Ruth 3: Group Study Handout

Overview

Naomi tells Ruth that she will seek rest for her (vv. 1-2). She instructs Ruth to wash, anoint herself, and go to the threshing floor where Boaz is winnowing barley.

Key verse

“He said, “You are blessed by Yahweh, my daughter. You have shown more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, because you didn’t follow young men, whether poor or rich.”

Ruth 3:10 (WEB)

Outline

1. Ruth 3:1–5 Naomi's Plan for Ruth
2. Ruth 3:6–10 Ruth's Approach to Boaz
3. Ruth 3:11–13 Boaz's Response and Condition
4. Ruth 3:14–15 Ruth's Night at the Threshing Floor
5. Ruth 3:16–18 Return to Naomi with Assurance

Discussion questions

1. In v3, what specific actions does Naomi tell Ruth to take before approaching Boaz?
2. What does Ruth say to Boaz in v9 to signify her request for protection?
3. Boaz's words in vv. 10-11: why does he praise Ruth for choosing him over younger men?
4. In v12, why does Boaz mention a nearer kinsman before agreeing to redeem Ruth?
5. When have you taken a bold step, like Ruth at the threshing floor, to seek help or security?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Ruth 3: Proverbs 31, Ruth 2, Ruth 1.

Before next time: read Ruth 4.