Ruth 3:8

And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet.

And it came to pass at midnight {H2677}{H3915}, that the man {H376} was afraid {H2729}, and turned {H3943} himself: and, behold, a woman {H802} lay {H7901} at his feet {H4772}.

In the middle of the night the man was startled and turned over, and - there was a woman lying at his feet!

At midnight, Boaz was startled, turned over, and there lying at his feet was a woman!

And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself; and, behold, a woman lay at his feet.

Commentary

Ruth 3:8 (KJV) describes a pivotal moment at the threshing floor, where Boaz, a wealthy and respected kinsman, discovers Ruth lying at his feet in the dead of night. This verse marks the dramatic culmination of Naomi's strategic plan to secure a future for Ruth.

Context

Following a difficult period of widowhood and famine, Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, devises a bold plan for Ruth to appeal to Boaz, a close relative and potential kinsman-redeemer. Ruth, demonstrating immense loyalty and obedience to Naomi (Ruth 1:16), goes to the threshing floor where Boaz is winnowing barley and sleeps. As instructed by Naomi (Ruth 3:4), Ruth uncovers Boaz's feet and lies down, a symbolic act of submission and a plea for him to "spread his skirt over her," signifying protection and marriage.

Key Themes

  • The Kinsman-Redeemer (Goel): This passage highlights the ancient Israelite custom of the kinsman-redeemer, a relative who had the responsibility to buy back family land, pay debts, or marry a childless widow to perpetuate the family line. Boaz is introduced as such a figure (Ruth 2:20), and Ruth's action is a direct appeal for him to fulfill this role.
  • Surprise and Integrity: Boaz's reaction—"the man was afraid, and turned himself"—indicates his sudden awakening and surprise at finding a woman there. His subsequent actions throughout the night and the following day demonstrate his remarkable integrity and concern for Ruth's reputation, rather than taking advantage of the vulnerable situation.
  • Divine Providence and Faithfulness: While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the entire book of Ruth showcases God's sovereign hand guiding the seemingly ordinary events to bring about His purposes. Ruth's humble faithfulness and Boaz's righteous character are instrumental in this unfolding plan.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "afraid" is charadah (חרדה), which can mean more than just terror. It often implies a sudden startle, trembling, or alarm, fitting Boaz's unexpected discovery at midnight. It conveys his abrupt shift from sleep to a state of heightened awareness, not necessarily one of fear in a negative sense, but perhaps awe or bewilderment at the situation.

Practical Application

Ruth 3:8 reminds us of the importance of character and integrity, even in challenging or compromising situations. Boaz's noble response to Ruth's appeal serves as an example of how to act with honor and care for others, especially the vulnerable. It also underscores the theme of seeking redemption and protection, mirroring the spiritual redemption offered through Christ, our ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, who covers us with His grace and protection, much like Boaz's willingness to cover Ruth (Ephesians 1:7).

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.