What is the meaning of Ruth 3:10? Then Boaz said • The scene shifts to Boaz’s response on the threshing floor, confirming that what Ruth has asked (Ruth 3:9) is taken seriously and with honor. • His immediate words reveal calm leadership, echoing the respectful tone we saw earlier when he greeted his workers, “The LORD be with you” (Ruth 2:4). • Boaz stands as a picture of the “kinsman-redeemer” anticipated in Deuteronomy 25:5-10 and hinted at in Ruth 2:20. He will act, but first he speaks blessing. May the LORD bless you, my daughter • Boaz invokes the covenant name of God, grounding the entire moment in divine authority rather than mere human affection, much like his earlier prayer over Ruth: “May the LORD repay your work” (Ruth 2:12). • Calling her “my daughter” highlights protection and purity (cf. 1 Timothy 5:2), underscoring that his motives are fatherly and righteous. • The blessing echoes the family blessings of Genesis 24:60 and Numbers 6:24-26, reminding us that God Himself is the giver of every good gift. You have shown more kindness now than before • “Kindness” points to covenant loyalty—Ruth’s consistent, sacrificial love first toward Naomi (Ruth 1:8) and now toward Boaz and the family line. • Boaz sees growth: earlier kindness was leaving Moab; this greater kindness is seeking redemption that secures Naomi’s future and preserves Elimelech’s name (Ruth 4:10). • Her character parallels the “noble woman” celebrated in Proverbs 31:10-12, whose goodness increases over time. Because you have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor • Ruth’s choice is deliberate. She could have pursued personal romance or financial security, yet she obeys the familial duty laid out in God’s law (cf. Deuteronomy 25:5). • Boaz, likely older (Ruth 3:10), notes her refusal to chase youthful passion or wealth. This restraint affirms her virtue and faith in God to provide (Proverbs 19:14). • Her example challenges cultural norms: true love seeks God’s will first, not merely age, looks, or status (1 Samuel 16:7). summary Boaz’s blessing frames Ruth’s midnight request within God’s covenant faithfulness. He honors her growing loyalty, purity, and trust—choosing redemption over self-interest. Ruth 3:10 showcases how God uses humble, obedient hearts to advance His redemptive plan, ultimately pointing forward to Christ, our greater Redeemer who blesses all who come to Him in faith. |
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