◄ Ruth 3 ►
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Ruth’s Redemption Assured 1One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, should I not seek a resting place for you, that it may be well with you? 2Now 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. 3Therefore wash yourself, put on perfume, and wear your best clothes. Go down to the threshing floor, but do not let the man know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4When he lies down, note the place where he lies. Then go in and uncover his feet, and lie down, and he will explain to you what you should do.” 5“I will do everything you say,” Ruth answered. 6So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law had instructed her to do. 7After Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then Ruth went in secretly, uncovered his feet, and lay down. 8At midnight, Boaz was startled, turned over, and there lying at his feet was a woman! 9“Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she replied. “Spread the corner of your garmenta over me, for you are a kinsman-redeemer.b” 10Then Boaz said, “May the LORD bless you, my daughter. You have shown more kindness now than before, because you have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11And now do not be afraid, my daughter. I will do for you whatever you request, since all my fellow townspeople know that you are a woman of noble character. 12Yes, it is true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a redeemer nearer than I.c 13Stay here tonight, and in the morning, if he wants to redeem you, good. Let him redeem you. But if he does not want to redeem you, as surely as the LORD lives, I will. Now lie here until morning.” 14So she lay down at his feet until morning, but she got up before anyone else could recognize her. Then Boaz said, “Do not let it be known that a woman came to the threshing floor.” 15And he told her, “Bring the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.” When she did so, he poured in six measures of barleyd and placed it on her. Then he wente into the city. 16When Ruth returned to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked her, “How did it go, my daughter?” Then Ruth told her all that Boaz had done for her. 17And she said, “He gave me these six measures of barley, for he said, ‘Do not go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.’” 18“Wait, my daughter,” said Naomi, “until you find out how things go, for he will not rest unless he has resolved the matter today.” Footnotes: 9 a Or Spread your wing; the word for wing can also mean corner of a garment; see Ruth 2:12. 9 b The Hebrew word for kinsman-redeemer or guardian-redeemer is a legal term for the kinsman who redeems or vindicates a relative; similarly in verses 12 and 13; see Leviticus 25:25–55. 12 c That is, more closely related 15 d Possibly six seahs (two ephahs), or approximately 39.6 dry quarts or 43.8 liters (about 58 pounds or 26.3 kilograms of barley) 15 e Most Hebrew manuscripts; many Hebrew manuscripts, Vulgate, and Syriac she went Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ruth 3 Summary Ruth's Redemption Assured Verses 1–5 – Naomi’s Plan Naomi, wanting lasting security for Ruth, advises her to wash, perfume, and don her best clothes, then go to the threshing floor where Boaz is winnowing barley. Ruth is to wait until Boaz has eaten and fallen asleep, then uncover his feet and lie down. Naomi trusts Boaz will know how to respond and secure Ruth’s future. Verses 6–9 – The Midnight Encounter Ruth carries out Naomi’s instructions. At midnight Boaz awakens, startled to find a woman at his feet. Ruth identifies herself and says, “Spread the corner of your garment over your maidservant, for you are a kinsman-redeemer.” Verses 10–13 – Boaz’s Pledge Boaz praises Ruth for her loyal love, calling her a woman of noble character. He promises to redeem her if the nearer relative declines, swearing an oath before the LORD to act the next morning. Verses 14–18 – Early Morning Departure Ruth remains at Boaz’s feet until dawn. Before she leaves, Boaz fills her shawl with six measures of barley—evidence of his intent—and sends her back to Naomi. Naomi, assured by the gift, confidently predicts Boaz will settle the matter that very day. Ruth 3 is a turning point in the narrative of the Book of Ruth, symbolizing the blossoming of a potential redemption story. Ruth and Naomi, two widows, navigate the ancient customs and laws to secure their future in a male-dominated society. This chapter shows the transformational power of faithfulness and courage, setting the stage for a account of redemption. Historical Setting: Threshing Floors and Nighttime Winnowing • Threshing floors were open, elevated areas outside