Ruth 3
Meaning of Ruth 3
Ruth 3 is a chapter in the Bible found in the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament. This chapter tells the story of Ruth and Boaz’s evolving relationship.
After Ruth returns to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law Naomi following the death of Ruth’s husband, Naomi encourages Ruth to seek security and a future. She sends Ruth to a threshing floor at night to see Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband and thus a potential “kinsman-redeemer” (someone who could marry Ruth to continue her deceased husband’s lineage according to Jewish law).
Naomi instructs Ruth to clean herself, wear her best clothes, and lay down at Boaz’s feet while he sleeps. Ruth does as Naomi instructs. When Boaz wakes up and finds Ruth at his feet, he is surprised but also honored that she would choose him out of her possible suitors. He tells Ruth he will fulfill his duty as kinsman-redeemer once he ensures a closer relative doesn’t wish to do so.
Ruth returns to Naomi and tells her about the encounter. Naomi reassures Ruth that Boaz will not rest until the matter is settled.
So in essence, Ruth 3 is about Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her deceased husband’s family. It is also about Boaz’s integrity and adherence to the law.
Ruth 3 kjv
Ruth 3 is a chapter in the Book of Ruth in the King James Version (KJV) of The Holy Bible. Here is a summarized version of Ruth 3:
The chapter begins with Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law, hatching a plan to find a secure home for Ruth so that she may live in prosperity. Naomi suggests that Boaz, a relative and wealthy man, could be a potential husband for Ruth. Boaz is winnowing barley on the threshing floor, and Naomi advises Ruth to wash and anoint herself, dress her best, and go to the threshing floor but not reveal herself until he has finished eating and drinking.
Ruth follows Naomi’s instructions and, when Boaz has finished eating and drinking, he goes to lie at the end of the grain pile. Ruth then approaches softly and uncovers his feet and lays down, to which Boaz is startled awake later in the night.
Boaz then asks who she is, and Ruth identifies herself and asks Boaz to spread his covering over her as he is a close relative (or “kinsman-redeemer”), hence signifying she is asked him to marry her. Boaz is pleased with Ruth’s loyalty and says that he will do all that Ruth asks. However, he mentions there is another kinsman more closely related than him.
Boaz promises to check with this relative to see if he will redeem Ruth, and if not, Boaz promises to do it himself. Before Ruth leaves early in the morning to prevent people recognizing her, Boaz fills her shawl with barley and sends her back to her mother-in-law.
When Ruth tells Naomi all that happened, Naomi advises her to wait until the issue has been settled, confident that Boaz would not rest until he had followed through on his promises. Thus, the chapter ends with anticipation of the resolution in the love story of Ruth and Boaz.
Ruth 3 nkjv
Ruth 3 is a chapter in the New Testament of the Bible, within the Book of Ruth. According to the New King James Version, this chapter contains a pivotal part of the story of Ruth and Boaz.
At the start of the chapter, Naomi (Ruth’s mother-in-law) urges Ruth to seek security and a future by approaching Boaz. Naomi proposes a plan where Ruth will lie down at Boaz’s feet while he sleeps, which is symbolic of requesting him to be her protector or “kinsman-redeemer.” The Hebrew term for such a person is “goel,” someone who, as a close relative, could restore the rights and inheritance that were lost when Elimelech and his sons died.
Ruth, dedicated to Naomi and trusting in her wisdom, agrees to the plan and does as instructed. She finds Boaz sleeping on the threshing-floor, a place where crops were separated after harvest, and lays at his feet.
When Boaz awakens to find Ruth at his feet, he respects her for not seeking a younger man and agrees to marry her if a closer kinsman-redeemer does not want to. He then sends Ruth back to Naomi early in the morning with six measures of barley, a gesture to indicate his willingness to take on the role of the kinsman-redeemer and to show Ruth and Naomi that they will not starve.
In this way, Ruth 3 NKJV explains the cultural traditions of the time as well as a significant moment in the love story between Ruth and Boaz. The chapter also showcases Ruth’s loyalty and bravery, and Boaz’s respect and kindness.
Ruth 3 niv
The book of Ruth, chapter 3 in the New International Version (NIV), is centered around the relationship between Ruth and Boaz.
The chapter begins with Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law, advising her to go to Boaz’s threshing floor at night, uncover his feet and lie down next to him. This was a culturally appropriate way of suggesting marriage. Naomi indicates to Ruth that Boaz, as a close relative, is a kinsman-redeemer and has the obligation to marry Ruth to preserve the name of her deceased husband on his property.
