The answer is: 1 ephah of barley

Ruth 2:17

Ruth's first day of gleaning in Boaz's fields was nothing short of extraordinary! To put the 1 ephah of barley into perspective, that’s almost 6 gallons, or roughly 22 liters, of grain. Picture Ruth, a Moabite widow, bravely stepping into a new land under the watchful eye of a generous landowner. Ruth's story exemplifies resilience and the hard work of an outsider defying cultural norms to support herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi.

Interestingly enough, the ancient practice of gleaning underscores real compassion embedded in the Hebrew Scriptures, pointing to a societal rule where landowners would leave behind the edges of their fields for the poor and needy. In Leviticus 19:9–10, it’s suggested that farmers should not completely harvest their fields so that the less fortunate can partake. This legislative piece not only promoted social justice but also illustrates the emphasis on community support, which is integral across various cultural shades scattered throughout the Bible.

Moreover, Ruth's gleaning speaks volumes about her character and loyal commitment to Naomi. This echoes themes of care and support found in various biblical figures who prioritize family and community over personal gain. It's fascinating how showing kindness in a world where they could easily have been cast as outsiders sets the stage for Ruth being in the genealogy of David and, by extension, of the lineage of Jesus. Through her actions, Ruth wonderfully bridges stories from adversity to abundant blessing!