When an author presents a character, it can be done directly or indirectly. With direct characterization the author tells the audience what the character looks or acts like. With indirect characterization the author shows the audience what a character is like through dialogue and actions.

In chapter 2, we learn more about Boaz and Ruth. Verse 4 begins with the little transitional phrase “just then.” In the Hebrew, it carries a greater connotation than just timing. It denotes the suddenness and coordination that only the providential hand of God could orchestrate. God can work in an instant!

As soon as Boaz arrived, he greeted his workers with a blessing from God, and they called back the same to him (v. 4). This seemingly simple exchange says volumes about the sort of landowner and boss Boaz had been. He had clearly created a positive and respectful work environment, where he was in close communication with his harvesters, and God was revered. Immediately, Boaz noticed an unknown young woman in his field, and he asked his foreman to identify her. Ruth is again identified by her nationality—Moabite—and by her connection to Naomi, a widow (v. 6). These facts also qualified her to reap in the fields.

Then, the foreman described Ruth’s actions, also revealing a great deal about her character (v. 7). She had asked permission to glean behind the reapers, which was a respectful gesture, not required by the Law. Ruth had worked hard all day, “except for a short rest in the shelter.” The meaning of this final phrase is difficult to interpret. Given the entire context, some commentators believe that during this rest some other workers had accosted Ruth. We will explore this possibility in the coming days.

Donate to Today in the Word: https://give.todayintheword.org/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a new character enters a story, the author must decide what information to share. Excessive back story could detract from the overall narrative. But sharing too little could leave the audience confused. Strategic details are needed, so the new character fits effectively into the plot.

In Ruth chapter 2, another key character, Boaz, is introduced with important descriptors. First, he is described in relationship to Naomi as “a relative on her husband’s side.” Then, it is emphasized that he was “from the clan of Elimelek.” In ancient Israel, the “clan” was the most important grouping in the social structure, and this relationship will become necessary for him to function as a guardian-redeemer. In addition, this new character was “a man of standing” (v. 1). This phrase denotes strength, capability, and wealth. He is a man of status and character: Boaz.

Suddenly, the scene shifts back to the women (v. 2). Ruth is again described as a Moabitess. The author continues to remind his audience of her foreign, vulnerable state. Ruth asked Naomi for permission to go into the fields and glean. Although the Law allowed the poor, aliens, widows, and orphans to do this, they were not always accommodated in reality. Hence, Ruth hoped to glean in the fields of someone who would benevolently allow it (v. 2).

It is interesting that Ruth took the initiative. Naomi was likely still absorbed in her bitterness since she gave only a simple approval. So, Ruth went out to glean. In the Hebrew, the phrase “as it turned out” literally means “her chance chanced” (v. 3). Both the noun and the verb, forms of the same word, are used to communicate that the opposite of “chance” is at work. Rather, a sovereign God was directing the lives of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz in His gracious providence

Donate to Today in the Word: https://give.todayintheword.org/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In his book Inexpressible, Michael Card writes, “In the Hebrew mind hesed is always something you do. It is a verb…It is a resonant response to the overwhelming kindness of the God of Exodus 34, who is full of hesed.”

Today, we pause our study of Ruth to look at a striking declaration of the hesed love of God. In Exodus, Moses had communed with the Lord for forty days on Mount Sinai (chapters 16–33). During that time, God gave Moses the Ten Commandments and instructions for construction of the tabernacle. While Moses was gone, however, the Israelites grew impatient. They doubted Moses would return, so they begged his brother Aaron to make a golden calf for them to worship (32:1). When Moses returned and saw their idolatry, he broke the tablets into pieces (32:19). Moses confronted Aaron and called the people to repentance. Then, he pled with the Lord on the people’s behalf. God called the people “stiff-necked” and struck them with a plague. But eventually, the people mourned (33:4) and worshiped (33:10). And God called Moses back to the mountain (34:1–2).

This was another private encounter between Moses and the Lord. Not even the animals would witness the exchange (34:3). And when the Lord descended in a cloud to meet Moses, He revealed more about His character—specifically His hesed compassion and grace, forgiveness and faithfulness. The people’s sin did not change His love.

Even so, the Lord explained, sin would be punished (34:7). When Moses asked for additional evidence of God’s presence, God promised to reveal His wonders and drive out their enemies (34:10–11). In return, He asked for their uncompromising devotion (34:11–14).

Donate to Today in the Word: https://give.todayintheword.org/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.