Tyndale Open Study NotesRuth 3

a resting place: Naomi used a similar word in Ruth 1:9 when she prayed for Ruth and Orpah. Now she suggested a plan that might encourage Boaz to help Ruth.

• As a close relative, Boaz might serve as a redeemer for Ruth and Naomi (see study notes on Ruth 2:20; 3:9).

• The threshing floor was a flat surface made of stone or hardened earth. The farmer spread sheaves of grain over it and beat them to separate the grain from the straw. Then the farmer would winnow by tossing the mixed straw and grain into the air with a wooden fork or shovel. The breeze carried the lighter straw and chaff away, while the heavier grains fell back to the threshing floor.

wash yourself: Ruth likely washed herself with a cloth dipped in water. Only wealthy people had facilities for full immersion. Bathing was not a daily routine; it was for special occasions.

Ruth uncovered Boaz's feet to wake him up.

he went to lie down: The owner slept at the threshing floor to prevent small thefts.

was startled (literally He was terrified): Boaz realized a woman was at his feet, but he did not know her identity or reason for being there.

• your servant: Ruth intentionally identified herself with the female workers.

• Spread the corner of your garment over me: This was Ruth's way of asking Boaz to marry her (compare Ezekiel 16:8).

• Ruth appealed to Boaz’s role as a family redeemer (Hebrew go’el) to convince him to marry her (see Ruth 4:5; “The Family Redeemer” Theme Note).

You have shown more kindness: Ruth did not have to go to Bethlehem with Naomi. She was not required to marry into Elimelech’s family or give them an heir to the land (see Ruth 4:5).

whatever you request: Boaz agreed to help Ruth. Some interpreters see Boaz's statement as a promise to marry Ruth (see also study note on Ruth 4:5). Most believe it means Boaz would help Ruth and Naomi by giving the closer relative the chance to act as family redeemer before he did (Ruth 4:1–12). By choosing to be the family redeemer for Ruth and Naomi, Boaz became a precursor to Jesus.

Another man was more closely related to Elimelech than Boaz. He had the first right to act as the family redeemer and, according to most interpreters, to marry Ruth.

six measures: There were two scoop sizes. The smaller measure, the omer, was one-tenth of an ephah (about eight cups or two quarts). The larger measure, the seah, was one-third of an ephah (about 26 2/3 cups or around seven quarts). The larger amount is more likely and shows a very generous gift, twice what Ruth gathered on her first day (Ruth 2:17). It was a significant sign of good faith.