Ruth 3:3

Therefore wash yourself, put on perfume, and wear your best clothes. Go down to the threshing floor, but do not let the man know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking.

Study Bible

Therefore wash yourself
In the ancient Near East, washing was a significant act of purification and preparation. It symbolized a transition from one state to another, often from mourning to joy or from impurity to purity. In the context of Ruth, washing herself signifies her readiness to move from widowhood to a new phase of life. This act can be seen as a parallel to the spiritual cleansing that believers undergo, as seen in passages like Isaiah 1:16 and Ephesians 5:26.

Put on perfume
Perfume in biblical times was often made from oils and spices, used to anoint and refresh. The use of perfume by Ruth indicates her intention to present herself favorably to Boaz, aligning with cultural practices of enhancing one's presence. This act can be seen as a preparation for a significant encounter, much like Esther's preparation before meeting King Xerxes (Esther 2:12).

And wear your best clothes
The instruction to wear her best clothes suggests a change from mourning attire to garments suitable for a festive or significant occasion. This change of clothing symbolizes a new beginning and hope for redemption. In biblical typology, clothing often represents righteousness or a new identity, as seen in Isaiah 61:10 and Revelation 19:8.

Go down to the threshing floor
The threshing floor was a place where grain was separated from chaff, often located outside the city. It was a place of labor and celebration during the harvest. Ruth's journey to the threshing floor signifies her willingness to step into a new role and seek provision and protection. The threshing floor is also a place of divine encounters, as seen in 2 Samuel 24:18-25.

But do not let the man know you are there
This instruction highlights the cultural norms of discretion and propriety. Ruth's approach to Boaz needed to be respectful and in line with the customs of the time. It reflects the wisdom of timing and the importance of approaching situations with humility and patience, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Until he has finished eating and drinking
Waiting until Boaz had finished eating and drinking ensured that he was in a good mood and more receptive to Ruth's request. This reflects the cultural understanding of hospitality and the significance of timing in making requests. It also underscores the importance of wisdom and discernment in interactions, as advised in Proverbs 15:23.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and to the God of Israel. Her actions in this chapter demonstrate her faith and obedience.

2. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who guides Ruth in seeking security and provision through Boaz, a relative of Naomi's deceased husband.

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

4. Threshing Floor
A place where grain is separated from chaff. It is significant as the setting for Ruth's encounter with Boaz, symbolizing a place of provision and blessing.

5. Bethlehem
The town where Naomi and Ruth have returned, and where Boaz lives. It is also the future birthplace of King David and Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

Preparation and Purity
Ruth 3:3 instructs Ruth to wash, anoint herself, and put on her best clothes. This preparation signifies purity and readiness, reminding us of the importance of spiritual preparation and purity in our own lives.

Obedience and Trust
Ruth follows Naomi's instructions without hesitation, demonstrating trust and obedience. This teaches us the value of trusting wise counsel and being obedient to God's guidance.

God's Provision
The setting of the threshing floor, a place of harvest, symbolizes God's provision. We are reminded that God provides for our needs, often through unexpected means and people.

Courage and Initiative
Ruth's actions required courage and initiative. We are encouraged to step out in faith, trusting that God will honor our boldness when aligned with His will.

Redemption and Hope
The role of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer points to the hope and redemption found in Christ. We are reminded of the hope we have in Jesus, who redeems and restores us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ruth's preparation in Ruth 3:3 reflect the importance of spiritual readiness in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we seek and follow wise counsel, as Ruth did with Naomi, in our daily decisions?

3. How does the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth's account enhance our understanding of Jesus' role as our Redeemer?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to step out in faith and take initiative, trusting in God's provision?

5. How can the account of Ruth and Boaz inspire us to live with hope and expectation of God's redemptive work in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The concept of a kinsman-redeemer is also seen in Leviticus 25, which outlines the responsibilities of a family member to redeem land or relatives in need.

Proverbs 31 describes a virtuous woman, which can be connected to Ruth's character and actions.

The account of Ruth and Boaz foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, as seen in the New Testament, where Jesus is our ultimate Redeemer.