Welcome back to week six of our study of Ruth. Last week we came to a turning point in the story where hardships and trials turned into blessings and hope. A kinsman-redeemer has entered the narrative and in chapters 3 & 4 we will see what that means for Ruth and Naomi. Before we begin this week’s in depth study of Ruth chapter 3, you might find it helpful to read the entire chapter in one sitting to get an idea of where we are headed this week.
ASSIGNMENT
As we come to chapter 3, the barley and wheat harvests were finished (see 2:23). Here’s an historical note on activities taking place at this time: After the ripened grain had been cut and gathered into sheaves, it was then threshed (the grain was loosened from the straw) by the treading of cattle, the wheels of carts or by the use of sledges. When the afternoon winds came up, the grain was tossed into the air with winnowing forks and the wind blew away the straw and chaff, and the grain fell to the threshing floor. At night someone had to guard the threshing floor to prevent damage or theft of the grain.
READ Ruth 3:1-9.
1. :1-4 – Here we see Naomi take the initiative, where Ruth had taken the initiative in chapter 2. Why do you think there is a shift here? Naomi’s instructions to Ruth may sound strange to us, but they were consistent with the customs of the day. Naomi’s instructions likely indicate that Ruth’s period of mourning is over and it is time to return to the normal activities of life – including marriage. What are some of the dangers with Naomi’s plan?
2. :9 – “Spread the corner of your garment over me…” – In 2:12c, the word “wings” is translated from the Hebrew knap/knaf. That word can also be translated “corners” (as of a garment) – which is what we find in 3:9. This word is found frequently in the Old and New Testaments.
From Thomas Nelson’s Impact Bible Study Series:
At the close of an ancient Hebrew wedding ceremony, the man would draw the corners of his outer garment over the bride’s head, symbolically covering her with his protection. The outer garment or prayer shawl (as it was sometimes translated from the Hebrew, tallit), had an additional meaning beyond functioning as clothing. The four corners of the garment with fringe/tassels are described in Num. 15:37-41.
READ Num. 15:37-41. What was the purpose of the tassels?
Let’s Discuss!
With the historical information provided here, what are some of the possible deeper meanings behind Ruth’s actions and request?
