Ruth 3:17

And she said, "He gave me these six measures of barley, for he said, 'Do not go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'"

Study Bible

And she said,
This phrase introduces Ruth's report to Naomi, highlighting the importance of communication and accountability in relationships. It reflects the cultural norm of sharing news and developments with family members, especially in matters of provision and protection.

“He gave me these six measures of barley,
The six measures of barley symbolize Boaz's generosity and his role as a provider. In the ancient Near Eastern context, barley was a staple grain, and this gift signifies abundance and care. The number six, often associated with incompleteness in biblical numerology, may suggest that Boaz's actions are part of a larger, unfolding plan. This act of giving also prefigures Christ's provision for His people, as Boaz is a type of Christ, the kinsman-redeemer.

for he said,
This phrase indicates Boaz's intentionality and thoughtfulness. His words carry authority and purpose, reflecting his character as a man of integrity and foresight. It underscores the importance of spoken promises and the weight they carry in biblical narratives.

‘Do not go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.’”
Boaz's instruction to Ruth not to return empty-handed highlights his understanding of Naomi's situation and his desire to bless her. This reflects the cultural value placed on family loyalty and support. The term "empty-handed" connects to Naomi's earlier lament in Ruth 1:21, where she describes returning from Moab empty. Boaz's provision is a direct response to this, symbolizing God's restoration and blessing. This act foreshadows the ultimate redemption and fullness found in Christ, who fills the spiritual emptiness of humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who has shown loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and has come to Bethlehem to seek refuge and provision.

2. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who has returned to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons, and is seeking security for Ruth.

3. Boaz
A wealthy relative of Naomi's late husband, who is a kinsman-redeemer and has shown kindness and protection to Ruth.

4. Bethlehem
The town in Judah where Naomi and Ruth have returned, and where Boaz's fields are located.

5. Threshing Floor
The place where Boaz was winnowing barley, and where Ruth approached him to seek his protection and provision.

Teaching Points

Generosity and Provision
Boaz's actions demonstrate the importance of generosity and provision for those in need. As Christians, we are called to be generous and to care for the vulnerable in our communities.

Faithfulness and Loyalty
Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her faithfulness in seeking Boaz's protection reflect the virtues of commitment and trust in God's provision. We are encouraged to remain faithful in our relationships and trust in God's plan for our lives.

God's Sovereignty and Redemption
The account of Ruth and Boaz illustrates God's sovereignty in orchestrating events for His purposes. It reminds us that God is at work in our lives, even in difficult circumstances, and that He is our ultimate Redeemer.

Cultural and Legal Context
Understanding the cultural and legal context of the kinsman-redeemer helps us appreciate the depth of Boaz's actions and the significance of Ruth's request. It challenges us to understand and apply biblical principles in our own cultural context.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Boaz's generosity in Ruth 3:17 reflect the biblical principle of caring for the poor and needy, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her actions towards Boaz demonstrate the qualities of a virtuous woman, and how can we cultivate these qualities in our own character?

3. How does the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in the account of Ruth point to the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ, and how does this understanding impact our faith?

4. What can we learn from the cultural and legal context of Ruth's time that can help us better understand and apply biblical principles today?

5. How does the account of Ruth and Boaz encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when we face uncertain or challenging circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:9-10
This passage outlines the law of gleaning, which allowed the poor and foreigners to gather leftover crops. Ruth's gleaning in Boaz's field is a direct application of this law.

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
This passage describes the role of a kinsman-redeemer, which is central to the account of Ruth and Boaz.

Proverbs 31:10-31
The description of a virtuous woman in Proverbs can be seen in Ruth's character and actions throughout the book.

Matthew 1:5
Ruth is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her significance in the lineage of Christ.