Ruth 3:1-11 ▼

1 Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, said to her, |My daughter, shouldn't I try to look for a home that would be good for you?

2 Isn't Boaz, whose young women you've been working with, our relative? He will be separating the barley from its husks on the threshing floor tonight.

3 Freshen up, put on some perfume, dress up, and go down to the threshing floor. Don't let him know that you're there until he's finished eating and drinking.

4 When he lies down, notice the place where he is lying. Then uncover his feet, and lie down there. He will make it clear what you must do.|

5 Ruth answered her, |I will do whatever you say.|

6 Ruth went to the threshing floor and did exactly as her mother-in-law had directed her.

7 Boaz had eaten and drunk to his heart's content, so he went and lay at the edge of a pile of grain. Then she went over to him secretly, uncovered his feet, and lay down.

8 At midnight the man was shivering. When he turned over, he was surprised to see a woman lying at his feet.

9 |Who are you?| he asked. She answered, |I am Ruth. Spread the corner of your garment over me because you are a close relative who can take care of me.|

10 Boaz replied, |May the LORD bless you, my daughter. This last kindness-that you didn't go after the younger men, whether rich or poor-is better than the first.

11 Don't be afraid, my daughter. I will do whatever you say. The whole town knows that you are a woman who has strength of character.