Ruth 3:2

Now is not Boaz, with whose servant girls you have been working, a relative of ours? In fact, tonight he is winnowing barley on the threshing floor.

Study Bible

Now is not Boaz
The name "Boaz" in Hebrew means "strength" or "swift." Boaz is a significant figure in the Book of Ruth, representing a kinsman-redeemer, a concept deeply rooted in the Hebrew tradition. The kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: "goel") was responsible for protecting the interests of needy family members. This introduction to Boaz in the context of Ruth's account highlights his role as a potential redeemer, foreshadowing the redemptive work of Christ, who is our ultimate Redeemer.

with whose servant girls you have been working
This phrase emphasizes Ruth's diligence and humility. Ruth, a Moabite widow, has been working alongside Boaz's servant girls, gleaning in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi. The Hebrew culture placed great importance on community and family, and Ruth's willingness to work hard and integrate into the community reflects her virtuous character. Her actions align with the biblical principle of hard work and faithfulness, which God honors.

a relative of ours
The mention of Boaz as a relative introduces the concept of family loyalty and duty. In ancient Israel, family ties were crucial, and the law provided for the care of widows and the continuation of a family line through the kinsman-redeemer. This connection between Ruth and Boaz through family lines sets the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan, demonstrating how God uses familial relationships to fulfill His purposes.

In fact, he is winnowing barley tonight
The act of winnowing barley was a common agricultural practice in ancient Israel, involving the separation of grain from chaff. This process took place at the threshing floor, a significant location in biblical narratives, often symbolizing a place of decision and revelation. The timing of this event is providential, as it provides Ruth with the opportunity to approach Boaz in a culturally appropriate manner, seeking his protection and provision.

at the threshing floor
The threshing floor is a place of transformation and blessing. In biblical times, it was not only a site for agricultural activity but also a place where significant events occurred, such as divine encounters and covenantal agreements. The threshing floor in Ruth's account becomes a setting for God's unfolding plan of redemption, mirroring how God often uses ordinary places and circumstances to bring about His extraordinary purposes. This setting invites readers to consider how God might be working in the seemingly mundane aspects of their own lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and has come to Bethlehem to seek refuge and provision.

2. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who has returned to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons. She is guiding Ruth in seeking security and provision.

3. Boaz
A wealthy and influential relative of Naomi's late husband, Elimelech. He is a potential kinsman-redeemer for Ruth, which is a key concept in this account.

4. Threshing Floor
A place where grain is separated from chaff. It is significant as a setting for the unfolding of God's providential plan for Ruth and Boaz.

5. Bethlehem
The town where Naomi and Ruth have returned, and where Boaz resides. It is also the future birthplace of Jesus, connecting this account to the larger biblical account.

Teaching Points

God's Providence
The account of Ruth and Boaz illustrates God's providential care and guidance. Even in difficult circumstances, God is at work to bring about His purposes.

Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer
Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer is a foreshadowing of Christ, our ultimate Redeemer. Understanding this role helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's redemptive work.

Faith and Initiative
Ruth's willingness to follow Naomi's guidance and take initiative at the threshing floor demonstrates faith in action. Believers are encouraged to trust God and take steps of faith in their own lives.

Community and Support
The relationship between Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz highlights the importance of community and mutual support within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth 3:2 relate to the role of Jesus as our Redeemer? Consider the cultural and spiritual implications.

2. In what ways does Ruth's character in this chapter exemplify the qualities of a virtuous woman as described in Proverbs 31?

3. How can we see God's providence at work in the events of Ruth 3:2, and how can this encourage us in our own life circumstances?

4. What steps of faith did Ruth take in this chapter, and how can we apply similar principles of faith and initiative in our own lives?

5. How does the community support seen in the relationship between Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz challenge us to build and nurture supportive relationships within our own faith communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:25
This verse outlines the role of a kinsman-redeemer, which is central to understanding Boaz's potential role in Ruth's life.

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
Provides the law concerning levirate marriage, which underpins the cultural and legal context of Ruth's actions and Naomi's advice.

Proverbs 31:10-31
The description of a virtuous woman, which parallels Ruth's character and actions throughout the book.