Context and Background

Naomi's plan for Ruth to seek Boaz as a redeemer is a pivotal moment in the Book of Ruth, which is set during the time of the judges in Israel. This narrative highlights themes of loyalty, providence, and redemption. Naomi, a widow who has returned to Bethlehem from Moab after the death of her husband and sons, is accompanied by her Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth. The two women face the challenges of widowhood and poverty in a patriarchal society.

The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer

In ancient Israel, the concept of the kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: "go'el") was integral to family and societal structure. The kinsman-redeemer had the responsibility to protect the interests of needy family members, which could include redeeming land that a relative had sold due to poverty or marrying a widow to preserve the family line. This practice is rooted in the Mosaic Law, as seen in Leviticus 25:25 and Deuteronomy 25:5-10.

Naomi's Strategy

Naomi, recognizing Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer, devises a plan for Ruth to seek his protection and provision. In Ruth 3:1-4 , Naomi instructs Ruth: "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. Then go down to the threshing floor, but do not let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking."

Naomi's plan is both bold and culturally sensitive. By advising Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor, Naomi is guiding her to a place where Boaz would be in a good mood and more likely to respond favorably. The act of uncovering Boaz's feet and lying down (Ruth 3:7) was a culturally understood gesture of seeking protection and proposing marriage under the levirate law.

Ruth's Obedience and Initiative

Ruth's response to Naomi's instructions demonstrates her loyalty and trust in Naomi's wisdom. Ruth 3:5-6 records her reply: "I will do everything you say," Ruth answered. So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law had instructed her to do. Ruth's actions reflect her faithfulness and courage, as she navigates a complex social situation as a foreigner in Israel.

Boaz's Response

Boaz's reaction to Ruth's proposal is one of honor and integrity. In Ruth 3:10-11 , Boaz says, "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." Boaz acknowledges Ruth's virtuous character and expresses his willingness to fulfill the role of redeemer, contingent upon the rights of a closer relative.

Significance in the Biblical Narrative

Naomi's plan and Ruth's subsequent actions set in motion the events that lead to the marriage of Ruth and Boaz, ultimately securing the lineage that would lead to King David and, according to Christian belief, to Jesus Christ. This narrative underscores the themes of divine providence and redemption, illustrating how God works through human actions and relationships to fulfill His purposes.