Ruth Chapter 3 — Ruth and Boaz at the Threshing Floor
Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor to seek security. Boaz agrees to act as her kinsman-redeemer if a closer relative declines.
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Notable Verses
Ruth 3:11
“Now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do to you all that you say; for all the city of my people knows that you are a worthy woman.”
This verse highlights Boaz's recognition of Ruth's exceptional character and his commitment to help her.
Ruth 3:13
“Stay this night, and in the morning, if he will perform for you the part of a kinsman, good. Let him do the kinsman’s duty. But if he will not do the duty of a kinsman for you, then I will do the duty of a kinsman for you, as the LORD lives.”
This establishes the legal framework of the story and Boaz's integrity in following traditional customs.
Chapter Summary
Naomi, seeking a permanent home for Ruth, instructs her daughter-in-law to approach Boaz at his threshing floor during the barley harvest. Ruth follows Naomi's instructions, waits for Boaz to finish eating, and lies down at his feet. When Boaz wakes up startled at midnight, Ruth identifies herself and asks him to spread his garment over her, a symbolic request for protection and marriage as a kinsman-redeemer. Boaz praises Ruth for her character, noting that the whole city knows she is a worthy woman. He expresses his willingness to marry her but explains that there is one relative closer than himself who has the first right of redemption. Boaz promises to resolve the legal matter the following morning. Before Ruth leaves, he gives her six measures of barley to take back to Naomi. Naomi advises Ruth to wait patiently, confident that Boaz will settle the matter immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Naomi wanted to find security for Ruth by arranging a marriage. She directed Ruth to approach Boaz, their kinsman, to request that he fulfill his role as a redeemer for their family.
Ruth's request for Boaz to spread his garment over her was a symbolic and formal request for protection and marriage. It invoked the concept of the kinsman-redeemer, a relative responsible for protecting the family's lineage.
According to Israelite law and custom, the closest male relative had the primary right and responsibility to redeem family land and marry the widow. Boaz acknowledged a relative closer than himself who had to be consulted first.
Study Note
The Hebrew word for the corner of the garment (kanaph) used in Ruth's request is the same word Boaz used in the previous chapter when describing God's wings of protection.
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