Meaning of Ruth 3:3

This verse describes Naomi's strategic instruction to Ruth to present herself to Boaz on the threshing floor after he has finished his celebratory meal. The actions prescribed are not merely about personal grooming but represent a deliberate and culturally significant approach to initiating a proposal for marriage under the ancient Israelite levirate marriage custom, or a kinsman-redeemer scenario. Ruth's obedience to this plan, despite its unconventional nature, demonstrates her deep trust in Naomi and her willingness to engage in a process that could secure her future and that of her deceased husband's lineage. The timing of her appearance, after Boaz has relaxed and enjoyed his feast, is intended to catch him in a more receptive and perhaps less guarded state.

Context and Background

The immediate context is Naomi's desire to see Ruth, her Moabite daughter-in-law, settled and provided for. Having lost her husband and two sons, Naomi is in a vulnerable position, and Ruth, as a foreigner, faces even greater uncertainty. The Book of Ruth is set during the period of the Judges, a time of significant social and political instability in Israel. The concept of the "kinsman-redeemer" (Hebrew: go'el) is central to this narrative. This was a legal and social obligation for a close male relative to redeem the property and/or marry the widow of a deceased relative to preserve the family line and inheritance. Boaz, a relative of Elimelech (Ruth's deceased father-in-law), is identified as a potential go'el. Naomi, recognizing Boaz's kindness and his suitability, devises this plan to bring Ruth to his attention in a manner that aligns with the cultural norms surrounding such proposals.

Key Themes and Messages

• Proactive Faith and Strategy: Naomi, though elderly and seemingly without means, exhibits wisdom and a proactive faith. She doesn't passively wait for a solution but actively seeks to secure Ruth's future through a well-thought-out strategy.
• Dignity and Respect in Pursuit: The instructions for Ruth to wash, anoint herself, and wear her best clothes emphasize the importance of presenting oneself with dignity and respect, even in a situation that might be seen as unconventional. This is not about seduction but about a formal, albeit discreet, presentation.
• Trust and Obedience: Ruth's willingness to follow Naomi's instructions implicitly highlights her profound loyalty and trust in Naomi's guidance.
• The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer: The verse sets the stage for Boaz to act as the go'el, fulfilling his societal and familial responsibilities.
• Diligence and Timing: The instruction to wait until Boaz has finished eating and drinking underscores the importance of opportune moments and careful execution of a plan.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This passage speaks to the importance of wise counsel and discerning action in seeking provision and security. For believers, it can represent the need to be prepared and to act with wisdom when opportunities for advancement, provision, or significant life changes arise. It also highlights the value of seeking and heeding wise advice from those who have experience and a vested interest in our well-being, akin to how Naomi guides Ruth. The careful preparation and strategic timing can be seen as mirroring the need for spiritual preparedness and seeking God's will in our endeavors.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This episode is a crucial turning point in the Book of Ruth, leading directly to the proposal between Boaz and Ruth. Their union is significant because it establishes a lineage that ultimately leads to King David and, through David's line, to Jesus Christ. Ruth, a foreigner, becomes an ancestress of the Messiah, demonstrating God's inclusive plan of salvation and His ability to work through unexpected circumstances and individuals. The concept of redemption, so vital in the Old Testament with the go'el, foreshadows the ultimate redemption offered through Jesus Christ.

Analogies

• A Strategic Business Proposal: Imagine a skilled entrepreneur preparing a meticulous business proposal, choosing the right time to present it to a potential investor after a successful event, ensuring all details are polished and presented professionally.
• Preparing for a Job Interview: Ruth's preparation can be likened to someone meticulously preparing for a crucial job interview, ensuring they are well-groomed, have their best attire ready, and have strategically planned their approach to make the best possible impression.
• Planting Seeds at the Right Time: The timing of Ruth's appearance can be compared to a farmer carefully observing the seasons and soil conditions, waiting for the opportune moment to sow seeds for a bountiful harvest.

Relation to Other Verses

• Ruth 2:11-12: Boaz himself acknowledges Ruth's loyalty and commitment to Naomi, stating, "All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me, and how you left your father and mother and your native land and came to a people that you did not know before. The LORD repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!" This verse establishes Boaz's awareness of Ruth's character and her reliance on God.
• Deuteronomy 25:5-10: This passage outlines the laws of levirate marriage, which provides the legal and cultural framework for the go'el system that is being enacted in Ruth's situation, even if Boaz is acting as a more general kinsman-redeemer rather than strictly a levirate husband.
• Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." This proverb reflects the spirit of Ruth's obedience to Naomi, trusting in a plan that ultimately leads to God's blessing.