“And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thy handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman.”– Ruth 3:9 (KJV)
“He asked, ‘Who are you?’ She replied, ‘I am Ruth, your servant. Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer.’– Ruth 3:9 (NLT)
“He asked, ‘What’s your name?’ She said, ‘I’m Ruth, your maid. Spread your cloak over me—you’re my redeemer.’”– Ruth 3:9 (MSG)
What Does Ruth 3:9 Mean?
Ruth 3:9 is a powerful verse that encapsulates themes of love, commitment, and the unfolding of God’s plan through human actions and relationships. In this moment, we witness Ruth expressing her desire for redemptive love from Boaz, who is her kinsman-redeemer. When Ruth approaches Boaz at the threshing floor, she is not merely seeking safety or physical protection; she is laying her hopes for a future on this man whom she admires and respects. The act of uncovering his feet and lying down beside him is laden with cultural significance and speaks to her vulnerability and trust.
The phrase “spread your skirt over me” can be viewed as a request for Boaz to marry her. In ancient Israelite culture, this act symbolized a desire for protection and belonging within a family. It is an invitation for Boaz to take her under his care, acknowledging his role as a kinsman-redeemer. This term refers to a relative who has the obligation to marry a widow of a family member who has died, ensuring the woman’s future and preserving the deceased’s lineage. Through her boldness, Ruth reflects extreme courage and faith in God’s provision, demonstrating that sometimes we need to take significant steps in our lives, trusting that God will guide us through them.
Ruth 3:9 Explanation and Commentary
Understanding the context of Ruth 3:9 requires us to explore the relationship dynamics between Ruth and Boaz. Ruth is a Moabite woman who has endured loss and hardship. After her husband dies, she chooses to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, showing unwavering loyalty. Her journey back to Bethlehem with Naomi signifies her commitment to both her family and God. When she meets Boaz, she experiences a new opportunity for redemption. It’s important to recognize that Ruth’s actions in approaching Boaz are not only a cultural norm but also a display of her trust in God’s providence. Through her boldness, she invites God’s blessings into her life while also acknowledging the conventions of her society.
This moment at the threshing floor is intense and intimate. Boaz had been working hard, and as the men began to rest after gathering the harvest, Ruth takes the initiative following Naomi’s guidance. The noise of the threshing floor would have provided a sense of cover for her soft-spoken request, making it both brave and strategic. By asking Boaz to spread his skirt over her, she expresses a desire for security and stability in the unfamiliar land she now calls home. In doing so, Ruth exemplifies a deep understanding of the cultural context and boldly steps into it, which resonates powerfully with us as we face our own challenges.
As we reflect on Ruth’s plea, we can consider how often we find ourselves in situations where we need to ask for help or step out on faith. There will be times when we may be called to act in ways that feel uncomfortable or outside our norm. In Ruth’s case, God used her courage to weave a larger narrative of grace and redemption. Boaz’s response to Ruth is full of kindness and respect, affirming her choice and leading to their eventual union. This teaches us the value of approaching others with honesty and sincerity, letting them know our needs while also trusting in God’s plan.
Context of Ruth 3:9
To better understand Ruth 3:9, we must explore the events leading up to this significant moment in the narrative. The story of Ruth has its foundation in the time of the Judges, a period when Israel faced disobedience and turmoil. We begin with Naomi, who loses her husband and sons, prompting her return to Bethlehem after years in Moab. Ruth’s loyalties become clear as we see her insist on accompanying Naomi, uttering one of the most beloved passages: “Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16, NLT). This journey symbolizes Ruth’s transformation from a foreigner to a beloved member of God’s family.
Upon their return, Ruth takes on the role of a provider by gleaning in the fields, a remarkable act of hard work and humility. She unknowingly finds herself in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband. Throughout her efforts, we see God’s providence at work, as Boaz notices Ruth’s commitment and kindness toward Naomi. The relationship begins to develop, and Naomi recognizes Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer, hence encouraging Ruth to seek his protection.
