Ruth 3:3

KJV

Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: [but] make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking.

KJV (with Strong's)

Wash {H7364} thyself therefore, and anoint {H5480} thee, and put {H7760} thy raiment {H8071} upon thee, and get thee down {H3381} to the floor {H1637}: but make not thyself known {H3045} unto the man {H376}, until he shall have done {H3615} eating {H398} and drinking {H8354}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So bathe, anoint yourself, put on your good clothes, and go down to the threshing-floor; but don't reveal your presence to the man until he's finished eating and drinking.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore wash yourself, put on perfume, and wear your best clothes. Go down to the threshing floor, but do not let the man know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking.

American Standard Version

Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the threshing-floor, but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 3:3 captures a pivotal moment in the narrative, as Naomi, her astute mother-in-law, provides Ruth with precise, strategic instructions for an encounter with Boaz at the threshing floor. These instructions—to wash, anoint, dress in special attire, and approach Boaz discreetly after he has finished eating and drinking—are part of Naomi's carefully orchestrated plan to secure a future for Ruth through Boaz, a wealthy kinsman and potential redeemer, within the established social and legal customs of ancient Israel. This verse sets the stage for the dramatic and decisive events that will unfold, highlighting Ruth's obedience and Naomi's proactive wisdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ruth 3:3 marks a significant turning point in the book of Ruth, signaling a shift from Ruth's diligent gleaning in Boaz's fields (Ruth 2) to a proactive pursuit of redemption and marriage. Following Ruth's earlier report of Boaz's kindness and Naomi's recognition of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer, a concept introduced in [Ruth 2:20](/ruth/2-20 "Ruth 2:20 - Boaz as a Kinsman-Redeemer"), Naomi devises a bold yet culturally sensitive plan. This verse initiates the execution of that plan, setting the stage for the dramatic encounter at the threshing floor. It moves the narrative from passive provision to active intervention, highlighting Naomi's strategic wisdom and Ruth's unwavering obedience, propelling the story towards its climactic resolution.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the barley and wheat harvest in Bethlehem, a time of intense communal labor, feasting, and celebration. Threshing floors (Hebrew: *goren*) were large, open, elevated areas, typically on hilltops, where grain was threshed and winnowed by the wind. It was common for landowners, like Boaz, to sleep on the threshing floor during harvest to guard their valuable produce, making it a practical, albeit unusual, location for a private encounter. Naomi's instructions to "wash thyself," "anoint thee," and "put thy raiment upon thee" were not for seduction but signified a transition from working clothes to attire suitable for a special occasion, indicating respect, honor, and a serious intention, akin to preparing for a formal presentation or a wedding. The timing—after Boaz had eaten and drunk—suggests a moment when he would be relaxed and receptive, ensuring discretion and avoiding public scandal or misinterpretation of Ruth's intentions.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several key themes central to the book of Ruth. **Strategic Preparation and Timing** are paramount, as Naomi's detailed instructions emphasize meticulous personal readiness and the importance of approaching Boaz at a moment of receptivity, highlighting that divine providence often works through human wisdom and careful planning. **Naomi's Wisdom and Care** are profoundly evident; despite her earlier despair and self-identification as "Mara" ([Ruth 1:20](/ruth/1-20 "Ruth 1:20 - Naomi's Bitterness")), she demonstrates profound maternal love and strategic foresight, actively working to secure Ruth's future and the continuation of her family line. **Ruth's Obedience and Trust** are also central; her willingness to follow Naomi's unconventional yet wise counsel, without question, showcases her unwavering loyalty and devotion, a character trait previously highlighted in her commitment to Naomi in [Ruth 1:16](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16 - Ruth's Declaration of Loyalty"). Furthermore, the theme of **Redemption** is subtly advanced, as this planned encounter is a direct step towards Boaz fulfilling his role as a kinsman-redeemer, ensuring the continuation of Elimelech's line and the provision for Ruth.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wash (Hebrew, _râchats'_):** From H7364, this verb signifies a thorough cleansing, often with ritual or ceremonial implications, moving beyond mere hygiene. In this context, it suggests a preparation for a significant, perhaps even sacred, encounter, symbolizing a transition from a state of commonness or labor to one of readiness and honor. It is a deliberate act of purification and readiness, setting Ruth apart for a momentous occasion.
* **Anoint (Hebrew, _çûwk'_):** From H5480, the application of oil was a common practice in ancient Israel, used for hygiene, fragrance, and as a sign of festivity, honor, or preparation for special occasions. It elevates the individual, signifying a departure from the ordinary and a readiness for a moment of importance or celebration. It sets Ruth apart for this unique purpose, enhancing her appearance and signifying her serious intent.
* **Floor (Hebrew, _gôren'_):):** From H1637, while literally referring to the threshing floor—a practical, open area for agricultural work—the *gôren* in this narrative takes on symbolic weight. It is a place of labor and harvest, but also of vulnerability and potential new life. It becomes the stage for a pivotal, intimate, yet publicly significant, encounter that will determine Ruth's future and the lineage of a family, a place where the "harvest" of her life will be "gathered."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee":** These initial commands emphasize personal preparation beyond basic cleanliness. They signify a deliberate act of beautification and readiness for a special occasion, marking a transition from Ruth's identity as a working gleaner to one who is presenting herself for a potential marriage and a new status. It speaks to dignity, intention, and a ceremonial readiness for a life-altering event.
* **"and put thy raiment upon thee":** This instruction implies changing from her usual working clothes into more suitable, perhaps festive or formal, attire. It reinforces the idea of a significant presentation, indicating that Ruth is not approaching Boaz as a laborer seeking charity, but as a woman with a serious purpose, preparing for a life-altering event. This change of clothes signifies a change in her posture and the gravity of her mission.
* **"and get thee down to the floor":** This specifies the location for the encounter—the threshing floor. It highlights the strategic nature of Naomi's plan, choosing a place where Boaz would be present, vulnerable (asleep), and where the encounter could unfold with a degree of privacy, yet still within the broader context of the harvest activities. It is a place of provision and potential.
* **"[but] make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking":** This crucial instruction emphasizes discretion and precise timing. Ruth is to remain hidden until Boaz is relaxed and well-fed, suggesting a moment when he would be most receptive and least likely to react with alarm or suspicion. It underscores the careful, non-confrontational nature of Naomi's plan, designed to elicit a favorable and honorable response, avoiding any perception of impropriety.

