Ruth 2 13

Ruth 2:13 kjv

Then she said, Let me find favor in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens.

Ruth 2:13 nkjv

Then she said, "Let me find favor in your sight, my lord; for you have comforted me, and have spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your maidservants."

Ruth 2:13 niv

"May I continue to find favor in your eyes, my lord," she said. "You have put me at ease by speaking kindly to your servant?though I do not have the standing of one of your servants."

Ruth 2:13 esv

Then she said, "I have found favor in your eyes, my lord, for you have comforted me and spoken kindly to your servant, though I am not one of your servants."

Ruth 2:13 nlt

"I hope I continue to please you, sir," she replied. "You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me, even though I am not one of your workers."

Ruth 2 verses

Ruth 2 13 Meaning

Ruth 2:13 expresses Ruth's profound humility and gratitude in response to Boaz's unexpected kindness and protective words. Despite her foreign, Moabite origin and lowly status as a poor widow, Boaz extended significant favor and comfort, which she recognizes and acknowledges as unmerited. Her words convey a deep appreciation for his considerate speech and actions, perceiving them as more comforting than what her servant status might merit.

Ruth 2 13 Context

Ruth 2:13 occurs in the fields of Bethlehem where Ruth, a Moabite widow, is gleaning to provide for herself and Naomi. The chapter details her initial encounter with Boaz, a wealthy kinsman of Naomi’s late husband, Elimelech. Having heard of Ruth's loyal devotion to Naomi and her seeking refuge under the God of Israel, Boaz instructs his reapers to treat her well, to allow her to glean abundantly, and even provides her with water and a meal. Before verse 13, Boaz explicitly blessed Ruth for taking refuge under the Lord's wings (v.12). Ruth 2:13 is Ruth's deeply felt, humble, and appreciative response to this unexpected kindness and protection from Boaz, a reflection of the significant cultural emphasis on hospitality, kindness, and provision for the vulnerable, particularly widows and sojourners, within Israelite society.

Ruth 2 13 Word analysis

• Then she said: Signifies Ruth's immediate and heartfelt verbal response, reflecting her character of humility and appreciation.

• May I find favor: From Hebrew chen (חֵן), meaning grace, favor, charm, acceptance. It's a common phrase used when a lesser individual addresses a superior, or when seeking compassion or help. Here, it underscores Ruth's request for continued kindness and acknowledgment of Boaz's authority.

• in your eyes: A common Semitic idiom meaning "in your sight" or "in your estimation/acceptance." It signifies that the favor is acknowledged and visible to the recipient.

• my lord: From Hebrew adoni (אֲדֹנִי). A respectful term of address used for a superior, employer, or esteemed individual, acknowledging their status and authority without implying divinity. Ruth correctly identifies Boaz's societal standing.

• for you have comforted me: From Hebrew nicham (נִחַם), meaning to console, comfort, or pity. This highlights the profound impact of Boaz's words and actions on Ruth, bringing solace to her vulnerable and distressed state as a foreigner and a widow.

• and spoken kindly: Hebrew diber 'al-lev (דִּבֶּר עַל־לֵב). Literally "spoken to the heart." This is a significant Hebrew idiom, much stronger than simply "speaking kindly." It means to speak tenderly, soothingly, reassuringly, and compassionately in a way that truly comforts and encourages the inner person. It indicates words that deeply resonated and healed her anxieties.

• to your servant: From Hebrew amah (אֲמָה), a female servant or handmaid. Ruth repeatedly refers to herself in this humble manner, acknowledging her low status relative to Boaz.

• though I am not one of your servant girls: This clause amplifies her humility and appreciation. She is an outsider, a Moabite, with no intrinsic claim to Boaz's household or generosity. Yet, he has treated her better than even his own paid workers, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of his kindness and grace toward her.

• "May I find favor in your eyes, my lord": This is a respectful and humble plea. It's not a demand but a desire for his continued goodwill, acknowledging his authority and power to grant it. It sets the tone for their relationship.

• "for you have comforted me and spoken kindly": This phrase clearly articulates the reasons for her gratitude. It connects Boaz's actions directly to her well-being, specifically highlighting the power of his words, which provided deep emotional and practical solace. The specific idiom "spoken to the heart" conveys that his kindness was not just superficial but genuinely restorative.

• "to your servant, though I am not one of your servant girls": This grouping emphasizes Ruth's deep awareness of her inferior status as a foreigner and gleaner, not an actual employed member of Boaz's household. It heightens the significance of his exceptional treatment, which exceeded any social or contractual obligation.

Ruth 2 13 Bonus section

• Ruth's response demonstrates spiritual discernment; she perceives Boaz's actions as a manifestation of divine care. Her finding favor with Boaz is a direct human outworking of the "favor" she sought under the wings of the Lord in verse 12.
• The emphasis on "comfort" and "spoken kindly to your servant" foreshadows a deeper connection, hinting at more than just a typical employer-employee relationship. It's the language of nascent affection and care, establishing the emotional groundwork for the future kinsman-redeemer role.
• Ruth's self-abasement, combined with her steadfast character, highlights the biblical principle that humility precedes honor and favor, a theme echoed throughout Scripture (e.g., Jas 4:6, 1 Pet 5:5).
• This verse subtly reinforces the sovereignty of God; Boaz, acting out of generosity and piety, is an instrument through whom the Lord extends protection and provision to Ruth, an individual who had previously taken refuge "under His wings."

Ruth 2 13 Commentary

Ruth 2:13 is a powerful expression of sincere gratitude, humility, and astuteness from Ruth. It showcases her admirable character, contrasting with typical narratives of distress and entitlement often seen in vulnerable positions. Her appreciation stems not merely from physical provision, but deeply from the comforting and heartening words of Boaz ("spoken to her heart"). This highlights the immense value of gracious words, demonstrating how verbal affirmation and dignity can uplift and comfort the downtrodden. Boaz’s actions, prompted by God’s Spirit and aligning with the principles of the Law, serve as a testament to practical righteousness, revealing God's care through human agents. Ruth, in turn, acknowledges that his kindness far exceeds what her status warrants, reflecting the profound concept of unmerited grace. This exchange solidifies the blossoming relationship between Ruth and Boaz, laying further groundwork for God's providential plan in their lives and the lineage of Christ.