Naomi’s instructions to Ruth may seem odd but they are designed to secure Boaz as their kinsman-redeemer. The kinsman-redeemer would be able to buy the property that had belonged to Elimelech so his family would maintain their inheritance in the Promised Land (Lev. 25:25ff). In addition he had to marry Ruth, the widow of his kinsman to raise up children in the deceased’s name (Deut. 25:5-10). Boaz could fulfill the requirements but because he was so humble, he did not put himself forward. It was up to Ruth to make the marriage proposal which, of course, was not her place. Thus her actions have sexual overtones, but they are actually her way of asking Boaz to marry her and fulfill his duty as kinsman-redeemer.
What Ruth did placed both her and Boaz in jeopardy. After all, there on the isolated threshing floor in the dark of night, who would know what happened? If they had been caught, their reputations as godly people would be tarnished even though nothing sinful occurred. Boaz was righteous and would never do anything sinful. He resisted the strong temptation Ruth presented. Yet he was deeply blessed by her kindness since he was quite a bit older than she. He accepted her proposal and pledged to fulfill his promise with great haste.
The story of Ruth and Boaz is a type or symbol of our own redemption. We, like Ruth go to the Lord in the midst of our need and express to Him our inability to save ourselves. We place ourselves at His feet to plead for mercy. He reaches out to us and covers us with His mantle of protection. We collectively as the Church become His bride.
Comments