The Book of Ruth: The Direction of the Relationship

In the text of Ruth 3:1–18, Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law, recognizes the need to find a secure and happy future for Ruth, namely a husband. She tells her about Boaz, a relative, who that evening is winnowing barley at the threshing floor after the harvest. Naomi suggests to Ruth a strategy to approach Boaz.

The strategy proposed by Naomi is as follows:

1. Ruth should wash, anoint herself with perfume, and put on her best clothes to present herself in the best possible way.

2. Ruth should wait until Boaz has finished eating and drinking before approaching him.

3. Once Boaz has lain down, Ruth should quietly approach, uncover his feet, and lie down.

The choice to uncover Boaz’s feet may have had a symbolic meaning, as in those times it could have been an expression of submission or a request for protection.

During the night, Boaz wakes up and finds Ruth lying beside him. Ruth asks him to redeem her, since he is her closest relative. Boaz recognizes Ruth’s loyal gesture and promises to do all that is necessary. However, Boaz reveals that there is a nearer kinsman than he, and if that man does not wish to redeem Ruth, then Boaz himself will do it.

Boaz gives Ruth about twenty kilograms of barley to take home, showing generosity and concern for her. Ruth returns to Naomi and tells her everything. Naomi advises her to wait and see how things will unfold, confident that Boaz will do all he can to resolve the matter.

The story highlights the crucial moment when Ruth and Boaz face the definition of their relationship and the possibility of a future commitment. Naomi’s wisdom in this context shows the importance of navigating such decisions carefully and approaching them with respect and prudence.

Chapter 3 of the Book of Ruth

We further explore the concept of receiving confirmations and encouragements in relationships, as well as the seemingly unusual strategy Naomi proposed to Ruth.

The importance of receiving confirmations:  Receiving confirmation from others—especially from those who love us and know us well—can be a valuable indicator of the validity of a relationship. The perspective of friends and family often provides an external angle that can highlight aspects of the relationship we may not fully see or evaluate ourselves. However, it is essential to balance these opinions with one’s own intuition and personal discernment, since every relationship is unique and complex.

Approval and sexual relationships:  The importance of obtaining the approval of those close to us is emphasized, and this can include the wise guidance of parents, close friends, or trusted figures. Furthermore, the mention of premarital sexual relationships highlights the moral and spiritual aspect of relational decisions. The biblical perspective on sexuality as a divine gift within the context of marriage is underlined, and the advice is to be cautious about premarital intimacy, which could cloud judgment and important decisions.

Naomi’s advice to Ruth:  Naomi’s counsel for Ruth to wash, anoint herself, and put on her best cloak can be seen as both symbolic and practical preparation. Washing may represent purification, anointing with perfume could symbolize attractiveness, and wearing the best cloak suggests presenting oneself in the best possible light. These instructions may be understood as a strategy to place Ruth in the ideal position to approach Boaz.

Kinsman-redeemer and insecurities:  The introduction of the concept of the kinsman-redeemer adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. Boaz is presented as a potential redeemer in Ruth’s life, meaning he could provide protection, provision, and spiritual guidance. The mention of men’s insecurities suggests that, despite his social and moral standing, Boaz may have needed encouragement or clear signals from Ruth to move forward in their relationship.

In conclusion, this passage of Ruth’s story highlights the importance of receiving wise counsel and encouragement from those close to us in relationships. It also underscores the delicacy and importance of preparing oneself properly to face crucial life situations, such as advancing a meaningful relationship.

Continuing the narrative, we see that Ruth follows Naomi’s advice and, having carefully prepared herself, approaches Boaz as he lies asleep at the end of the heap of grain. The scene is significant because Ruth, with respect and attentiveness, uncovers his feet and lies down at them. When Boaz awakens and discovers her, Ruth makes a declaration that reveals her understanding of the law of redemption.

The right of redemption was a legal concept in ancient Israel that gave the nearest relative the right and privilege to redeem a person in difficulty. In this case, Ruth, widow of Boaz’s relative, tests him by asking if he wishes to exercise his right of redemption toward her.

It is noteworthy that Ruth does not propose herself explicitly, but rather places herself in a position that suggests the opportunity for Boaz to act as redeemer. This could be interpreted as a wise way to encourage Boaz to make a clear decision about their relationship.

Finally, Boaz responds with words of blessing and recognition of Ruth’s virtue. He promises to do all that she has asked and affirms that everyone knows her virtue and noble character. This marks a turning point in the plot, as the relationship between Boaz and Ruth now becomes clearer and more defined.

The story of Ruth thus offers lessons on honor, purity, and respect in relationships, while also showing how, despite human imperfections, God can still work in people’s lives. The plot unfolds through Naomi’s wisdom, Ruth’s perseverance, and Boaz’s integrity, demonstrating how people’s actions and decisions can contribute to a greater plan of redemption and love.

Boaz, recognizing that there is a nearer relative with the legal right of redemption over Ruth, wisely faces this challenge. Instead of ignoring the obstacle or seeking shortcuts, Boaz chooses to handle the situation with honesty and integrity. He proposes that Ruth stay the night and wait until morning, when he would seek to resolve the matter with the nearer kinsman.

The principle expressed—“if a man does everything it takes to win you, that man will continue to do everything it takes to keep you”—reflects the importance of consistency and commitment in relationships. Boaz demonstrates his seriousness and his desire to have Ruth with him in the most just and lawful way possible. This principle underscores that the initial commitment in a relationship must be supported by consistent actions over time.

Boaz, while acknowledging the legal obstacle, strongly affirms his commitment to Ruth and his desire to do all he can to make her his own. This consistency in action is fundamental to building and maintaining a healthy and lasting relationship.

Through moments such as these, the story of Ruth conveys valuable lessons on how to face challenges in relationships, showing that clarity, honesty, and commitment are essential to overcoming obstacles and building strong bonds.

Key Lessons from the Story of Ruth and Boaz

1. Be in the Right Place: It is wise to position oneself strategically to increase the likelihood of meeting the right person. For believers, this means being present where other believers are: church, gatherings of Christian friends, celebrations, conferences, and so on.

2. Do Not Overlook Who Is in Front of You: The special person you are seeking may be right in front of you. Opening your eyes to immediate opportunities around you is important to recognize the potential of a relationship.

3. Pursue What You Seek: Sometimes it is necessary to take initiative and pursue what you desire. Ruth showed determination in her pursuit of Boaz, and even if we do not always act perfectly, God can use it for our good.

4. God Works All Things for Good: Even if relationships do not begin in the best way or on solid foundations, God is a God of redemption and forgiveness. He can use even imperfect situations for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purposes.

5. Live a Life that Honors God Today: If you desire a marriage that honors God in the future, live a life that honors Him today. Do not postpone serving and worshiping God with your life and choices to some future moment.

Finally, the story of Ruth and Boaz shows how individual decisions led to a significant outcome, culminating in the coming of the Savior through the genealogy of Obed. Similarly, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Redeemer, is an extraordinary demonstration of love that opens the door to salvation for all who believe in Him.