#### Literary Devices
The verse is rich in **Instruction/Command**, as Naomi issues a series of precise directives, highlighting her authority, strategic foresight, and the meticulous nature of her plan. There is significant **Symbolism** present: the acts of "washing" and "anointing" symbolize purification, readiness, and a transition to a new status, while "new raiment" signifies a change in identity or purpose, moving from a position of need to one of potential partnership. The "threshing floor" itself is deeply symbolic, representing a place of labor, abundance, provision, and the winnowing of grain, which metaphorically aligns with the "winnowing" of Ruth's future and the sifting of her circumstances to yield a new life. The entire scenario employs **Foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at the dramatic and significant encounter to come, and the eventual unveiling of Ruth's intentions and Boaz's character. The discreet approach also hints at the often-unseen, yet meticulously planned, ways in which divine providence works through human agency.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 3:3 offers profound insights into the interplay of human agency and divine providence. Naomi's meticulous planning and Ruth's obedient execution are not antithetical to God's sovereignty but rather the means through which His redemptive purposes unfold. The emphasis on careful preparation and strategic timing reminds believers that while God is in control, He often calls His people to act with wisdom, discernment, and courage, leveraging opportunities with intentionality. This passage illustrates that seeking wise counsel and making thoughtful preparations are vital steps in navigating life's significant transitions, trusting that God will guide and bless our efforts when they are aligned with His will. It also speaks to the importance of presenting oneself with dignity and intention when pursuing important life goals, whether personal, professional, or spiritual, recognizing that our actions reflect our character and intentions.

* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Safety in Wise Counsel")
* [1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - God Looks at the Heart")
* [Ephesians 5:26-27](/ephesians/5-26-27 "Ephesians 5:26-27 - Christ Cleansing the Church")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 3:3 provides a powerful model for how we might approach significant junctures in our own lives, emphasizing both proactive preparation and patient discretion. It encourages us to seek and value wise counsel, recognizing that God often speaks through the wisdom of trusted mentors and elders who possess spiritual insight and life experience. The meticulous preparation Ruth undertakes—washing, anointing, and changing clothes—serves as a metaphor for spiritual, emotional, and practical readiness. Before embarking on a new season or a challenging endeavor, are we taking the time to "wash and anoint" ourselves, shedding old habits, seeking spiritual renewal, and preparing our hearts and minds for what lies ahead? Furthermore, the instruction to wait for the opportune moment ("until he shall have done eating and drinking") underscores the importance of discerning divine timing and exercising patience and discretion, rather than rushing impulsively. This passage reminds us that while God is sovereign, He invites our participation, wisdom, and obedience in the unfolding of His plans, often working through our careful, prayerful, and courageous steps.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Naomi's strategic guidance challenge or affirm your understanding of seeking wise counsel in your own life?**
* **In what areas of your life might "washing and anointing" (preparing yourself spiritually, mentally, or practically) be necessary for a significant step or transition?**
* **When faced with important decisions or opportunities, how do you discern the right "timing" for action, and what role does patience play in your approach?**

