Ruth 3:7-11 tells the story of Ruth's encounter with Boaz at the threshing floor. In this passage, Ruth takes a significant step toward securing her future and the future of her mother-in-law Naomi.
In Ruth 3:7-8, we read that Ruth goes to the threshing floor where Boaz is working and waits until he is asleep. Then, she uncovers his feet and lies down. The text says, "When Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. She came softly, uncovered his feet, and laid her down. It happened at midnight that the man was startled and turned himself; and behold, a woman lay at his feet."
It is important to note that Ruth's actions here may seem unusual or even scandalous in modern times, but they were not necessarily considered inappropriate in the cultural context of ancient Israel. In fact, Ruth's actions were a sign of her willingness to enter into a levirate marriage with Boaz, which was a common practice in ancient Israel.
In Ruth 3:9-10, Boaz wakes up and is surprised to find Ruth lying at his feet. The text says, "He said, 'Who are you?' She answered, 'I am Ruth your handmaid. Therefore spread your skirt over your handmaid, for you are a near kinsman.'" Here, Ruth is asking Boaz to fulfill his duty as a kinsman-redeemer and marry her, thereby providing for her and Naomi.
In Ruth 3:11, Boaz praises Ruth for her loyalty and faithfulness. The text says, "He said, 'Blessed are you by Yahweh, my daughter. You have shown more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, because you didn’t follow young men, whether poor or rich.'"
In this passage, we see the courage and faithfulness of Ruth, who takes a significant risk in going to the threshing floor and lying down at Boaz's feet. Her actions demonstrate her willingness to trust in God's provision and her desire to secure a future for herself and Naomi. Boaz, in turn, praises Ruth for her loyalty and recognizes her as a virtuous woman.
Overall, Ruth 3:7-11 is a pivotal moment in the story of Ruth and Boaz, as it marks the beginning of their relationship and the fulfillment of God's plan for their lives. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's provision and being willing to take risks in order to secure a better future.
Ruth 3:7-11. When Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. She came softly, uncovered his feet, and laid down. At midnight, the man was startled and turned himself; and behold, a woman lay at his feet. He said, “Who are you?” She answered, “I am Ruth your servant. Therefore spread the corner of your garment over your servant; for you are a near kinsman.” He said, “You are blessed by Yahweh, my daughter. You have shown more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, because you didn’t follow young men, whether poor or rich. Now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do to you all that you say; for all the city of my people knows that you are a worthy woman."