Ruth 3:1

KJV

¶ Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?

KJV (with Strong's)

Then Naomi {H5281} her mother in law {H2545} said {H559} unto her, My daughter {H1323}, shall I not seek {H1245} rest {H4494} for thee, that it may be well {H3190} with thee?

Complete Jewish Bible

Na'omi her mother-in-law said to her, "My daughter, I should be seeking security for you; so that things will go well with you.

Berean Standard Bible

One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, should I not seek a resting place for you, that it may be well with you?

American Standard Version

And Naomi her mother-in-law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 3:1 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, as Naomi, having observed Ruth's unwavering loyalty and diligent labor, transitions from her initial despair to a proactive pursuit of security for her beloved daughter-in-law. Recognizing the opportune time at the close of the harvest, Naomi initiates a strategic plan to secure a permanent home and a settled future for Ruth, encapsulated in her tender question, "My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?" This verse underscores Naomi's deep maternal care and sets in motion the events that will lead to Ruth's marriage to Boaz and the continuation of their family line.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ruth 3:1 serves as the narrative hinge between Ruth's faithful gleaning in Boaz's fields (Ruth 2) and Naomi's strategic matchmaking efforts (Ruth 3). Chapter 2 concludes with Ruth's diligent work and return to Naomi, highlighting Boaz's kindness and the provision he extended. This verse opens Chapter 3, signaling a shift from Ruth's passive reception of provision to Naomi's active orchestration of a permanent solution for Ruth's future. It builds directly on the established relationship between Ruth and Boaz, leveraging the goodwill and favor that has been cultivated, and foreshadows the dramatic encounter at the threshing floor. The question posed by Naomi is not merely rhetorical but a declaration of intent, setting the stage for the climactic events of the chapter.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, a woman's security and social standing were intrinsically linked to her marital status and her place within a family household. Widows, especially those without male heirs, were particularly vulnerable, often relying on the kindness of relatives or the community for survival, as seen in the practice of gleaning. The concept of "rest" (Hebrew: _menuchah_) for a woman in this context primarily referred to the security, provision, and belonging found in a stable marriage and a home where she was protected and cared for. The harvest season was a time of intense labor but also communal celebration, and threshing floors, often located outside the village, became places of activity and sometimes social interaction, making them suitable, albeit unconventional, locations for Naomi's plan.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes of the Book of Ruth. Firstly, it highlights **Naomi's profound and selfless care** for Ruth, demonstrating a maternal love that transcends their initial shared grief and Naomi's personal bitterness (compare [Ruth 1:20-21](/ruth/1-20 "Ruth 1:20-21 - Naomi's Bitterness")). Secondly, the quest for "rest" (מְנוּחָה, _menuchah_) is central, symbolizing not just physical repose but **security, stability, and a settled home** through marriage, which was the primary means of social and economic well-being for women in that era. Thirdly, Naomi's initiative demonstrates **proactive faith and wisdom**, showing that divine providence often works through the thoughtful and courageous actions of individuals. She doesn't passively wait but actively devises a plan, trusting that God will bless her efforts to secure Ruth's future within the covenant community, aligning with the broader theme of God's hidden hand at work throughout [the book of Ruth](/ruth/1 "The Book of Ruth - A Story of Loyalty and Redemption").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rest (Hebrew, _menuchah'_):** This word is far richer than mere physical repose. _Menuchah_ signifies a state of security, peace, a settled existence, and a stable home. In the context of a woman in ancient Israel, it specifically referred to the provision, protection, and belonging found within a secure marriage and family. Naomi's desire for Ruth is not just comfort, but a permanent, stable, and honorable place within society, a place of flourishing and fulfillment of purpose. It implies a cessation of the anxieties and uncertainties of widowhood and destitution.
* **Seek (Hebrew, _biqqaš'_):** The verb "seek" indicates an active, intentional, and diligent pursuit. Naomi is not merely wishing or hoping; she is committing to a deliberate course of action to achieve this "rest" for Ruth. This verb highlights Naomi's agency and determination in securing Ruth's future, moving from a state of passive suffering to one of decisive intervention.
* **Well (Hebrew, _ṭôb'_):** This word conveys a sense of goodness, prosperity, welfare, and flourishing. "That it may be well with thee" encapsulates Naomi's desire for Ruth's holistic well-being—physical, social, and emotional. It speaks to a life that is not just secure but also blessed and thriving, a stark contrast to the hardship and emptiness they experienced upon returning to Bethlehem.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her":** This clause establishes Naomi's authority and initiative. As the elder and the mother-in-law, she holds the position to guide Ruth, especially in matters of marriage and family security. Her speaking marks a significant turning point, moving the narrative from Ruth's labor to Naomi's strategic planning.
* **"My daughter":** This tender address reveals the depth of Naomi's affection and the strong bond that has developed between the two women. It underscores the maternal care Naomi feels for Ruth, treating her not merely as a daughter-in-law but as her own child, for whom she bears a profound responsibility and love.
* **"shall I not seek rest for thee":** This rhetorical question is a declaration of Naomi's unwavering commitment. It implies that it is her duty and her heartfelt desire to find a secure and settled future for Ruth. The "rest" she seeks is the stability and provision of a home and a husband, a fundamental need for women in that patriarchal society.
* **"that it may be well with thee?":** This final clause clarifies the ultimate purpose of Naomi's quest. Her actions are motivated by a desire for Ruth's complete welfare and flourishing. It encompasses not just physical security but also social standing, emotional peace, and the potential for a family and legacy, reversing the tragedy of their earlier widowhood.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Ruth 3:1 is a **Rhetorical Question**. Naomi's query, "shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?", is not posed to elicit information but to affirm her resolute intention and to gain Ruth's assent for the plan she is about to unveil. It functions as a powerful declaration of Naomi's protective love and proactive care, simultaneously engaging Ruth and signaling to the reader that a significant turn in the plot is imminent. Furthermore, there is an element of **Foreshadowing**, as Naomi's quest for "rest" for Ruth directly anticipates the resolution of Ruth's plight through marriage to Boaz, who will provide that very security and a future. The verse also subtly employs **Contrast**, highlighting Naomi's shift from her earlier bitterness and despair (Ruth 1) to a renewed sense of hope and agency, driven by her love for Ruth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 3:1 underscores the profound theological theme of divine providence working through human agency. Naomi's initiative, born out of love and wisdom, is not an act independent of God but rather an instrument through which God's overarching plan for Ruth and the lineage of Christ unfolds. Her seeking of "rest" for Ruth reflects a deep understanding of human need for security and belonging, echoing God's own desire to provide a "resting place" for His people. This verse beautifully illustrates how faithful individuals, acting with compassion and strategic foresight, become co-laborers with God in bringing about His redemptive purposes, even in seemingly ordinary domestic affairs. The pursuit of a secure home and future for Ruth also prefigures the ultimate security and "rest" found in God's covenant faithfulness.