Ruth does as her mother-in-law instructs. When Boaz wakes up in the middle of the night, he is surprised to find a woman at his feet. Ruth identifies herself and asks him to spread the corner of his garment over her as a symbolic gesture of his willingness to marry her.
Boaz is impressed by Ruth’s loyalty and assures her of his willingness to act as kinsman-redeemer should the nearer kinsman-redeemer refuse. He acknowledges her kindness in seeking him as a husband rather than going after younger men. To protect her reputation, he advises her to leave before dawn so that no one will know she was there.
Before she leaves, Boaz gives Ruth six measures of barley as a sign of his commitment. When Ruth returns to Naomi and gives her the barley, Naomi advises her to wait and see how the matter turns out, for Boaz will not rest until he settles the matter that day.
This chapter illustrates Ruth’s trust in Naomi’s wisdom and Boaz’s noble character. Both Ruth and Boaz act with utmost virtue and respect for each other and for the society’s customs. All these events set the scene for the conclusion of this biblical story.
What is Ruth 3 all about?
Ruth 3 is a chapter in the book of Ruth, which is found in the Old Testament of the Bible. This chapter is pivotal in the narrative and highlights the theme of faith, loyalty, and redemption.
At the beginning of Ruth 3, Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law, encourages Ruth to seek a close relationship with Boaz, a relative who was kind to them, so to provide for their financial needs. This plan is based on the concept of a “kinsman-redeemer,” a person’s close relative who, according to various laws of the Pentateuch, had the privilege or responsibility to act for a relative who was in difficulty or danger.
Naomi tells Ruth to go to the threshing floor where Boaz will be sleeping, be cleaned up and wear perfume to make herself noticeable, and to lie down at his feet. Ruth does exactly as advised. Boaz awakens startled and asks who is at his feet in the middle of the night. Ruth identifies herself and requests him to act in his role as kinsman-redeemer.
Boaz is touched by Ruth’s loyalty and blesses her. He tells her that there’s another relative who has a closer familial relation, but if this man doesn’t take the responsibility of the kinsman-redeemer, Boaz is willing to take on this role. Ruth stays until the morning but leaves before it’s light enough for people to recognize each other because they want to prevent possible gossip. She returns to her mother-in-law who asks about the event, and Ruth tells her everything. The chapter ends with Naomi advising Ruth to wait and see what happens, reflecting her own faith and patience.
Ruth Chapter 3 emphasizes the concept of redemption and paints a portrait of Ruth’s faithful commitment not just to Naomi, her mother-in-law, but also to the protocols and customs of Israel.
What does Ruth 3 teaches?
Ruth Chapter 3 is a part of the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament of the Bible, and it offers several key teachings and ideas.
1. Taking Action for Positive Change: Ruth took the initiative to secure her and her mother-in-law’s future. Naomi advises Ruth to approach Boaz for marriage, and Ruth obediently follows the culturally appropriate steps. This chapter encourages readers to take action and seize opportunities.
2. Virtue and Integrity: Ruth approaches Boaz with respect, humility and integrity. Likewise, Boaz’s noble response shows his character. He ensures Ruth’s safety, agrees to her request, and makes sure no one misunderstands her actions or hears gossip about her, illustrating how important it is to live with integrity.
3. The Role of a Kinsman Redeemer: This chapter explains the ancient Jewish law of the goel, or kinsman-redeemer. Boaz is a relative who is in a position to ‘redeem’ or look out for the family’s interests by marrying Ruth and ensuring the continuation of the family line. This points towards a greater spiritual parallel of Christ as our redeemer.
4. Trust in God’s Plan: Throughout, there is a deep confidence in God’s providence. Ruth and Naomi took action, but overall, they did not try to force the situation. They acted with integrity and patience, trusting in God’s plan.
5. Role of Women: The Book of Ruth defies traditional gender norms for biblical times. You see women making strategic decisions (Naomi) and taking initiative (Ruth). This implicitly promotes respect for women.
6. Importance of Faith: Ruth’s faith in God guides her actions throughout this chapter. Even when the future looks uncertain, she remains committed and faithful.
A Sermon on Ruth 3
Ruth 3 is part of the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament of the Bible. It’s a story about faith, loyalty, and redemption set within the social and cultural practices of the time. A sermon on it would likely touch on these themes and explain their relevance to modern believers.
