Overview
Ruth 3 presents a turning point in the story of Ruth and Boaz, featuring Naomi’s strategic plan for Ruth’s future and Ruth’s daring proposal to Boaz at the threshing floor. This chapter explores themes of loyalty, risk-taking, and adherence to cultural customs in Israel. Key elements include:
Naomi’s Plan for Ruth: Naomi, recognizing Boaz as a potential redeemer, devises a plan for Ruth to secure her future. She instructs Ruth to wash, put on her best clothes, and go to the threshing floor where Boaz will be winnowing barley.
Ruth at the Threshing Floor: Ruth follows Naomi’s instructions and goes to the threshing floor. After Boaz has eaten and drunk and lies down, she quietly uncovers his feet and lies down.
Boaz’s Discovery and Response: At midnight, Boaz awakes startled to find a woman at his feet. Ruth identifies herself and asks Boaz to spread his cloak over her, symbolizing his role as a redeemer.
Boaz’s Praise and Promise: Boaz praises Ruth for her kindness and loyalty, noting that she has not pursued younger men. He acknowledges his role as a redeemer but mentions there is another relative who has a closer claim.
Boaz’s Gift to Ruth: Boaz sends Ruth back to Naomi with six measures of barley as a token of his promise to resolve the matter of redemption.
Ruth’s Return to Naomi: Ruth returns to Naomi and recounts all that happened. Naomi advises her to wait, confident that Boaz will not rest until he has settled the matter.
Ruth 3 is a chapter marked by bold actions and deep faith in cultural customs and laws. Ruth’s proposal to Boaz is a significant step in their relationship, rooted in the concept of the kinsman-redeemer, a relative who could provide for a widowed woman. This chapter highlights Ruth's courage and Boaz's integrity, setting the stage for the resolution of their story.