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

Wash
The act of washing in ancient Hebrew culture often symbolized purification and preparation for a significant event. In the context of Ruth 3:3, Naomi instructs Ruth to wash herself, which signifies a transition from mourning to a state of readiness for a new chapter in her life. This act of washing can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual cleansing, aligning oneself with God's will, and preparing for His blessings. The Hebrew root word "rachats" implies a thorough cleansing, indicating the importance of being spiritually and physically prepared for what God has in store.

and anoint yourself
Anointing with oil was a common practice in biblical times, symbolizing joy, health, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The Hebrew word "suk" refers to the act of applying oil, which was often used to signify consecration or setting apart for a divine purpose. In Ruth's case, anointing herself was a way to present herself favorably to Boaz, but it also reflects a deeper spiritual readiness to embrace God's plan. This act can inspire believers to seek the anointing of the Holy Spirit in their own lives, preparing their hearts for God's work.

put on your best clothes
The instruction to put on her best clothes indicates a shift from mourning attire to garments of hope and new beginnings. In biblical times, clothing often represented one's status or emotional state. By changing her clothes, Ruth was symbolically stepping into a new role and identity. This phrase encourages believers to "put on" the virtues of Christ, as described in Colossians 3:12, embracing a new identity in Him and being ready to fulfill His purposes.

and go down to the threshing floor
The threshing floor was a place of separation and revelation, where grain was separated from chaff. It holds significant spiritual symbolism, representing a place where God reveals His plans and purposes. Ruth's journey to the threshing floor signifies her willingness to step into God's plan, trusting Him for provision and protection. For believers, this phrase can inspire a willingness to go where God leads, even when the path is uncertain, trusting that He will reveal His purposes in due time.

But do not let him know you are there
This instruction highlights the importance of humility and patience in God's timing. Ruth was to approach Boaz discreetly, allowing him to take the lead in the unfolding of God's plan. This teaches believers the value of waiting on the Lord and not rushing ahead of His timing. It encourages a posture of humility, trusting that God will work all things together for good in His perfect time.

until he has finished eating and drinking
This phrase underscores the importance of timing and discernment in approaching significant matters. Naomi's advice to wait until Boaz had finished eating and drinking reflects a sensitivity to the right moment for action. For believers, this can serve as a reminder to seek God's wisdom and discernment in all things, ensuring that actions are taken in His timing and not our own. It encourages a reliance on the Holy Spirit to guide decisions and interactions.

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.