Ruth 3:1-18
Q.1. Why did Naomi hatch a plan for Ruth? What was the plan? How did she expect Boaz to respond? Did Ruth follow Naomi’s advice? What did Ruth mean by her response to Boaz? – (Ruth 3:1-9 c.f. Dt.25:5-10)
Ruth was coming home with her hard-earned winnowing rewards. Naomi then planned for Ruth to take advantage of Israel’s Levirate Law (Dt.25:5-10). This provided for a brother or nearest relative to act as redeemer, to raise up a son for the deceased, so the land inheritance would not be lost to the family. Naomi explained that Boaz could be that kinsman-redeemer. She instructed Ruth to – wash yourself therefore, and anoint yourself and put on your best clothes, and go down to the threshing floor (Ruth 3:3). Ruth responded – All that you say I will do (Ruth 3:5 c.f. Gen.37:13; Lk.1:38; Heb.10:7). After the harvest celebrations, the heart of Boaz was merry. He was unaware of Ruth’s presence. He was startled when he found her lying at his feet. Ruth explained to him – … I am Ruth your maid. So spread your covering over your maid, for you are a close relative (Ruth 3:9). She was asking Boaz to act as her kinsman-redeemer in the customary manner. Did he understand what was happening? As a godly man, he would be well acquainted with the significance of Ruth’s actions (Dt.25:5-10).
Q.2. How did Boaz view Ruth’s actions? Why? What was the problem with Ruth’s proposal? How did Boaz treat Ruth? What was Naomi’s hope for Ruth? – (Ruth 3:10-18)
Boaz expressed his gratitude that the younger Ruth did not seek out one of the younger men (Ruth 3:10). He promised to defer to her request – now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you whatever you ask, for all my people in the city know that you are a woman of excellence (Ruth 3:11). However, there was a catch – Now it is true I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than I (Ruth 3:12). Boaz made a promise – Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you, good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the Lord lives. Lie down until morning (Ruth 3:13). Boaz protected her reputation, kept her pure, and sent her away before morning, but not empty handed. The kinsman-redeemer was generous … Boaz gave her six measures of barley (Ruth 3:14-15). Upon returning home, Ruth shared her barley, and told Naomi of the conversation. This encouraged Naomi, and she instructed Ruth – … Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out; for the man will not rest until he has settled it today (Ruth 3:18).