What can companies learn from the Old Testament practice of gleaning?

Corporate Responsibility is a hot topic right now with the restatement of the business roundtable definition of a corporation. From familiar CSR programs like education, health, and other community initiatives, the term has evolved into different movements like social enterprise and impact investing. What many people don’t realize is that the Bible offers a glimpse into how to do it well in Book of Ruth. We really enjoyed how Christianity Today’s article, “The Book of Ruth Can Transform the Way We Do Business Today” approaches the topic. Within the article, they give many great examples of companies and policies for us to learn how to practice the philosophy of gleaning.

Gleaning, the Old Testament practice whereby farmers left an unharvested margin around their fields and the poor came and picked from it, was at the heart of the Book of Ruth. Was gleaning only an ancient agricultural regulation, Stumberg wondered, or did it also apply to how he should steward a modern-day tech business?

“I was contextualizing what Boaz did,” said Stumberg, who sees God as the ultimate owner of his business and its office space. “The story of Boaz helped me name something the Lord was moving in my heart.” …

Please click here to read the whole article on Christianity Today. ENJOY!

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[Special thanks to Katrin Rodegast & CT for the cover art]