Ruth 3 begins with Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law, advising Ruth to seek shelter under the wings of Boaz, a close relative, believing that he could provide a better life for Ruth. This plan involved Ruth laying at the feet of Boaz in the threshing floor after his day’s work and meal.
Naomi’s intent was to invoke the concept of the kinsman-redeemer, which in the Jewish tradition is a male relative who, according to various laws of the Pentateuch, had the privilege or responsibility to act on behalf of a relative who was in trouble, danger, or need of vindication.
Despite the potential risk and scandalous appearances of such an act, Ruth obeyed her mother-in-law, showing immense faith and trust in Naomi’s wisdom. When Boaz woke up and found Ruth at his feet, he was deeply moved by her loyalty and actions.
The story demonstrates Ruth’s bravery and virtue. Even though she was a Moabite woman, a foreigner in the land of Israel, she displayed extraordinary faith. Boaz, in turn, showed kindness, respect, and generosity, refusing to take advantage of Ruth and promising to do all he could to take care of her.
In Ruth 3, we see the themes of compassion, loyalty, faith in God, and God’s sovereignty at play. A sermon based on this chapter might discuss how believers today can act with similar faith and devotion to God, trusting in his guidance, and showing kindness and grace to others. It also emphasizes the concept of “kinsman-redeemer”, drawing parallels between Boaz and Jesus, both providing protection, redemption, and grace.
Key people in Ruth 3
Ruth 3 focuses on three main characters:
1. Ruth: Ruth is the protagonist of the Book of Ruth. She is a Moabite woman who chooses to follow her mother-in-law Naomi back to Bethlehem after her husband dies. Ruth is noted for her loyalty and faithfulness. In Chapter 3, Ruth goes to Boaz at the threshing floor at night and asks him to spread his protection (symbolized by his cloak) over her.
2. Naomi: Naomi is Ruth’s mother-in-law. After losing her husband and both her sons in Moab, Naomi decides to return to her native Bethlehem. Naomi devises the plan for Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor. She gives Ruth detailed instructions on what to do to win Boaz’s protection and ultimately, his hand in marriage.
3. Boaz: Boaz is a relative of Naomi and Ruth by marriage. He is depicted as a man of wealth, character, and godliness. He takes notice of Ruth’s hard work in his fields and kindly allows her to glean. Upon being approached by Ruth on the threshing floor, Boaz is impressed by her virtue and faithfulness. He agrees to marry Ruth if he is able to redeem her—that is, if a closer relative does not wish to do so.
These are the key players in Ruth 3. The story illustrates their integrity, loyalty, and the strong bonds of family.
Real world examples on Ruth 3
Ruth 3 is a chapter from the Book of Ruth in the Bible. Here, we see Ruth asking Boaz to be her kinsman-redeemer. She does so by uncovering his feet while he is asleep and laying down. When Boaz wakes up, he praises Ruth for her loyalty and promises to do all that she asks.
Real World Examples are not directly applicable as the society and laws have changed over centuries. However, the themes and principles in the chapter may relate to real-world actions or attitudes:
1. Ruth’s Act of Courage: Ruth took the initiative to approach Boaz, a man of noble character, and ask him for protection and support. Today, any act that takes significant courage could be compared to this, such as standing up for others, speaking out about injustice, or taking a risk to improve one’s life.
2. Loyalty: In the chapter, Ruth shows deep loyalty towards Boaz, despite the fact that she could have gone after younger men. This could be compared to any instances of loyalty today, such as dedication to family, friends, or principles.
3. The Concept of Kinsman-Redeemer: This was a cultural practice in which a close relative would take responsibility for the welfare of another relative in dire straits. Today, this could be likened to situations where individuals or organizations step in to help those in need, perhaps through financial support, support for the elderly in the family, or adoption.
4. Community Accountability: When Boaz agrees to act as the kinsman-redeemer, he does so with high respect for the community and the law. His actions are honorable and lawful. This could be compared to people or organizations in today’s world who act with integrity, respecting community norms, laws, and ethical standards.
Remember, the chapter primarily works as a metaphorical teaching within religious context and its direct application in real life may vary.
Brief Explanation of Ruth 3
Ruth 3 is a chapter in the Book of Ruth in the Bible which chronicles the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman, and her dedication to her mother-in-law, Naomi. In this chapter, Naomi advises Ruth to go to Boaz (a wealthy, kind man and a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband) in the middle of the night and lie down at his feet. This action is symbolic and amounts to Ruth proposing marriage to Boaz per their ancient Hebrew customs.
