Ruth 3

In Ruth 3, Naomi devises a plan for Ruth to approach Boaz, seeking marriage according to the custom of the kinsman-redeemer. Ruth follows Naomi’s instructions, placing herself at Boaz’s feet at night, a sign of submission and a request for protection. This chapter demonstrates themes of loyalty, faithfulness, and providence, as Boaz responds with honor and kindness, furthering the hope for redemption and security for Ruth and Naomi.

Ruth 3:1 (NKJV)
Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, "My daughter, shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you?"

Naomi expresses concern for Ruth’s future, seeking to secure a stable and prosperous life for her. Naomi feels responsible for Ruth’s well-being, especially after Ruth’s faithfulness in supporting her. "Security" here refers to the hope of a lasting marriage, which would provide Ruth with both protection and provision, particularly in the context of a widow’s vulnerable situation in ancient Israel.

Ruth 3:2 (NKJV)
"Now Boaz, whose young women you were with, is he not our relative? In fact, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor."

Naomi points out Boaz, who is a close relative and potential kinsman-redeemer. The reference to him winnowing barley indicates that it is harvest time, providing an opportunity for Ruth to approach him discreetly. Naomi’s mention of Boaz being their relative underscores the cultural practice of the kinsman-redeemer, a role in which Boaz could restore and provide for their family by marrying Ruth.

Ruth 3:3-4 (NKJV)
"Therefore wash yourself and anoint yourself, put on your best garment and go down to the threshing floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking.
Then it shall be, when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies; and you shall go in, uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do."

Naomi advises Ruth to prepare herself by washing and anointing, signifying her readiness for marriage. She is to approach Boaz quietly at night and uncover his feet, a symbolic gesture of submission and humility, indicating that she seeks his protection as a kinsman-redeemer. This action is not improper but is culturally appropriate, and Naomi trusts that Boaz will instruct Ruth on the next steps.

Ruth 3:5 (NKJV)
And she said to her, "All that you say to me I will do."

Ruth’s response shows her continued loyalty and trust in Naomi’s guidance. Her willingness to follow Naomi’s plan demonstrates her character of obedience and faith, trusting that Naomi’s instructions are for her good. Ruth’s faithfulness is key in moving forward with this culturally sensitive plan.

Ruth 3:6-7 (NKJV)
So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law instructed her.
And after Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was cheerful, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down.

Ruth faithfully carries out Naomi’s instructions, going to the threshing floor and waiting until Boaz had eaten and was in good spirits. The threshing floor was a place where the harvest was processed, and Boaz would sleep there to protect his grain. Ruth’s quiet approach and the uncovering of his feet represent her request for Boaz’s protection and provision, following the customs of the time.

Ruth 3:8-9 (NKJV)
Now it happened at midnight that the man was startled, and turned himself; and there, a woman was lying at his feet.
And he said, "Who are you?"
So she answered, "I am Ruth, your maidservant. Take your maidservant under your wing, for you are a close relative."

Boaz wakes up surprised to find someone at his feet. Ruth identifies herself and humbly refers to herself as his maidservant, a term of submission. Her request for Boaz to "take her under his wing" is a plea for him to act as her kinsman-redeemer, offering her protection and security in marriage. Ruth’s appeal emphasizes her vulnerability and Boaz’s potential role in her redemption.

Ruth 3:10-11 (NKJV)
Then he said, "Blessed are you of the Lord, my daughter! For you have shown more kindness at the end than at the beginning, in that you did not go after young men, whether poor or rich.
And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you request, for all the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman."

Boaz praises Ruth for her loyalty, noting that she did not seek younger men but instead showed kindness and honor in choosing him as her kinsman-redeemer. Boaz acknowledges Ruth’s virtuous character, recognizing that her actions reflect her faithfulness to both Naomi and God. His promise to do all that she asks demonstrates his willingness to fulfill his role as her protector and redeemer.

Ruth 3:12-13 (NKJV)
"Now it is true that I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than I.
Stay this night, and in the morning it shall be that if he will perform the duty of a close relative for you—good; let him do it. But if he does not want to perform the duty for you, then I will perform the duty for you, as the Lord lives! Lie down until morning."

Boaz acknowledges that while he is a close relative, there is someone with a stronger claim as kinsman-redeemer. However, he assures Ruth that if this relative does not fulfill the role, he will take responsibility. Boaz’s honorable approach highlights his respect for the law and his willingness to ensure Ruth’s future security. His vow "as the Lord lives" emphasizes the seriousness of his commitment.

Ruth 3:14 (NKJV)
So she lay at his feet until morning, and she arose before one could recognize another. Then he said, "Do not let it be known that the woman came to the threshing floor."

Ruth remains at Boaz’s feet through the night, a sign of her trust in his protection and his intentions. Before dawn, she leaves discreetly to avoid any misunderstanding or gossip, as Boaz is careful to protect her reputation. This reflects Boaz’s concern for Ruth’s honor and his commitment to handling the situation with integrity.

Ruth 3:15 (NKJV)
Also he said, "Bring the shawl that is on you and hold it." And when she held it, he measured six ephahs of barley, and laid it on her. Then she went into the city.

Before Ruth leaves, Boaz gives her a generous amount of barley, symbolizing his provision for her and Naomi. This gift serves both as a token of Boaz’s good intentions and a practical way of supporting the two widows. Ruth returns to the city with tangible evidence of Boaz’s care, reinforcing the hope of future redemption.

Ruth 3:16-18 (NKJV)
When she came to her mother-in-law, she said, "Is that you, my daughter?"
Then she told her all that the man had done for her.
And she said, "These six ephahs of barley he gave me; for he said to me, ‘Do not go empty-handed to your mother-in-law.’"
Then she said, "Sit still, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out; for the man will not rest until he has concluded the matter this day."

Ruth recounts the events to Naomi, including Boaz’s kindness in providing the barley. Naomi recognizes the significance of Boaz’s actions and assures Ruth that he will not delay in resolving the matter. Naomi’s confidence in Boaz reflects her understanding of his character and his commitment to fulfilling the duty of a kinsman-redeemer.