2
Isn't Boaz, whose young women you've been working with, our relative? He will be separating the barley from its husks on the threshing floor tonight.
3
Freshen up, put on some perfume, dress up, and go down to the threshing floor. Don't let him know that you're there until he's finished eating and drinking.
4
When he lies down, notice the place where he is lying. Then uncover his feet, and lie down there. He will make it clear what you must do."
5
Ruth answered her, "I will do whatever you say."
6
Ruth went to the threshing floor and did exactly as her mother-in-law had directed her.
7
Boaz had eaten and drunk to his heart's content, so he went and lay at the edge of a pile of grain. Then she went over to him secretly, uncovered his feet, and lay down.
8
At midnight the man was shivering. When he turned over, he was surprised to see a woman lying at his feet.
9
"Who are you?" he asked. She answered, "I am Ruth. Spread the corner of your garment over me because you are a close relative who can take care of me."
10
Boaz replied, "May the LORD bless you, my daughter. This last kindness--that you didn't go after the younger men, whether rich or poor--is better than the first.
11
Don't be afraid, my daughter. I will do whatever you say. The whole town knows that you are a woman who has strength of character.
12
It is true that I am a close relative of yours, but there is a relative closer than I.