Boaz is touched by Ruth’s loyalty to her mother-in-law and her humility. He accepts her proposal, but he mentions that there is a closer relative who has the first right of redemption. He promises to marry her if that relative chooses not to. Boaz then sends Ruth back to Naomi with six measures of barley as a symbol of his commitment to resolve the issue. That’s it in a nutshell!
Frequently asked questions for Ruth 3
Sure, I’d be happy to help summarize some frequently asked questions pertaining Ruth 3 of the Bible. Here are some usual inquiries:
1. **What is the significance of Ruth’s actions in Ruth 3?**
Ruth demonstrates boldness, faith, and loyalty to Naomi by following Naomi’s advice. She visits Boaz in the threshing floor in the middle of the night, a risky move that could potentially ruin her reputation.
2. **Why did Naomi instruct Ruth to go to Boaz at the threshing floor?**
Naomi believed Boaz, being a relative, was obliged to “redeem” them by marrying Ruth and providing for them, according to the custom of the time. The threshing floor was a place Boaz would be due to harvest season.
3. **Why did Ruth uncover Boaz’s feet?**
Ruth uncovered Boaz’s feet as a symbolic act. In ancient Hebrew culture, it was a way of asking for protection. It’s also believed to be a request for marriage.
4. **What was Boaz’s reaction to Ruth’s request?**
Boaz was surprised but honored. He praised Ruth for her loyalty and promised to do everything he could to protect her.
5. **What is the concept of a “kinsman-redeemer”?**
A “kinsman-redeemer” is a male relative who, according to various laws of the Pentateuch, had the privilege or responsibility to act on behalf of a relative who was in trouble, danger, or need. Boaz acted as this redeemer for Ruth.
Please note that interpretations can vary based on numerous factors, including the specific translation of the Bible being referenced.
Possible References for Ruth 3
The Book of Ruth is a story about a Moabite woman named Ruth, who, after being widowed, remains with her mother-in-law, Naomi. The third chapter of Ruth focuses mainly on two themes: loyalty and redemption.
1. Loyalty and Devotion: Ruth’s actions here reveal her strong sense of commitment and loyalty. When Naomi instructs her to go to Boaz (who is a relative of Naomi’s husband and hence a possible redeemer), Ruth does so without hesitation. This shows her devotion to Naomi and her willingness to obey and honor her.
2. Redeemers and Marriage: During the time this book was written, there was a custom that if a man died without children, his nearest relative (kinsman-redeemer) could marry his widow to continue the man’s family line (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Boaz is such a redeemer for Ruth and Naomi’s family. In Ruth 3, Naomi asks Ruth to go to Boaz and lie down next to him. This act signifies Ruth’s request for Boaz to take on his role as kinsman-redeemer.
3. Boaz’s Integrity: The book also represents Boaz as a man of integrity. When presented with Ruth’s request, he doesn’t immediately take advantage of the situation, but points out there’s a closer kinsman-redeemer than him. This shows his respect for the custom and law.
4. Foreshadowing of the King David and Even Jesus: In Christian interpretations, Ruth and Boaz are the great-grandparents of King David, placing Ruth in the lineage of Jesus. Consequently, this chapter and Ruth’s appeal to Boaz could also be seen as a foreshadowing of the salvation provided by Jesus, the ultimate redeemer.
5. Role of Women and Foreigners: Ruth was a Moabite, a foreigner, which could be a great point of prejudice against her. Yet, her story clearly represents how God could work through anyone (regardless of their background) to fulfill His purposes.
Remember that these interpretations can vary between different religious traditions and among Biblical scholars within the same religion.
Conclusion on Ruth 3
In the conclusion of Ruth 3, Boaz agrees to handle the matter of marrying Ruth, thereby acting as the kinsman-redeemer. He commends Ruth for her nobility in choosing him (an older relative), rather than going after younger men. However, he informs Ruth that there is another relative who has a closer kinship to Naomi’s family.
Boaz pledges to resolve the issue that same day and asks Ruth to remain until morning. Before she leaves in the morning, he gives her six measures of barley, probably symbolic of his intent to care for her needs. Ruth returns home and tells everything to Naomi, who advises Ruth to wait and see how things will unfold.
The conclusion establishes Boaz as a man of honor, integrity, and action. He appreciates Ruth’s move and agrees to marry her if the closer relative declines his right. Thus, this acts as a lead-in to the crucial developments that happen in Ruth 4.