READ RUTH 3
GO DEEPER
Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, confides in Ruth her desire to secure a home for her. Recognizing that Ruth would be well cared for in marriage, Naomi encourages Ruth to pursue matrimony. Ruth and Boaz did not engage in modern-day dating practices; instead, they spent time together in group settings. This allowed them to authentically understand each other's character. Unlike the superficial nature of dating, where individuals often mask their true selves to attract others, Ruth and Boaz's approach in the narrative of Ruth 3 presents a valuable lesson for us to glean from, despite its contrast to contemporary dating norms.
Naomi observed Boaz's behavior in a group setting and advised Ruth to have some alone time with him. After Boaz finished eating, Naomi suggested that Ruth should uncover his feet and lie down near them. While some might see Naomi's suggestion as overly bold, it is actually based on an ancient Israelite custom called "goel."
The goel, also known as the "kinsman redeemer," played a crucial role in the family life of Israel. The goel was responsible for the family's welfare, assets, and health. Naomi provides Ruth with explicit instructions so that Boaz can fulfill his obligations as her goel. Upon encountering Ruth, Boaz responds with humility and patience, choosing to wait for her to express her wishes before acting as her goel. The next morning, Boaz sends Ruth home with six measures of barley, demonstrating his consideration and ensuring that she does not depart empty-handed.
Overall, Boaz demonstrates his affection for Ruth in various ways during their initial encounter. He exhibits humility and patience, praises Ruth's virtuous qualities, and takes a deliberate approach in his actions. Boaz prioritizes Ruth's well-being by giving her barley as a gift for Naomi. His behavior serves as a valuable model of love for us to reflect on.
QUESTIONS
1. What insights do you gain about God's nature and humanity from this chapter?
2. Ruth, in chapter 3, requests marriage to Boaz at the public threshing floor. Have you ever needed to ask someone for something important without knowing the outcome?
3. After leaving the threshing floor, Boaz presents Ruth with a gift. What does this gesture reveal about Boaz's ongoing care for Ruth and Naomi?