### FAQ
**Was Naomi's plan for Ruth morally questionable or manipulative?**

Answer: Within the cultural context of ancient Israel, Naomi's plan, while bold and unconventional, was not considered scandalous or manipulative. The threshing floor, though a private space at night, was also a semi-public place of commerce and community during the day. Naomi's instructions were designed to ensure Ruth approached Boaz with dignity and discretion, not seduction. The goal was to initiate a legal process of kinsman-redemption and marriage, not an illicit affair. Ruth was to make herself known *after* Boaz had settled, ensuring he was clear-headed and could respond honorably. The subsequent actions of Boaz, who immediately recognized his obligation and acted publicly and legally (as seen in [Ruth 4:1-12](/ruth/4-1-12 "Ruth 4:1-12 - Boaz Redeems Ruth")), confirm the integrity of the encounter within the framework of the time, particularly concerning the levirate marriage law (see [Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5-10 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Levirate Marriage Law")).

**Why was the threshing floor chosen as the location for this encounter?**

Answer: The threshing floor was a practical and strategic choice for several reasons. During harvest season, landowners like Boaz would often sleep there to guard their valuable grain from theft, making it a known location where Boaz would be present and accessible, albeit in a relaxed state after the day's work and feasting. While seemingly private at night, it was also a semi-public space, which lent a degree of transparency to the encounter, preventing accusations of illicit behavior. Furthermore, the threshing floor was a place of abundance and provision, symbolizing the very harvest and future security that Naomi sought for Ruth. It was a place where the fruits of labor were gathered, making it a fitting backdrop for the "harvest" of a new life for Ruth.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 3:3, with its emphasis on preparation, strategic timing, and the pursuit of redemption, beautifully foreshadows the ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment. Ruth's meticulous cleansing and adornment before approaching Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer, serves as a poignant type of the Church, the Bride of Christ, who is being prepared and made ready for her union with the Lamb ([Revelation 19:7-8](/revelation/19-7-8 "Revelation 19:7-8 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")). Just as Ruth shed her working garments for special attire, believers are called to "put on Christ" and be clothed in His righteousness ([Romans 13:14](/romans/13-14 "Romans 13:14 - Put on the Lord Jesus Christ"); [Galatians 3:27](/galatians/3-27 "Galatians 3:27 - Clothed with Christ")). Boaz's role as the redeemer, who takes Ruth under his wing and provides for her, points directly to Jesus Christ, our ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, who, though rich, became poor for our sakes, that through His poverty we might become rich ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Sacrifice")). His costly sacrifice on the cross redeems us from the threshing floor of sin and death, bringing us into a new covenant and a secure inheritance ([Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through Christ's Blood")). Ruth's humble, discreet approach and trust in Boaz reflect the posture of faith and humility with which we must approach Christ to receive His saving grace and enter into His eternal rest ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")). Ultimately, the lineage of Ruth and Boaz culminates in King David and, centuries later, in Jesus Christ Himself ([Matthew 1:5](/matthew/1-5 "Matthew 1:5 - Ruth in Jesus' Genealogy")), revealing God's sovereign plan of redemption unfolding through seemingly ordinary human actions.

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

2 Samuel 14:2

And Joab sent to Tekoah, and fetched thence a wise woman, and said unto her, I pray thee, feign thyself to be a mourner, and put on now mourning apparel, and anoint not thyself with oil, but be as a woman that had a long time mourned for the dead:

1 Timothy 2:9

¶ In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

1 Timothy 2:10

But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

Esther 5:1

¶ Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on [her] royal [apparel], and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house.

Matthew 6:17

But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;

Ecclesiastes 9:8

Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.

Psalms 104:15

And wine [that] maketh glad the heart of man, [and] oil to make [his] face to shine, and bread [which] strengtheneth man's heart.