Ruth 3:13

Stay 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."

Study Bible

Stay here tonight
This phrase reflects Boaz's concern for Ruth's safety and reputation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a woman traveling alone at night could face danger or social scandal. The Hebrew word for "stay" (לִין, lin) implies lodging or resting, suggesting Boaz's protective nature and his desire to ensure Ruth's well-being.

and in the morning
The mention of "morning" signifies a new beginning or opportunity. In biblical literature, morning often symbolizes hope and the unfolding of God's plans. Boaz's plan to resolve the matter at the start of a new day reflects his integrity and urgency in addressing Ruth's situation.

if he wants to redeem you, good; let him redeem you
The concept of "redeem" (גָּאַל, ga'al) is central to the book of Ruth and the broader biblical narrative. It involves a kinsman-redeemer, a family member who restores or preserves the family line and property. Boaz acknowledges the nearer kinsman-redeemer's right, demonstrating his respect for the law and God's order.

But if he does not want to redeem you
Boaz's conditional statement shows his willingness to act if the nearer kinsman-redeemer declines. This reflects Boaz's readiness to fulfill his duty and his deep commitment to Ruth and Naomi's welfare. It also highlights the theme of divine providence, as God orchestrates events for the good of His people.

as surely as the LORD lives
This oath underscores the seriousness and sincerity of Boaz's promise. Invoking the name of the LORD (יהוה, Yahweh) signifies a solemn vow, binding Boaz to his word. It reflects the covenantal faithfulness that characterizes God's relationship with His people and serves as a model for human interactions.

I will
Boaz's declaration of intent is a powerful testament to his character. His willingness to redeem Ruth, despite the potential cost, mirrors the selfless love and redemption that Christ offers. Boaz's actions foreshadow the ultimate redemption found in Jesus, who redeems humanity from sin and death.

Lie here until morning
This instruction again emphasizes Boaz's concern for Ruth's safety and reputation. By asking her to stay until morning, Boaz ensures that Ruth is not exposed to danger or gossip. It also reflects the cultural norms of the time, where propriety and honor were highly valued. Boaz's actions demonstrate his respect for Ruth and his commitment to doing what is right in the eyes of God and man.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, Boaz is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. He is a man of integrity and kindness, playing the role of a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth and Naomi.

2. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown great loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi. She seeks protection and provision through the custom of levirate marriage by approaching Boaz.

3. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who has returned to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons. She guides Ruth in seeking Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer.

4. Bethlehem
The setting of the account, a town in Judah where Naomi and Ruth return and where Boaz's fields are located.

5. Kinsman-Redeemer
A cultural and legal role in ancient Israel where a close relative could redeem a family member in distress, often by marrying a widow to preserve the family line.

Teaching Points

Integrity and Honor
Boaz's response to Ruth's request demonstrates his integrity and commitment to doing what is right. In our lives, we should strive to act with honor and integrity, even when faced with complex situations.

God's Provision
The account of Ruth and Boaz illustrates God's provision and faithfulness. We can trust that God will provide for our needs, often in unexpected ways.

Loyalty and Faithfulness
Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her willingness to follow her guidance is a powerful example of faithfulness. We are called to be loyal and faithful in our relationships, reflecting God's faithfulness to us.

Redemption and Hope
The role of the kinsman-redeemer points to the greater redemption found in Christ. Just as Boaz redeems Ruth, Jesus redeems us, offering hope and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Boaz's response to Ruth in Ruth 3:13 reflect his character, and what can we learn from his example about integrity and responsibility?

2. In what ways does the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth 3:13 foreshadow the redemptive work of Christ in the New Testament?

3. How does Ruth's approach to Boaz demonstrate her faith and trust in God's provision, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives?

4. What role does Naomi play in guiding Ruth, and how can we seek and offer godly counsel in our relationships today?

5. How does the account of Ruth and Boaz encourage us to see God's hand at work in our circumstances, even when the outcome is uncertain?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The concept of a kinsman-redeemer is also seen in Leviticus 25, which outlines the responsibilities of a redeemer in terms of property and family.

The account of Ruth and Boaz is echoed in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1, highlighting the importance of their union in the lineage of Christ.

The theme of redemption is central to the New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul, who speaks of Christ as our ultimate Redeemer.