town. After harvest, farmers beat and toss grain so evening breezes separate chaff from kernels (Judges 6:11). • Owners slept nearby during this festive period to protect the grain and celebrate God’s provision (Isaiah 9:3). The scene mixes business, joy, and community. Custom of the Kinsman-Redeemer • Leviticus 25:25 and Deuteronomy 25:5–10 outline a relative’s duty to restore family land and continue a family line. • By asking Boaz to spread his cloak, Ruth invokes this covenant duty. The Hebrew word for “corner” can also mean “wing,” echoing Boaz’s earlier blessing that Ruth had taken refuge under the LORD’s wings (Ruth 2:12). Symbolism of Washing, Anointing, and Garments • Changing clothes signaled a shift from mourning to hope (2 Samuel 12:20). Ruth, a widow in work garments, now dresses as a bride-to-be. • Ezekiel 16:8 uses the image of spreading a garment to describe God entering covenant with Israel. Ruth’s request carries both legal and tender overtones. Moral Integrity on a Dark Night • The text stresses purity: Ruth lies at Boaz’s feet, not in his arms. Boaz repeatedly calls her “my daughter,” a protective term. • Proverbs 31:10–31 describes a virtuous woman; in Ruth 3:11 Boaz applies that exact phrase to Ruth. Their restraint underlines God-honoring character in private as well as public. Harvest Imagery Across Scripture • Psalm 126:5–6 links sowing in tears to reaping in joy, mirroring Naomi’s journey from famine to fullness. • Jesus invites workers into a ripe spiritual harvest (John 4:35). Boaz’s generosity previews the Messiah’s abundant grace. Foreshadowing of Christ the Redeemer • Jesus took on human flesh to become our “brother” (Hebrews 2:11-17), qualifying Him as our ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer. • Like Boaz, He pays the price publicly (Colossians 2:14-15) and covers believers with His righteousness (Galatians 3:27). Archaeological Insights • Excavations at Tel Megiddo and Gezer reveal circular stone threshing floors dating to the judges’ era, roughly 12–11th centuries BC. • Barley storage pits and olive-wood threshing sledges found nearby match the agricultural backdrop of Ruth. Connections to Other Scriptures • Genesis 38 contrasts Judah’s failure as kinsman with Boaz’s faithfulness. • In 2 Samuel 24:18-25, David purchases a threshing floor that becomes the temple site—God turns ordinary ground into holy space, just as He turns Ruth’s humble request into a royal lineage (Matthew 1:5-6). • Isaiah 54:5 proclaims, “Your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel,” knitting Ruth’s personal account into God’s grand redemption plan. Practical Takeaways • God works through everyday obedience; Ruth’s simple acts lead to King David and, ultimately, to Jesus. • Integrity is lived out when no one is watching. Character shown on a threshing floor at midnight shapes destinies. • The Lord invites believers to take bold, faith-filled steps, trusting that He is already arranging the outcome for their good and His glory. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it. Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. Teaching Points Naomi's Plan and Ruth's Obedience Naomi instructs Ruth to go to Boaz at the threshing floor, demonstrating a strategic plan rooted in cultural customs and faith in God's provision (Ruth 3:1-5). Ruth's Boldness and Humility Ruth approaches Boaz with humility and boldness, asking him to be her kinsman-redeemer, a request that reflects her trust in God's provision and Boaz's character (Ruth 3:6-9). Boaz's Integrity and Kindness Boaz responds with integrity, acknowledging Ruth's kindness and promising to fulfill his duty if the closer kinsman-redeemer declines (Ruth 3:10-13). God's Providential Timing The events unfold in God's perfect timing, highlighting His sovereignty and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through ordinary lives (Ruth 3:14-18). Practical Applications Trust in God's Provision Like Ruth, we are called to trust in God's provision and timing, even when the path is uncertain. Act with Integrity and Kindness Boaz's response to Ruth is a model of integrity and kindness, qualities we should strive to emulate in our interactions with others. Seek Godly Counsel Naomi's guidance to Ruth underscores the importance of seeking wise and godly counsel in our decision-making processes. Embrace Boldness in Faith Ruth's boldness in approaching Boaz encourages us to step out in faith, trusting that God will honor our obedience. People 1. Naomi Naomi is Ruth's mother-in-law. In Ruth 3, she plays a pivotal role by advising Ruth on how to approach Boaz. Naomi's guidance is crucial in the unfolding of the events that lead to Ruth's eventual marriage to Boaz. Her name in Hebrew, נָעֳמִי (Na'omi), means "pleasant" or "my delight." 