* [Deuteronomy 12:9-10](/deuteronomy/12-9 "Deuteronomy 12:9-10 - God's Promise of Rest in the Land")
* [Psalm 116:7](/psalm/116-7 "Psalm 116:7 - Return to Your Rest, My Soul")
* [Proverbs 31:10-31](/proverbs/31-10 "Proverbs 31:10-31 - The Virtuous Woman")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Naomi's question to Ruth is a powerful testament to the transformative power of selfless love and proactive care. It challenges us to consider how we, too, can actively seek the well-being and "rest" of those entrusted to our care, whether family, friends, or those in our community. True love is not passive; it is observant, strategic, and willing to take courageous steps to ensure the flourishing of others. Naomi, despite her own past suffering, channels her energy into securing a future for Ruth, reminding us that even in our brokenness, we can be instruments of healing and hope for others. This verse encourages us to identify the "rest" or security that others may lack—be it emotional, financial, spiritual, or relational—and to prayerfully and practically work towards providing it, trusting that God often works through our compassionate initiatives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Whom in your life are you called to "seek rest" for, and what practical steps can you take to contribute to their well-being?**
* **How does Naomi's proactive approach challenge you to move beyond passive hope to active, strategic love in your relationships?**
* **What does "rest" truly mean in your own life, and how might God be calling you to find or provide it for yourself or others?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Naomi seeking "rest" for Ruth, rather than Ruth seeking it for herself?**

Answer: The significance lies in Naomi's role as the elder kinswoman and mother-in-law, who traditionally bore the responsibility for securing the future of her widowed daughter-in-law, especially if there were no male heirs to provide for her. While Ruth had demonstrated incredible loyalty and initiative in gleaning, the social customs of the time dictated that a woman's long-term security, particularly through marriage, would often be arranged or facilitated by her family. Naomi, having observed Boaz's kindness and Ruth's favor in his eyes (as seen in [Ruth 2:20](/ruth/2-20 "Ruth 2:20 - Boaz's Kinship")), recognized the opportune moment and her duty to act. This highlights Naomi's love and wisdom, as she strategically plans for Ruth's permanent well-being, moving beyond mere survival to a settled and honorable life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Naomi's earnest quest to find "rest" for Ruth, a place of security, belonging, and flourishing, beautifully foreshadows the ultimate "rest" provided by Jesus Christ, our true Kinsman-Redeemer. Just as Naomi sought a secure home for Ruth through a kinsman, so God, in His infinite love, sent His Son to secure an eternal home and true rest for humanity, who were otherwise lost and without hope. Jesus declares, "[Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus Offers Rest")." He is the one who redeems us from the barrenness of sin and brings us into His family, providing a secure inheritance and a place of belonging that far surpasses any earthly dwelling. Through His sacrifice, Christ fulfills the deepest longing for _menuchah_, offering not just physical or social security, but spiritual peace, eternal life, and a permanent dwelling in God's presence, becoming the ultimate "rest" for our souls, as described in [Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for God's People"). He is the Boaz of our salvation, providing ultimate provision and a secure future.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ruth 1:9

The LORD grant you that ye may find rest, each [of you] in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept.

1 Timothy 5:8

But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

1 Timothy 5:14

I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

Psalms 128:2

For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy [shalt] thou [be], and [it shall be] well with thee.

1 Corinthians 7:36

¶ But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of [her] age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.

Deuteronomy 4:40

Thou shalt keep therefore his statutes, and his commandments, which I command thee this day, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee, and that thou mayest prolong [thy] days upon the earth, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, for ever.

Jeremiah 22:15

Shalt thou reign, because thou closest [thyself] in cedar? did not thy father eat and drink, and do judgment and justice, [and] then [it was] well with him?