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Ruth 3

18 verses

TL;DR

Naomi directs Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor; Ruth follows her mother‑in‑law’s instructions, Boaz welcomes her, offers her the kinsman‑redeemer covenant, and gives her barley.

Summary

Naomi, Ruth’s mother‑in‑law, proposes that Ruth go to the threshing floor and seek Boaz, a relative, as a potential kinsman‑redeemer. Ruth cleanses herself, anoints herself, and follows Naomi’s detailed plan to approach Boaz after he has finished eating. Boaz, upon seeing Ruth, welcomes her, calls her a “daughter,” and praises her for her loyalty. He explains that a closer kinsman exists, but if that person refuses, Boaz will step forward to redeem. Ruth remains at the threshing floor until morning, and Boaz measures out six sheaves of barley for her, acknowledging that she should not return empty to Naomi. Afterward, Ruth informs Naomi of Boaz’s kindness and the barley he gave her. Naomi advises Ruth to wait until Boaz’s intentions are clear before taking further action. The chapter sets the stage for the covenant that will secure Ruth’s future.

Outline
  1. Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Boaz; Ruth follows her plan.
  2. Boaz welcomes Ruth, offers the kinsman‑redeemer covenant, and provides barley.
  3. Ruth informs Naomi of Boaz’s generosity and awaits his final decision.
Themes
Loyalty and kinshipRedemption and covenantWomen's agency in biblical narrative
Keywords
kinsman‑redeemerbarleyloyaltyredeemptionthreshing flooranointing
People
NaomiRuthBoazNaomi’s mother‑in‑law
Places
threshing floorcity
Things
barleywinnowinganointing oilveilsix measures of barleyskirt
Key Verses
  • Ruth 3:10: Boaz’s praise of Ruth’s loyalty and introduction of the kinsman concept.
  • Ruth 3:13: Boaz’s offer to act as kinsman‑redeemer if the nearer kinsman refuses.
Questions
  • What does Ruth’s willingness to follow Naomi’s instructions reveal about her character?
  • How does the concept of a kinsman‑redeemer function within the tribal and social context of the time?
  • In what ways does the act of giving barley symbolize provision and covenant in this passage?
Sentiment

positive
The passage highlights encouragement, mutual support, and covenantal promise.