Question 1

What does Naomi mean by seeking rest for Ruth in this passage?

Accepted Answer

When Naomi speaks of seeking “rest” for Ruth, she is talking about a settled, secure life that would come through a good marriage. Both women were widows and had been living in a very uncertain situation, depending on gleaning in the fields. By pointing Ruth to Boaz, a kind relative, Naomi wants her to have a home, protection, and provision. In their culture, a husband brought stability and honor. So “rest” here is not laziness, but the peace of being cared for and having a place where life can be “well” with her.

Question 2

Why did Naomi tell Ruth to wash, anoint herself, and go to the threshing floor?

Accepted Answer

Naomi’s instruction for Ruth to wash, use oil, and put on her clothes was preparation for a serious, respectful request, not for seduction. Ruth was going to Boaz to ask him to act as a kinsman-redeemer, which involved marriage and family duty. Being clean and presentable showed respect for Boaz and for the importance of what she was asking. Going to the threshing floor at night followed local customs, when Boaz would be resting after the harvest work, and they could speak privately about this family matter.

Question 3

What does Ruth mean when she asks Boaz to spread his skirt over her?

Accepted Answer

When Ruth asks Boaz to “spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid,” she is asking him to take her under his protection as a husband. The edge of a garment could picture a person’s care and covering. Ruth is not being forward for selfish gain; she is humbly reminding Boaz that he is a near relative who can redeem the family. Her words are a modest way of saying, “Will you marry me according to our family law and take responsibility for me?” It is a request for lawful, protective love, not a sinful act.

Question 4

Why is Boaz called a kinsman-redeemer, and what did that involve?

Accepted Answer

Boaz is called a near kinsman because he is a close relative of Naomi’s late husband. In Israel, such a man could act as a redeemer by marrying a widow, keeping land in the family, and raising children in the name of the deceased. This protected the weak and kept family lines from dying out. Boaz takes this seriously. He first mentions there is an even closer relative, showing he wants to follow God’s order. If that man refuses, Boaz promises to take Ruth himself, binding his word with an oath before the Lord.

Question 5

Why did Ruth lie at Boaz’s feet, and why is this scene not inappropriate?

Accepted Answer

Ruth lying at Boaz’s feet can sound strange now, and some find the scene difficult. But in the story it is an act of humble request, not sexual sin. She uncovers his feet so he will wake up and notice her, then lies there as a servant at her master’s feet. When Boaz wakes, she clearly states her purpose: she is his handmaid asking him to spread his garment over her as a redeemer. Boaz praises her as a virtuous woman, protects her reputation, and sends her away before dawn. His words and actions show that both behaved honorably.

Question 6

Why does Boaz praise Ruth for not following young men, whether poor or rich?

Accepted Answer

Boaz sees that Ruth could have chased after younger men for her own comfort or gain, whether they were poor or wealthy. Instead, she chose to seek marriage within her late husband’s family, through Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer. This shows she cares about family duty, Naomi’s wellbeing, and God’s way, more than romance or money. Boaz calls this “kindness” and says she is showing even greater loyalty now than when she first left her own country to care for Naomi. Her choice reveals deep faithfulness and steady character.

Question 7

What does it mean that all the people know Ruth is a virtuous woman?

Accepted Answer

When Boaz says that all the city knows Ruth is a virtuous woman, he is talking about her reputation. People in Bethlehem had watched her work hard in the fields, stay close to Naomi, and behave modestly. They knew she was not lazy, greedy, or careless with men. So when she comes to Boaz at night, he does not assume evil. He sees her actions in light of her known character. This shows how a godly, consistent life can protect a person’s name, and how honor is built over time through daily choices.

Question 8

Why did Boaz give Ruth six measures of barley before she left?

Accepted Answer

Boaz sends Ruth home with six measures of barley as a gift and a message. He does not want her to go back to Naomi “empty,” just as earlier God had not left them empty in the fields. The grain shows his kindness and hints at his intent to care for them more fully if things work out. It also gives Ruth something clear to tell Naomi: Boaz is taking this seriously and will act. The gift is both practical help for their needs and a sign that he respects them and values this matter.

Question 9

How does this passage show God’s quiet providence in ordinary life?

Accepted Answer

This passage never states a miracle, yet God’s care is present in every detail. Naomi just “happens” to have a kind relative like Boaz. The harvest gives food and brings Ruth into his field. Ruth’s loyalty, Boaz’s integrity, and Naomi’s guidance all fit together so that family duty and love move forward. Even the law about a kinsman-redeemer becomes a path of mercy for two widows. God is working through normal events, character, and choices. It shows that God can guide and provide through everyday situations as people walk in faith and obedience.

Question 10

How can believers today apply the example of Ruth and Boaz in this chapter?

Accepted Answer

Believers can take several lessons from this chapter. Ruth shows humble obedience, hard work, and care for family, even when life is hard. Naomi models loving concern in trying to secure Ruth’s good in a wise, lawful way. Boaz shows how to treat others with respect, purity, and fairness, especially when you hold power. Their story encourages us to value character in relationships, to honor family responsibilities, and to trust that God can work through ordinary steps of faith, even when we cannot yet see how things will turn out.

Ruth 3:1

Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?

Ruth’s Redemption Assured

Ruth’s Redemption Assured

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Ruth 3:1

Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?

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Ruth’s Redemption Assured

Ruth’s Redemption Assured

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