Ruth: Chapter 3

Recap

In our previous study, we continued to trace the story of Ruth. After pledging herself to Naomi following the death of their husbands, Ruth travelled far from her home in Moab to the land of Israel. She left her home, her people, her gods, and her family to follow Naomi into the unknown and uncertain.

But God provided through the law. Foreigners and Widows were to be given the opportunity of meaningful work gleaning in the fields of Israel. And it just so happened that a relative of Naomi owned the field where Ruth gleaned. Boaz saw Ruth and gave his servants instructions to provide extra for Ruth and to ensure she and the other women were not harmed.

God’s hand seems to be at work behind the scenes, providing for Ruth and Naomi through the Law being rightly followed and through Boaz being an upright and generous man.

Introduction

In chapter 3, Naomi hatches a plan to extend the provision and protection that Ruth has received at Boaz’s hand. She instructs Ruth to take a courageous and yet very risky action. Ruth is to change out of her clothes of mourning and into the clothes of a bride. She is to go and seek protection by presenting herself vulnerably to Boaz, and trust that he is as kind and noble as she believes him to be.

As we read this story, it is important not to forget how dangerous a thing Ruth was doing. The book of Judges repeatedly shows how terrible the treatment of women had become in Israel. Ruth’s action leaves her open to potential abuse, yet she boldly pursues this action with trust that it will turn out well for her and through her for Naomi.

We also see something amazing in this chapter: Boaz begins to be the answer to his own prayer. In the previous chapter, Boaz declared, “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!” As we read chapter 3, keep these words top of mind.

[Read the passage out loud]

Three Quick Questions

1. Did anything stand out for you in the passage? (Look for repetition & contrasts)

2. Did you learn anything new or surprising about Jesus or God’s character?

3. Are there other stories or passages in Scripture that this passage might be referencing?

Why do you think the authors are connecting these passages?

Digging Deeper

1. In Ruth 3:1–4, Naomi outlines a plan for Ruth.
   What risks does her plan involve?
   What do you think Naomi hopes to accomplish?
   

2. Note about uncovering Boaz’s feet - throughout Christian scholarship, many writers and commentators debate what exactly it means that “Ruth uncovered Boaz’s feet.” Many writers highlight that it seems rather euphemistic and sexual in nature. Though we can not be sure exactly what happened, it is clear that the author wants us to notice the character and integrity of Boaz; Ruth, in vulnerability, came to him, but he did not take advantage of her; he treated her with care, tenderness, and dignity.
   How might we follow Boaz’s example in our lives today?
   

3. When Boaz awakes, Ruth says, "Spread your wings (or the corner of your garment) over your servant, for you are a redeemer" (3:9). This echoes Boaz's prayer in 2:12 that Ruth would find refuge under God's wings.
   Why do you think the author intentionally repeats this imagery?
   What do you think this reveals about how God works through human faithfulness?
   

4. What does this chapter teach us about the nature of redemption?
   How does it deepen our understanding of God's redeeming work?
   

5. What does Ruth 3 teach us about living faithfully when God's purposes are not yet fully visible?
   

6. In your life, are there places that call for bold yet risky faithfulness? Take some time to share and spend some time praying for wisdom and the leading of the Spirit in these things.