Ruth 3:5

Ruth 3:5 records Ruth's immediate and unequivocal response to Naomi's detailed instructions concerning Boaz at the threshing floor. This short verse powerfully conveys Ruth's unwavering obedience and trust in her mother-in-law's guidance, setting the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan for her future.

Context

This verse comes at a pivotal moment in the book of Ruth. Naomi, having returned to Bethlehem with Ruth, is deeply concerned for Ruth's future and desires to find her a permanent home and security. In Ruth 3:1, Naomi expresses her desire to seek "rest" for Ruth, which implies a secure marriage and home. Her plan, outlined in Ruth 3:3-4, involves Ruth preparing herself and then approaching Boaz discreetly at the threshing floor after he had finished winnowing barley and gone to sleep. Naomi instructs Ruth to uncover Boaz's feet and lie down, a symbolic act that would prompt him to acknowledge his role as a kinsman-redeemer. Ruth's simple declaration in verse 5 is her complete affirmation of this bold and potentially risky strategy.

Key Themes

• Obedience and Trust: Ruth's response, "All that thou sayest unto me I will do," highlights her profound trust in Naomi's wisdom and her willingness to obey, even in a culturally sensitive and unusual situation. This obedience is a hallmark of Ruth's character throughout the book.
• Naomi's Wisdom and Care: The verse implicitly underscores Naomi's strategic thinking and deep care for Ruth's well-being. Her plan, while audacious, was designed to secure Ruth's future within the framework of Israelite law and custom concerning the kinsman-redeemer.
• Faith and Action: Ruth's commitment to act upon Naomi's counsel demonstrates a practical faith. She doesn't question or hesitate but is ready to step out in trust, believing that this path will lead to the promised "rest" and provision.
• Preparation for Providence: While God's hand is clearly guiding events in the book of Ruth, this verse shows how human actions of obedience and strategic planning work in conjunction with divine providence to bring about a desired outcome.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "All that thou sayest unto me I will do" is remarkably concise and direct. There's no hint of hesitation or condition. The word "all" (כֹּל, kol) emphasizes the completeness of her submission to Naomi's instructions, signifying an unreserved commitment to the plan. This simple, powerful affirmation reflects a deep bond of loyalty and respect between the two women.

Practical Application

Ruth 3:5 offers valuable lessons for believers today:

• Value of Wise Counsel: Just as Ruth trusted Naomi's seasoned wisdom, we are encouraged to seek and heed the advice of godly, experienced mentors in our lives. Proverbs 11:14 states, "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety."
• Obedience as a Path to Blessing: Ruth's immediate and full obedience ultimately leads to her marriage to Boaz and her pivotal role in the lineage of David and Christ. This highlights how obedience to wise guidance, especially when aligned with biblical principles, can open doors to God's blessings and purposes for our lives.
• Acting in Faith: Sometimes, the steps we need to take may seem unconventional or require stepping out of our comfort zone. Ruth's example encourages us to act in faith, trusting that God can work through our diligent and obedient actions, even when the outcome isn't immediately clear.