Free group study handout
Ruth 2: Group Study Handout
How to use: read Ruth 2 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
Naomi had a wealthy relative named Boaz (v. 1). Ruth the Moabitess asked Naomi for permission to glean in the fields (v.
Key verse
“Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Don’t go to glean in another field, and don’t go from here, but stay here close to my maidens.”
Ruth 2:8 (WEB)
Outline
- Ruth 2:1–3 Introduction of Boaz and Ruth's Initiative
- Ruth 2:4–7 Boaz Notices Ruth
- Ruth 2:8–12 Boaz Offers Protection and Favor
- Ruth 2:13–14 Ruth's Humble Response
- Ruth 2:15–18 Boaz Commands Generosity
- Ruth 2:19–20 Naomi's Recognition of Boaz
- Ruth 2:21–23 Ruth's Continued Gleaning
Discussion questions
- What act does Ruth request in v2, and who does she ask?
- What does Boaz say to his reapers in v4, and how do they respond?
- Why does Ruth, a foreigner, question Boaz's kindness in v10?
- What tensions arise from Boaz's actions toward Ruth in vv. 15-16?
- When have you found unexpected support or kindness, similar to Ruth in v14?
Go deeper
Passages that echo Ruth 2: Ruth 1, Ruth 3, Psalm 36.
Before next time: read Ruth 3.