Naomi's Wrath Chapter Summaries

Chapter 3- Loyalty and Commitment Up until this point we can see that Naomi certainly feels as though God has abandoned her as she is without protection having lost her husband and sons. Once in Bethlehem it seems that their worries take on a more serious tone as they are without basic provision. Initially Ruth was to stay by Naomi’s side and provide for her in any way she could. Then Naomi heard about a wealthy kinsman [ ] name Boaz of her late husband. (Elimelech) So, Naomi devised a plan, so that Boaz would take notice of Ruth and marry her and live happily ever after. Naomi could tell from Ruth's report that Boaz with his character just might the answer for Ruth. Naomi is seeking security for Ruth, (3:1:5NIV) Ruth seeks permission

Naomi says, “When you reach the threshing floor keep yourself from him until after he has finished eating and drinking.” (Ruth 3:8 NIV) Naomi gives Ruth specific guidelines and at first the plan seems deceitful but no so because it appears that Naomi is securing a private moment so there is no disturbances. McKeown points out that Midrash “finds a nobler reason” for Boaz sleeping on the threshing floor-he wanted to avoid it being used for immoral purposes.” [4]As he had lain down at the end of the heap of grain, Ruth gently uncovered his feet and lay down. (Ruth 3:4:7 NIV) Boaz it appears chose to sleep and protect his grains because

R. G. Beatty writes that “Boaz can now at this time claim Ruth, however, there is a legality that is demonstrated which The Book of Ruth describes as a strange "shoe ceremony" involving the go'el [redeemer] who rejected his role of redeeming Ruth's dead husband's property:[8]

At last this union has taken place and all tension is gone, Ruth gives birth in 4:13 to Obed, as James McKeown points out, “all children are a gift from God, but one should remember that Ruth was married to Mahlon for ten years without having a child.”[9] God no doubt has placed His divine intervention to further the special line of descendants that would lead to King David. McKeown further states that God has not left their side and the story that begins in Genesis is continued through this union with Boaz and Naomi.

The book of Ruth ends with a genealogy. This genealogy informs us about the greater significance of Ruth within the Bible. God’s providential work in the lives of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz did not just affect them, but rather held remarkable implications for all believers.

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5. James McKeown, pg.