Analysis of Ruth Chapter 3
Ruth Chapter 3 is a crucial segment in the Book of Ruth, as it narrates the unfolding of an important event where Ruth visits the threshing floor to meet Boaz. This chapter is pivotal because it showcases themes of loyalty, love, faith, and divine providence. It offers a deep insight into the characters of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz, their relationships, and their faith. Let’s explore the chapter verse by verse, analyzing and interpreting its key elements and underlying messages.
Ruth 3:1-2 – Naomi’s Plan
“Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, ‘My daughter, should I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you? Is not Boaz our relative, with whose young women you were? See, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor.'” (ESV)
Naomi, concerned for Ruth’s future and well-being, devises a plan to secure her a stable and prosperous future. The term “rest” here refers to security and a permanent home, which were especially important in the cultural context of the time. Naomi’s question highlights her maternal care and responsibility for Ruth’s future. Her reference to Boaz points to his role as the kinsman-redeemer, a key concept in Jewish law wherein a close relative marries a widow to preserve the family lineage and property.
Ruth 3:3-5 – Ruth’s Preparation
“Wash therefore and anoint yourself, and put on your cloak and go down to the threshing floor, but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. But when he lies down, observe the place where he lies. Then, go and uncover his feet and lie down, and he will tell you what to do.’ And she replied, ‘All that you say I will do.'” (ESV)
Naomi instructs Ruth to prepare herself carefully and approach Boaz in a specific manner, demonstrating her wisdom and understanding of social customs. The acts of washing, anointing, and wearing a cloak signify Ruth presenting herself with dignity and as a prospective bride. Uncovering Boaz’s feet and lying down was a culturally understood gesture of requesting protection and marriage. Ruth’s response, “All that you say I will do,” exemplifies her trust in Naomi and her willingness to take bold steps for their future.
Ruth 3:6-7 – Obedience and Timing
“So she went down to the threshing floor and did just as her mother-in-law had commanded her. And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then she came softly and uncovered his feet and lay down.” (ESV)
Ruth’s actions reflect her obedience and faithfulness. By waiting until Boaz had finished eating and drinking, she ensures he is in good spirits, demonstrating wisdom in choosing the right moment. The act of uncovering his feet symbolizes vulnerability and trust. The threshing-floor setting, a place of separation of grain from chaff, metaphorically underscores the imminent separation of Ruth’s past struggles from her hopeful future.
Ruth 3:8-9 – A Bold Request
“At midnight the man was startled and turned over, and behold, a woman lay at his feet! He said, ‘Who are you?’ And she answered, ‘I am Ruth, your servant. Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer.'” (ESV)
Boaz’s reaction of being startled is natural, and his immediate question reflects concern and curiosity. Ruth’s response is humble yet assertive. By stating her identity, she acknowledges her position, and by requesting him to “spread your wings,” she refers to Boaz providing protection and considering marriage, as “wings” symbolize God’s providential care (as mentioned in Ruth 2:12). Her appeal directly invokes the role of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer, making this a turning point in their relationship.
Ruth 3:10-11 – Boaz’s Response
“And he said, ‘May you be blessed by the LORD, my daughter. You have made this last kindness greater than the first in that you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you ask, for all my fellow townsmen know that you are a worthy woman.'” (ESV)
Boaz’s blessing and acknowledgment of Ruth’s kindness reveal his deep respect and admiration for her. His reference to her kindness being greater than the first likely alludes to her loyalty to Naomi and now to her noble choice of seeking a redeemer instead of pursuing younger men for personal gain. Boaz’s reassurance alleviates Ruth’s fears, underscoring his commitment and recognition of her virtuous character. This verse solidifies the moral integrity and respect between Ruth and Boaz, laying a foundation for their relationship.
Ruth 3:12-13 – The Legal Hurdle
“And now it is true that I am a redeemer. Yet there is a redeemer nearer than I. Remain tonight, and in the morning, if he will redeem you, good; let him do it. But if he is not willing to redeem you, then, as the LORD lives, I will redeem you. Lie down until the morning.” (ESV)
Boaz acknowledges his role but also introduces a legal complication: a nearer kinsman who holds the primary right to redeem. His adherence to the law underscores his righteousness and respect for tradition. By asking Ruth to remain until morning, he provides her security and protects her reputation by avoiding a potentially scandalous departure during the night. Boaz’s vow, “as the LORD lives,” reflects his solemn commitment to fulfilling the redemption if the nearer kinsman declines.
Ruth 3:14-15 – Protecting Reputation
“So she lay at his feet until the morning, but arose before one could recognize another. And he said, ‘Let it not be known that the woman came to the threshing floor.’ And he said, ‘Bring the garment you are wearing and hold it out.’ So she held it, and he measured out six measures of barley and put it on her. Then she went into the city.” (ESV)
Ruth lying until morning symbolizes a night of protection and honor. Boaz’s concern for her reputation is evident in his instruction to leave before daylight, ensuring their actions are not misunderstood. The six measures of barley granted to Ruth serve multiple purposes: a gift of provision and a tangible sign of Boaz’s favor and commitment to Naomi as well. The generous gift highlights Boaz’s character as providential and generous.
Ruth 3:16-18 – Reporting to Naomi
“And when she came to her mother-in-law, she said, ‘How did you fare, my daughter?’ Then she told her all that the man had done for her, saying, ‘These six measures of barley he gave to me, for he said to me, ‘You must not go back empty-handed to your mother-in-law.” She replied, ‘Wait, my daughter, until you learn how the matter turns out, for the man will not rest but will settle the matter today.'” (ESV)
Naomi’s anxious query reflects her concern and anticipation. Ruth’s account of Boaz’s actions, including his gift, reassures Naomi of his integrity and goodwill. The phrase “you must not go back empty-handed” signifies Boaz’s respect for Naomi and acknowledgment of her role. Naomi’s counsel to wait reflects her trust in Boaz’s character and her understanding of the legal proceedings that must follow. She recognizes that Boaz, as a man of his word, will ensure the matter is resolved promptly and justly.
Thematic Exploration
The chapter elegantly captures several critical themes:
Loyalty and Kindness
Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her willingness to follow her instructions without hesitation demonstrates her steadfastness and kindness. Boaz acknowledges this kindness as exceptional, highlighting the importance of loyalty and genuine love in relationships.
Courage and Initiative
Ruth’s actions at the threshing floor required immense courage and initiative. Her approach to Boaz, while adhering to cultural norms, was bold and assertive, reflecting a proactive attitude in seeking redemption and security.
Protection and Provision
Boaz’s response to Ruth showcases his role as a protector and provider. His actions, from offering reassurance to providing barley, highlight the responsibilities of a redeemer and the importance of care and provision within family structures.
Divine Providence
The chapter subtly underscores the concept of divine providence. The events unfold in a manner that reflects God’s guidance and provision, ensuring that the righteous, like Ruth and Boaz, find favor and fulfillment of purpose.
Conclusion
Ruth Chapter 3 is a profound narrative that provides deep insights into the characters of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. It showcases the complex interplay of human initiative and divine providence, where loyalty, courage, and righteousness lead to redemption and hope. The chapter sets the stage for the resolution of Ruth’s and Naomi’s situation, reaffirming faith in God’s plans and underscoring the values of loyalty, kindness, and integrity.
