21 Now Naomi had a relative on her husband's side, a man of standing from the clan of Elimelek, whose name was Boaz.
21 And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz.
21 Now Naomi had a relative of her husband's, a worthy man of the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz.
21 It so happened that Naomi had a relative by marriage, a man prominent and rich, connected with Elimelech's family. His name was Boaz.
21 There was a relative of Naomi's husband, a man of great wealth, of the family of Elimelech. His name was Boaz.
21 Now there was a wealthy and influential man in Bethlehem named Boaz, who was a relative of Naomi's husband, Elimelech.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ruth 2:1
Commentary on Ruth 2:1-3
(Read Ruth 2:1-3)
Observe Ruth's humility. When Providence had made her poor, she cheerfully stoops to her lot. High spirits will rather starve than stoop; not so Ruth. Nay, it is her own proposal. She speaks humbly in her expectation of leave to glean. We may not demand kindness as a debt, but ask, and take it as a favour, though in a small matter. Ruth also was an example of industry. She loved not to eat the bread of idleness. This is an example to young people. Diligence promises well, both for this world and the other. We must not be shy of any honest employment. No labour is a reproach. Sin is a thing below us, but we must not think any thing else so, to which Providence call us. She was an example of regard to her mother, and of trust in Providence. God wisely orders what seem to us small events; and those that appear altogether uncertain, still are directed to serve his own glory, and the good of his people.