Context and Background

Naomi's plan for Ruth's security is a pivotal moment in the Book of Ruth, which is set during the time of the judges, a period characterized by social and religious upheaval in Israel. Naomi, a widow from Bethlehem, had moved to Moab with her husband Elimelech and their two sons due to a famine. After the deaths of her husband and sons, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, accompanied by her Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth, who had pledged her loyalty to Naomi and to the God of Israel (Ruth 1:16-17).

The Plan

Upon their return to Bethlehem, Naomi sought to secure a future for Ruth, who had shown remarkable devotion and kindness. Naomi's plan is detailed in Ruth 3:1-5 :

"One 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? Now is not Boaz, with whose servant girls you have been working, a relative of ours? In fact, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor. Therefore wash yourself, put on perfume, and wear your best clothes. Go down to the threshing floor, but do not let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, note the place where he lies. Then go in, uncover his feet, and lie down. He will explain to you what you should do.' 'I will do everything you say,' Ruth answered."

Cultural and Legal Considerations

Naomi's plan was deeply rooted in the cultural and legal practices of ancient Israel. The concept of a "kinsman-redeemer" (Hebrew: go'el) was integral to the Mosaic Law, providing a means for preserving family lineage and property within the clan (Leviticus 25:25, Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Boaz, being a relative of Elimelech, was eligible to fulfill this role for Ruth and Naomi.

Naomi's instructions to Ruth were both strategic and respectful of the customs of the time. By advising Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor, Naomi was orchestrating a private encounter where Ruth could appeal to Boaz's duty as a kinsman-redeemer. The act of uncovering Boaz's feet and lying down was a culturally understood gesture of submission and a request for protection and redemption.

Ruth's Obedience and Boaz's Response

Ruth's compliance with Naomi's plan demonstrated her trust in Naomi's wisdom and her own courage and integrity. Ruth 3:6-9 describes the encounter:

"So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law had instructed her to do. 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. In the middle of the night, something startled the man, and he turned and discovered a woman lying at his feet. 'Who are you?' he asked. 'I am your servant Ruth,' she replied. 'Spread the corner of your garment over me, for you are a kinsman-redeemer.'"

Boaz's response was one of honor and integrity. He praised Ruth for her kindness and assured her that he would do all that was required, acknowledging her as a woman of noble character (Ruth 3:10-11). Boaz's willingness to act as a redeemer, contingent upon the resolution of a closer relative's claim, set the stage for the eventual marriage of Boaz and Ruth, securing Ruth's future and preserving Naomi's family line.

Significance

Naomi's plan for Ruth's security is a testament to her faith, wisdom, and understanding of God's providence. It highlights the themes of loyalty, redemption, and divine provision that permeate the Book of Ruth. Through Naomi's guidance and Ruth's obedience, God's sovereign plan unfolds, leading to the inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite, in the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5).