(REFLECTIONS ON Ruth 3:1-18)

In Ruth 3, Naomi seeks security and protection for Ruth through their kinsman-redeemer, Boaz. A kinsman-redeemer was a close relative who had the responsibility of helping preserve the family line and inheritance.

Naomi instructs Ruth to wash herself, anoint herself, put on her best clothes, and present herself to Boaz at the threshing floor after the harvest celebration.

“When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came secretly, uncovered his feet, and lay down.” (Ruth 3:7)

After Boaz discovered a woman lying at his feet, he asked,

“Who are you?”

Ruth answered,

“I am Ruth your maid. So spread your covering over your maid, for you are a close relative.”

This interaction between Boaz and Ruth is a symbolic request for protection, covenant faithfulness, and marriage. Ruth is asking Boaz to fulfill the role of redeemer for Naomi’s family. Boaz is willing, yet we also learn that there is an even closer relative who must first be given the opportunity to redeem Naomi’s family.

There is also a connection that can be made between Ruth lying at the feet of Boaz and other accounts in Scripture of people at the feet of Jesus in the New Testament. Ruth came to the feet of Boaz seeking redemption and covering. We too come to the feet of Christ, our true Redeemer.

In Gospel of Luke, we read about Martha and Mary welcoming Jesus into their home. While Martha was distracted with all her preparations, Mary sat at the Lord’s feet listening to His word. At His feet is a posture of submission and discipleship.

In Gospel of Matthew, we read about the disciples seeing the risen Jesus:

“And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him.”

At His feet is a posture of worship.

In Gospel of Luke, we read about the sinful woman who came and anointed Jesus’ feet with her tears and perfume, seeking forgiveness. At His feet is a posture of repentance.

Brothers and sisters, just as Ruth lay at the feet of Boaz, her family’s kinsman-redeemer, we too, as followers of Jesus Christ, come to the feet of our Redeemer seeking repentance, worship, and submission in discipleship.

As we worship and pray, may it be done with the same posture of humility and surrender as those who physically sat at His feet. The Lord is our constant source of redemption, cleansing, and salvation when we come before Him in humility, proclaiming that salvation belongs to Him alone. is His.

Pastor Michael Lu
Enduring Word Bible Commentary: Ruth 3