RUTH THE GLEANER 1. Boaz] ('quickness') was a kinsman of Elimelech's. We are not informed of the precise degree of relationship. Here and at Ruth 3:2 he is designated an 'acquaintance.' It is by no means certain that we are to think of him as a mighty man of wealth'; the phrase here employed someti... [ Continue Reading ]
Ruth's good qualities appear at every turn: she was careful to ask leave; she worked steadily all through the long, weary day, not resting during its hottest hours. The last words of this verse are now corrupt: the original statement was 'she has not rested at all,' or 'she has not been home at all'... [ Continue Reading ]
With joyful surprise she exclaims, LET ME FIND FAVOUR IN THY SIGHT! or, rather, 'I find grace in thy sight!' There is something very beautiful in the literal meaning of the words rendered 'Thou hast spoken friendly': it is 'Thou hast spoken to the heart' (Isaiah 40:2; Jeremiah 19:3): the words are s... [ Continue Reading ]
Vinegar and water was the customary drink of Roman soldiers and slaves. The harvesters in Palestine still dip their bread in vinegar and find it very refreshing. Parched corn is also a favourite article of food: the ears are gathered when not quite ripe, and are roasted on an iron plate, or are thru... [ Continue Reading ]