth's harvest. Archaeological studies of ancient gleaning practices suggest typical gleaners might gather only 1-2 kilograms daily—Ruth's harvest was many times normal, though she likely attributed it to hard work rather than Boaz's orchestration. The process of beating out grain separated kernels from chaff, requiring additional labor but necessary for the grain to be usable.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse illustrate God's providence working through human kindness and natural means?
- What does Ruth's hard work combined with Boaz's provision teach about the relationship between human effort and divine blessing?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Ruth's diligent labor produces results: 'So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley'. Working from morning until evening, Ruth gathered approximately an ephah (about 22 liters or half a bushel) of barley—an extraordinary amount for one day's gleaning, demonstrating both her industry and Boaz's secret generosity. Normally gleaners might gather only a fraction of this amount. The large quantity reveals how abundantly Boaz provided through his workers' deliberate dropping of grain, though Ruth doesn't yet realize the source of her blessing.