Ruth 3:1-18 Summary

Summary of Ruth 3:1-18:

 

1. The Central Idea of the Text is that Ruth proposes marriage to Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer, and he agrees.
2. At the end of the harvest season, Naomi suggests to Ruth that she pursue a lasting relationship with Boaz and instructs her about how to approach him (Ruth 3:1-4), and Ruth consents (Ruth 3:5). Ruth went to the threshing-floor where Boaz was working and, after he’d eaten and fallen asleep, she came and lay at his feet and uncovered them (Ruth 3:6-7).  Boaz woke in the middle of the night and was startled to find Ruth lying at his feet (Ruth 3:8), who then expressed her desire for Boaz to serve as her kinsman-redeemer (Ruth 3:9), to protect and provide for her as the widow of his deceased relative (see Lev. 25:25; Deut. 25:5).  Boaz was pleased by her request and acknowledged Ruth as a woman of excellence, whose inner qualities appealed to him (Ruth 3:10-11).  However, Boaz recognized there was another kinsman-redeemer whose legal right was greater than his (Ruth 3:12-13).  Being a man of excellence (Ruth 2:1), Boaz promised to quickly pursue the matter (Ruth 3:13b), then advised Ruth to wait until morning, at which time he gave her a large portion of food as a gesture of his good intention (Ruth 3:14-15).  Ruth then returned to Naomi with the good news of Boaz’ reply (Ruth 3:16-17), and Naomi advised her to wait until she hears the news of Boaz’ handling of the matter (Ruth 3:18). 
3. Boaz and Ruth both modeled godly virtues, which are those settled inner qualities which conform to the character of God and are manifest in the thoughts, words and actions of a regenerate person. Some of the virtues that Boaz and Ruth displayed include: A) Commitment to God, His will, and His people (Ruth 1:16-17; 2:11-12; 3:12-13; cf. Rom. 12:1-2; Gal. 6:10). B) A strong work ethic (Ruth 2:7, 3:2; cf. Eph. 4:28; 2 Thess. 3:7-9). C) Compassion for the less fortunate (Ruth 2:8-16; 18; 3:15-17; cf. Jam. 1:27; 1 John 3:17). D) A desire to protect and help the weak (Ruth 2:8-9; 3:10-11; cf. Acts 20:35; Rom. 15:1-2; 1 Thess. 5:14). E) A desire to seek the best interest of others (Ruth 3:1-5; cf. Eph. 4:1-2; Phil. 2:3-4).