This context leads us to the threshing floor scene. Ruth’s actions are not random; they come from a backdrop of sensitivity, faith, and the shared understanding of redemption that defined the lives of the people during that era. Ruth carries with her not just her request for protection but also a plea for connection to the lineage of her late husband and the God she has come to worship. It is a moment of profound significance that shapes the future of not just Ruth and Boaz but ultimately the line from which King David will spring, leading us to the new covenant and Jesus Christ.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ruth 3:9
In this verse, the interaction between Ruth and Boaz is significant and multi-layered. Each part of Ruth’s request and Boaz’s response gives us insight into the gravity of their cultural practices and beliefs. “Who art thou?” Boaz asks. This simple question initiates a profound exchange, highlighting the mystery and anticipation of what is to come. Ruth promptly identifies herself as “Ruth thy handmaid,” a humble self-designation that acknowledges her position and vulnerability.
When Ruth requests Boaz to “spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid,” she uses language that signifies a desire for marriage and protection. This phrase can be likened to the Hebrew concept of a wing or cloak covering someone, which reflects divine shelter and security. In this context, suggesting that Boaz cover her signifies trust on her part and an ultimate recognition that he has the ability to protect and provide for her. The appeal to Boaz’s status as her kinsman-redeemer is crucial; it is not merely a plea for romantic affection but rather an understanding of responsibilities that come from their family connection.
This expression of need precedes Boaz’s affable response, reflecting both grace and moral integrity, as he acknowledges Ruth’s boldness. Instead of reacting negatively, Boaz praises her for her kindness and highlights the catch of her loyalty, not just to Naomi but to the family she is connecting with through her late husband. This dynamic illustrates the beauty of relationships built on faithfulness and commitment, showing us that love often grows out of such principles.
The implications of this moment extend beyond Ruth and Boaz as it echoes God’s overarching narrative of redeeming humanity. It reminds us that our relationships are designed to reflect God’s love and commitment to us as we walk this journey of faith together. This verse showcases how we, too, can encourage one another in our lives and choices, rooted in sincerity and love.
Lessons to Learn From Ruth 3:9
Ruth 3:9 teaches us many important lessons that we can apply in our lives every day. First and foremost, the courage that Ruth displayed is something to aspire to. When faced with uncertainty, she choose to act boldly. Many times, we might find ourselves hesitating to take critical steps in our own lives due to fear or insecurity. Ruth shows us that, with faith and trust in God, we can face our fears and ask for what we need.
Additionally, this verse underscores the beauty of loyalty and commitment. Ruth’s dedication to Naomi and her willingness to carry on her family’s legacy highlight the significance of our choices in nurturing relationships. They remind us that love is an action, often necessitating sacrifice and humility. As we navigate our own relationships, our loyalties should reflect the kind of selfless love that Ruth embodied. It calls us to care for those around us, regardless of the cost.
Lastly, Ruth 3:9 emphasizes the importance of community and kinship. The role of the kinsman-redeemer was vital as it provided safety and security to those in need. We are reminded of our responsibility towards our family and friends, encouraging us to lift one another up when we face challenges. By doing so, we participate in God’s redemptive story, shining lights of hope and support in our own circles. Each of us is called to be a friend, a mentor, and a family member who provides comfort and aid when needed.
Final Thoughts
The depth of Ruth 3:9 reaches far beyond the simple request of a young woman. In a broken world filled with uncertainty, Ruth teaches us about bravery, loyalty, and the profound workings of love that God embodies. Her journey shows us how love can create a beautiful tapestry woven from stories of hardship and restoration. If we take Ruth’s example to heart, we can embrace the challenges in our own lives with faith and a willing spirit. Every step we take in faith can lead us closer to God’s purposes, shaping our futures in ways beyond our vicinity.
Let us reflect on how, just as Ruth sought the protective love of Boaz, we too can seek God’s embrace through our own actions and relationships. It encourages us to remember that even in our vulnerability, we have the potential to invite grace into our hearts and circumstances. If you are intrigued by stories of courage and heart, you may want to explore other passages like Joshua 10:19 or Acts 14:3, which offer encouragement and insights into faith and perseverance.