Bible Dictionary
Gleaning
Gleaning was the practice of collecting produce left in fields and vineyards after harvesting. Israel’s law reserved part of the harvest for the poor, a practice illustrated by Ruth’s work in Boaz’s field.
Biblical Usage
Gleaning is especially illustrated by Ruth’s work in Boaz’s field. Israelite law required harvest remnants to be left for the poor, and Scripture also uses gleaning as an image of thorough destruction or of the small remainder after a conquest.