Ruth 3:15

And he told her, "Bring the shawl you are wearing and hold it out." When she did so, he shoveled six measures of barley into her shawl. Then he went into the city.

Study Bible

And he told her, “Bring the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.”
In the cultural context of ancient Israel, a shawl or cloak was a common garment used for warmth and carrying items. Boaz's request for Ruth to hold out her shawl signifies a gesture of provision and protection. This act symbolizes Boaz's willingness to care for Ruth and Naomi, reflecting the kinsman-redeemer role, which is a type of Christ who provides and protects His people.

When she did so, he poured in six measures of barley and placed it on her.
The six measures of barley represent a generous provision, indicating Boaz's commitment to Ruth and Naomi's well-being. Barley was a staple grain, and this gift would have been a significant amount, ensuring sustenance. The number six, often associated with incompleteness in biblical numerology, may suggest that the full redemption is yet to come, pointing to the future complete redemption through Christ.

Then he went into the city.
Boaz's return to the city signifies his intention to fulfill his promise to Ruth by addressing the legal matters of redemption at the city gate, where such transactions were conducted. This action underscores his integrity and determination to act righteously, paralleling Christ's fulfillment of the law and His role as our Redeemer.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and has come to Bethlehem. Her actions and character are central to the account.

2. Boaz
A wealthy and influential relative of Naomi's late husband, Elimelech. He is a kinsman-redeemer, a role that involves protecting the interests of needy family members.

3. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who has returned to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons. She plays a guiding role in Ruth's actions.

4. Bethlehem
The setting of the account, a town in Judah where Ruth and Naomi have returned during the barley harvest.

5. The Threshing Floor
The location where Ruth approaches Boaz at night, following Naomi's instructions, to seek his protection and provision.

Teaching Points

Generosity and Provision
Boaz's act of giving Ruth six measures of barley demonstrates the biblical principle of generosity. As believers, we are called to provide for those in need, reflecting God's provision for us.

Faithfulness and Loyalty
Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her willingness to follow her instructions exemplify faithfulness. In our relationships, we should strive to be loyal and trustworthy, honoring commitments.

God's Sovereignty and Plan
The unfolding events in Ruth's life show God's sovereign hand at work. Even in difficult circumstances, we can trust that God is orchestrating events for His purposes and our good.

Role of a Kinsman-Redeemer
Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer is a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work. Just as Boaz redeems Ruth, Christ redeems us, bringing us into His family.

Obedience and Initiative
Ruth's obedience to Naomi and her initiative in approaching Boaz teach us the importance of taking action in faith. We should be proactive in following God's guidance in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Boaz's generosity in Ruth 3:15 reflect the biblical principle of caring for others, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Ruth's loyalty to Naomi challenge us to evaluate our own commitments and relationships?

3. How does the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth's account point to the redemptive work of Christ in the New Testament?

4. What can we learn from Ruth's obedience and initiative in approaching Boaz, and how can we apply these lessons in our walk with God?

5. How does the setting of Bethlehem in Ruth's account connect to its significance in the broader biblical account, particularly in the life of Jesus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:25
This verse outlines the role of a kinsman-redeemer, which is central to Boaz's actions in the account of Ruth.

Proverbs 31:10-31
The description of a virtuous woman parallels Ruth's character, highlighting her diligence and loyalty.

Matthew 1:5
Ruth is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, showing her significance in the lineage of Christ.