2. Ruth Ruth is the Moabite widow of Naomi's son, Mahlon. She is known for her loyalty and devotion to Naomi, as well as her faith in the God of Israel. In this chapter, Ruth follows Naomi's instructions to seek out Boaz on the threshing floor, demonstrating her courage and commitment. Her name in Hebrew, רוּת (Rut), is thought to mean "friend" or "companion." 3. Boaz Boaz is a wealthy relative of Naomi's late husband, Elimelech. He is described as a man of standing and integrity. In Ruth 3, Boaz responds honorably to Ruth's request for protection and redemption, recognizing her virtuous character. His name in Hebrew, בֹּעַז (Bo'az), means "strength" or "swiftness." Places 1. Bethlehem The chapter is set in the town of Bethlehem, where Naomi and Ruth have returned after leaving Moab. Bethlehem, meaning "House of Bread" in Hebrew, is significant as the setting for the events in the Book of Ruth and later as the birthplace of King David and Jesus. 2. Threshing Floor The threshing floor is a central location in Ruth 3. It is where Boaz winnows barley and where Ruth approaches him at night. The threshing floor was typically a flat, open area where grain was separated from chaff, and it often held social and economic significance in ancient Israelite culture. Events 1. Naomi's Plan for Ruth Naomi advises Ruth to seek security with Boaz, a relative who could act as a kinsman-redeemer. Naomi instructs Ruth to wash, anoint herself, and put on her best clothes before going to the threshing floor where Boaz is winnowing barley (Ruth 3:1-3). The Hebrew word for "kinsman-redeemer" is "go'el," which refers to a relative who has the responsibility to redeem a family member in distress. 2. Ruth Approaches Boaz Ruth follows Naomi's instructions and goes to the threshing floor. After Boaz has eaten and drunk and lies down, Ruth approaches quietly, uncovers his feet, and lies down (Ruth 3:6-7). The act of uncovering his feet is a symbolic gesture of seeking protection and proposing marriage under the levirate law. 3. Boaz's Reaction Boaz is startled at midnight to find a woman at his feet. He asks, "Who are you?" Ruth identifies herself and requests Boaz to spread his cloak over her, signifying his role as a redeemer (Ruth 3:8-9). The phrase "spread your cloak" is a metaphor for taking someone under one's protection, akin to a marriage proposal. 4. Boaz's Praise and Promise Boaz praises Ruth for her kindness and loyalty, noting that she did not pursue younger men. He acknowledges her as a "woman of noble character" and promises to do what she asks, provided the nearer kinsman-redeemer declines his duty (Ruth 3:10-13). The Hebrew term "eshet chayil" (woman of noble character) is significant, highlighting Ruth's virtuous reputation. 5. Ruth Returns to Naomi Before dawn, Boaz instructs Ruth to leave discreetly to protect her reputation. He gives her six measures of barley to take back to Naomi as a sign of his commitment (Ruth 3:14-15). The gift of barley symbolizes Boaz's willingness to provide and care for Ruth and Naomi. 6. Naomi's Assurance Ruth returns to Naomi and recounts the events. Naomi assures Ruth that Boaz will not rest until he resolves the matter of redemption that day (Ruth 3:16-18). Naomi's confidence in Boaz's integrity and diligence reflects the cultural importance of fulfilling one's duty as a redeemer. Lessons from Ruth 3 1. Embrace Humility and Service In Ruth 3, we see Ruth's humility and willingness to serve Naomi. She follows Naomi's instructions without hesitation, demonstrating a heart of service. This reminds us of Philippians 2:3, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." Ruth's example encourages us to serve others selflessly, trusting that God will honor our humility. 2. Seek Wise Counsel Ruth listens to Naomi's guidance, showing the importance of seeking wise counsel. Proverbs 15:22 tells us, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." Surrounding ourselves with godly mentors can help us navigate life's challenges with wisdom and discernment. 3. Take Bold Steps of Faith Ruth's approach to Boaz on the threshing floor was a bold step of faith. She trusted in God's provision and took action. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, "And without faith it is impossible to please God." Sometimes, stepping out in faith is necessary to see God's plans unfold in our lives. 4. Trust in God's Timing Ruth's story is a testament to the importance of trusting in God's perfect timing. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, "He has made everything beautiful in its time." Ruth's patience and trust in God's timing led to her becoming part of the lineage of Christ, showing us that waiting on the Lord is always worth it. 5. Honor and Integrity Matter Boaz's response to Ruth's request highlights the importance of honor and integrity. He acts with righteousness, ensuring that everything is done properly. Proverbs 11:3 states, "The integrity of the upright guides them." Living with integrity honors God and builds trust with others. 6. God Provides for the Faithful Ruth's faithfulness to Naomi and God did not go unnoticed. Boaz's generosity towards her is a reminder of God's provision for those who are faithful. Philippians 4:19 assures us, "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." 7. The Power of Redemption Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer foreshadows Christ's redemptive work. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, Jesus redeems us. Ephesians 1:7 declares, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace." 8. God Works Through Ordinary People Ruth was a Moabite widow, yet God used her in His grand plan. This reminds us that God often works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. 1 Corinthians 1:27 says, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise." 9. Love and Loyalty are Powerful Ruth's love and loyalty to Naomi are central themes in her story. Her unwavering commitment is a powerful example of love in action. John 15:13 tells us, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." 10. God's Plans are Greater Than Our Own Ruth's journey from widowhood to becoming the great-grandmother of King David shows that God's plans are far greater than we can imagine. Jeremiah 29:11 reassures us, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Trusting in God's plan brings hope and purpose to our lives. Topics 1. Naomi's Plan for Ruth's Security Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, devises a plan to secure Ruth's future by seeking a marriage with Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer. Naomi instructs Ruth to wash, anoint herself, and put on her best clothes before going to the threshing floor. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "go'el" (גֹּאֵל), meaning kinsman-redeemer, which is central to the narrative. ^Ruth 3:1 :^ "Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, 'My daughter, should I not seek a place of rest for you, that it may be well with you?'" 2. Ruth's Obedience to Naomi Ruth demonstrates her loyalty and obedience by following Naomi's instructions precisely. This act of obedience is significant in the Hebrew context of "hesed" (חֶסֶד), meaning loving-kindness or loyalty. ^Ruth 3:5 :^ "I will do everything you say," Ruth answered. 3. Ruth's Approach to Boaz Ruth approaches Boaz at the threshing floor, uncovering his feet and lying down. This act is a culturally significant gesture of requesting protection and redemption. The Hebrew word "margelot" (מַרְגְּלוֹת) refers to the place at his feet, symbolizing submission and a plea for redemption. ^Ruth 3:7 :^ "After Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Then Ruth came in quietly, uncovered his feet, and lay down." 4. Boaz's Response to Ruth Boaz responds with kindness and integrity, acknowledging Ruth's noble character and her choice to seek him as a redeemer. He praises her for not pursuing younger men and reassures her of his willingness to fulfill the role of kinsman-redeemer, provided a closer relative does not redeem her first. ^Ruth 3:10-11 :^ "Then Boaz said, 'May the LORD bless you, my daughter. You have shown more kindness now than before, because you have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. And now do not be afraid, my daughter. I will do for you whatever you request, since all my fellow townspeople know that you are a woman of noble character.'" 5. The Provision of Boaz Before Ruth leaves, Boaz provides her with six measures of barley, symbolizing his commitment to care for her and Naomi. This act of provision is a tangible expression of "hesed" and foreshadows the redemption to come. ^Ruth 3:15 :^ "And he told her, 'Bring the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.' When she did so, he shoveled six measures of barley into her shawl. Then he went into the city." 6. Naomi's Assurance of Redemption Naomi reassures Ruth that Boaz will not rest until the matter is resolved, highlighting the urgency and certainty of redemption. This reflects the Hebrew understanding of "shalom" (שָׁלוֹם), meaning peace or completeness, which is achieved through redemption. ^Ruth 3:18 :^ "Wait, my daughter," said Naomi, "until you find out how things go, for he will not rest unless he has resolved the matter today." Themes 1. Redemption and Kinsman-Redeemer Ruth 3 highlights the theme of redemption through the concept of the kinsman-redeemer. Boaz is identified as a potential redeemer for Ruth and Naomi, which is rooted in the Hebrew term "go'el" (גֹּאֵל), meaning a family protector or redeemer. This theme foreshadows the ultimate redemption found in Christ. 