Biblical Context:
The account of Naomi advising Ruth is found in the Book of Ruth, specifically in Ruth 3. This narrative 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.

Key Characters:
· Naomi: A Jewish widow who returns to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons. She is a woman of faith and wisdom, seeking the best for her daughter-in-law, Ruth.
· Ruth: A Moabite widow and Naomi's daughter-in-law, known for her loyalty and devotion to Naomi. She chooses to follow Naomi to Bethlehem and adopt her people and God as her own.
· Boaz: A wealthy and influential relative of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. He is a man of integrity and becomes the kinsman-redeemer for Ruth.

Narrative Summary:
Upon returning to Bethlehem, Naomi and Ruth find themselves in a precarious situation as widows without means of support. Ruth takes the initiative to glean in the fields to provide for them, and she happens to work in the field of Boaz, who shows her kindness and protection.

In Ruth 3, Naomi devises a plan to secure a future for Ruth. She instructs Ruth to wash, anoint herself, and put on her best clothes, then go to the threshing floor where Boaz is winnowing barley. Naomi advises Ruth to wait until Boaz has finished eating and drinking, then to uncover his feet and lie down, a gesture of seeking protection and invoking the role of a kinsman-redeemer.

Biblical Text:
Naomi's instructions to Ruth are recorded in Ruth 3:3-4 : "Therefore 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. 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."

Ruth follows Naomi's guidance, and Boaz responds with honor and respect, acknowledging Ruth's kindness and integrity. He agrees to take on the role of kinsman-redeemer, provided a closer relative does not fulfill this duty.

Theological Themes:
· Providence and Redemption: The narrative highlights God's providential care and the concept of redemption. Naomi's plan and Ruth's actions lead to a divinely orchestrated outcome, securing Ruth's and Naomi's future.
· Loyalty and Faithfulness: Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her willingness to follow her advice demonstrate a deep commitment and faithfulness, which are rewarded by God.
· Cultural and Legal Customs: The account provides insight into the cultural and legal practices of ancient Israel, particularly the role of the kinsman-redeemer, which foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Christ.

Significance:
Naomi's advice to Ruth is a pivotal moment in the narrative, showcasing the interplay of human initiative and divine guidance. It underscores the importance of wise counsel, faith-driven actions, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through ordinary lives. The account of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz ultimately contributes to the lineage of King David and, by extension, to the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew.