Ruth 3:3-13

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.
13 Stay here tonight. In the morning if he will agree to take care of you, that is good. He can take care of you. But if he does not wish to take care of you, then, I solemnly swear, as the LORD lives, I will take care of you myself. Lie down until morning."

Ruth 3:3-13 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO RUTH 3

In this chapter we have a proposal of Naomi to Ruth, with advice and directions to get Boaz for her husband, Ru 2:1-4. Ruth's obedience to the instructions she gave her, Ru 2:5-7, the notice Boaz took of her, and the conversation that passed between them, Ru 2:8-13 the dismission of her in the morning to her mother-in-law with a gift, to whom she returned, and acquainted her with what had passed, Ru 2:14-18.

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