2. Loyalty and Obedience Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her obedience to Naomi's instructions are central to this chapter. Ruth 3:5 states, "I will do everything you say," demonstrating her commitment and trust. This reflects the Hebrew value of "hesed" (חֶסֶד), or loving-kindness, which is a key aspect of covenant relationships. 3. Providence and Divine Guidance The chapter illustrates God's providence and guidance in the lives of Ruth and Naomi. Naomi's plan and Ruth's actions lead to a favorable outcome, suggesting that God is orchestrating events behind the scenes. This theme is seen in the unfolding of events that align with God's purposes. 4. Integrity and Honor Boaz's response to Ruth's approach at the threshing floor demonstrates his integrity and honor. In Ruth 3:11, Boaz says, "All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character." His actions reflect the Hebrew concept of "tsedeq" (צֶדֶק), meaning righteousness or justice. 5. Hope and Future Security The chapter conveys a sense of hope and future security for Ruth and Naomi. Boaz's willingness to act as a redeemer provides a glimmer of hope for their future. This theme is encapsulated in Ruth 3:18, where Naomi reassures Ruth, "Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens." Prayer Points Pray for the faith to trust in God's provision and timing in your life. Ask God to help you act with integrity and kindness in all your relationships. Seek God's wisdom and guidance in making decisions, just as Ruth sought Naomi's counsel. Pray for boldness to step out in faith, trusting that God will honor your obedience and commitment to His will. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ruth 3:3–4, why would Naomi instruct Ruth to approach Boaz at night in secret instead of openly, raising questions about her motives or social conventions? 2. In Ruth 3:7–8, how did Ruth’s presence remain unnoticed until Boaz awoke, and what does this suggest about the setting or cultural practices? 3. Ruth 3:9 records a phrase about “spreading a garment” over Ruth—how does this align with or contradict marriage traditions documented in other ancient Near Eastern sources? 4. If Boaz was significantly older, as some traditions suggest (Ruth 3:10), why would the text not address more clearly the potential social or power dynamics in this union? 5. Ruth 3 and Deuteronomy 25:5–10 both discuss redemption and levirate obligations; how do the different laws and customs reconcile, or do they reveal inconsistencies? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Ruth 3 demonstrate the theme of faithfulness? 2. What does Ruth's boldness teach us about stepping out of our comfort zone in faith? 3. Discuss how the cultural norms of the time influenced Naomi's plan. How might this situation play out differently in today's society? 4. How does Boaz's response reflect God's loving-kindness? 5. How does Ruth embody humility and respect in this chapter? 6. How would you react in Ruth’s situation? Would you have the courage to do what she did? 7. What can we learn about patience and waiting on God's timing from this chapter? 8. Can you see evidence of God's providence unfolding in this chapter? How? 9. How does Boaz demonstrate integrity and honor in this situation? 10. What can we learn about taking risks from Ruth and Naomi’s actions in this chapter? 11. How does Ruth's approach to Boaz challenge or reinforce your understanding of gender roles in the Bible? 12. Discuss the implications of the Levirate marriage law in Ruth's situation. How does this compare to the concept of marriage and inheritance in your own culture? 13. How does the unfolding story between Ruth, Boaz, and Naomi enhance your understanding of God’s purpose in unexpected situations? 14. How does Ruth's interaction with Boaz reflect trust and vulnerability? 15. In what ways does the story of Ruth 3 inspire you in your present circumstances? 16. How does the gift of barley given to Ruth by Boaz symbolize his commitment and the hope of redemption? 17. Can you identify with Ruth or Naomi's predicament? How would you handle their situation in today's context? 18. What qualities does Boaz display that make him a good kinsman-redeemer? How can these qualities be applied in our relationships today? 19. Discuss the nature of Ruth's courage in this chapter. How does her story inspire you to act courageously? 20. How does this chapter shape your understanding of God's providence and His ability to redeem and restore? 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