What does Ruth 3:8 mean?
"¶ And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet." - Ruth 3:8
Ruth 3:8 (KJV) - "And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet."
The book of Ruth, found in the Old Testament, is a story of loyalty, love, and faithfulness. This particular verse takes place in the middle of the narrative, as Ruth goes to the threshing floor where Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer, is sleeping. This verse is a pivotal moment in the story, as it sets the stage for the rest of the events that unfold.
The verse begins with "And it came to pass at midnight," which immediately sets the scene for a mysterious and unexpected turn of events. Midnight is often associated with darkness and uncertainty, and in this context, it represents the unknown future that Ruth is facing. As she approaches Boaz in the darkness of night, she is taking a risk and stepping into unfamiliar territory. This is a reflection of the risks and uncertainties that we all face in our own lives, and the courage it takes to step into the unknown.
The verse continues with "that the man was afraid, and turned himself," which reveals Boaz's initial reaction to finding Ruth at his feet. His fear may be interpreted as surprise or confusion, as he is taken off guard by Ruth's presence. It also indicates his concern for Ruth's safety and well-being, as it was dangerous for a woman to be out alone at night. Boaz's fear highlights the societal norms and dangers that women faced in ancient times, and the importance of protection and care for those who are vulnerable.
The verse concludes with "and, behold, a woman lay at his feet," which emphasizes the physical proximity between Ruth and Boaz. This act of lying at his feet was a culturally significant gesture, as it symbolized Ruth's humility, submission, and request for protection. It also demonstrates her trust in Boaz as her kinsman-redeemer, and her willingness to take a bold step towards securing her future. This act of laying at his feet also symbolizes Ruth's willingness to serve and honor Boaz, showing her humility and respect for him.
In a broader context, this verse can also be seen as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and his followers. The act of Ruth laying at Boaz's feet can parallel the act of believers surrendering themselves to Christ and seeking his protection and guidance. Just as Ruth trusted Boaz to provide for her, Christians trust in Christ to provide for their needs and lead them on the right path.
Overall, Ruth 3:8 is a pivotal verse in the story of Ruth, as it represents the courage and vulnerability of Ruth, the protective nature of Boaz, and the themes of loyalty and faithfulness. It also serves as a reminder of the risks and uncertainties that we all face in life, and the importance of trusting in God's provision and guidance.
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Ruth 3:8 - "¶ And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet."
"¶ And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet." - Ruth 3:8
Ruth 2:8 - "Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens:"
Ruth 3:9 - "And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman."
Ruth 2:3 – "So she went out, entered a field and began to glean behind the harvesters."
Ruth 1:3 - "And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons."
Ruth 3:1 - "Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?"
Ruth 3:5 - "And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do."
Ruth 4:8 - "Therefore the kinsman said unto Boaz, Buy it for thee. So he drew off his shoe."
Ruth 3:12 - "And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I."
Ruth 3:6 - "¶ And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her."
Ruth 3:2 - "And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor."
Ruth 3:17 - "And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law."
Ruth 4:3 - "And he said unto the kinsman, Naomi, that is come again out of the country of Moab, selleth a parcel of land, which was our brother Elimelech's:"
Ruth 3:3 - "Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking."
Ruth 2:3 - "And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the kindred of Elimelech."
"And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I." - Ruth 3:12
"Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens:" - Ruth 2:8
"Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day." - Ruth 3:18
"And when she came to her mother in law, she said, Who art thou, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done to her." - Ruth 3:16
Ruth 3:11 - "And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman."
Ruth 3:18 - "Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day."
Ruth 1:8 - "And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother's house: the LORD deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me."
"And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons." - Ruth 1:3
Ruth 3:14 - "¶ And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one could know another. And he said, Let it not be known that a woman came into the floor."
Ruth 3:16 - "And when she came to her mother in law, she said, Who art thou, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done to her."
Ruth 3:15 - "Also he said, Bring the vail that thou hast upon thee, and hold it. And when she held it, he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and she went into the city."
"And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman." - Ruth 3:9
"And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do." - Ruth 3:5
Ruth 3:10 - "And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich."