Ruth 3:2

And now is not Boaz of our kinred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshing floore. Ruth 3:2 (KJV)

And now

is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor. Ruth 3:2 (KJV)

Context: The book of Ruth tells the story of a Moabite woman named Ruth who becomes part of the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ. In Ruth 3, we find Naomi, Ruth’s mother‑in‑law, giving her instructions regarding Boaz, a close relative of their family.

Relationship: Naomi reminds Ruth that Boaz is a relative of theirs. This is significant because in Israelite culture there was a practice called the “kinsman‑redeemer” (goel). According to this practice, if a woman’s husband died without leaving any children, the closest male relative was responsible for marrying her and raising up offspring in her husband’s name. Boaz was a potential candidate for this role.

Boaz’s Activities: The verse mentions that Boaz is winnowing barley on the threshing floor. Winnowing is the process of separating the wheat or barley grain from the chaff, usually done by tossing it into the air to allow the wind to blow away the lighter chaff while the heavier grain falls to the ground. The threshing floor was the location where this process took place.

Symbolism: The winnowing of barley can be seen as a symbolic representation of God’s work of separating the righteous from the unrighteous. In the broader biblical context, the imagery of winnowing illustrates divine judgment and the distinction between the faithful and the wicked. This verse may suggest that Boaz, by engaging in this activity, participates in God’s providential plan.

Ruth’s Actions: Naomi informs Ruth of Boaz’s current activity, providing the foundation for the plan Naomi later instructs Ruth to follow. Ruth is encouraged to approach Boaz on the threshing floor during the night and to lay at his feet, an action that sets the stage for a significant development in their relationship.

Trusting God’s Providence: Throughout the book of Ruth we see God’s providential guidance and care for Ruth and Naomi. Though they faced difficulty, they trusted in God’s sovereignty and followed His leading. This verse hints at the unfolding of God’s plan for Ruth’s future and underscores the importance of obedience to divine direction.

In conclusion, Ruth 3:2 captures an essential moment in the story of Ruth. It highlights the relationship between Boaz and Ruth, introduces Boaz’s potential role as a kinsman‑redeemer, and sets the stage for the events that follow. The passage emphasizes the themes of God’s providence, trust, and obedience throughout the book.