צְבָתִים (tse.vet)
tse.vet
bundle
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew word tsevet refers specifically to bundles of grain, appearing only once in the Old Testament at Ruth 2:16. In this context, Boaz instructs his workers to pull handfuls of barley from the sheaves and leave them for Ruth to gather. The term describes these small, gathered bunches rather than the larger, processed sheaves stored in the barn.
This specific detail highlights the tangible nature of God’s provision through human kindness. By leaving behind tsevetim, Boaz ensures that Ruth has enough food for her immediate needs without requiring her to complete the full harvest labor. The word anchors the narrative in physical reality, showing how generosity can be measured in simple, everyday acts of leaving resources for others to find.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word tsevetim describes small bundles of grain left behind for the poor to gather. In Ruth’s story, Boaz does not merely tolerate her presence; he actively directs his workers to pull handfuls from the sheaves and leave them on the ground. This act transforms a legal right into a tangible gift, ensuring Ruth has enough food without having to endure the full burden of the harvest.
God often provides through such simple, human kindnesses. You may not always see the grand miracles, but you can trust that He arranges small provisions for your daily needs. These quiet acts of generosity remind us that care is measured in concrete steps—leaving space for others to find what they need.
When you feel overwhelmed by lack, remember this scene. God sees your effort and provides through the hands of those around you. May you find peace in knowing that your needs are known and met in ways both visible and hidden.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ bundles of grain1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/צְּבָתִ֑ים1×
Key Verses
-
Ruth 2:16
Also pull out some for her from the bundles, and leave it. Let her glean, and don’t rebuke her.”
This verse shows Boaz actively instructing his workers to leave specific bundles for Ruth, turning a general permission to glean into a deliberate act of provision.