Ruth Asks Boaz for Help

Naomi wanted to help Ruth. She wanted Ruth to have a husband and a home. And she knew that Boaz was part of their family.

Naomi had a plan. She told Ruth, 'Tonight, put on your nicest clothes. Go to where Boaz is working. Wait until he goes to sleep, then go lie down by his feet. He'll know what you're asking.'

This sounds strange to us, but back then it was a special way to ask someone to marry you and take care of you.

Ruth trusted Naomi. She did exactly what Naomi said. She went to where Boaz was sleeping after his work. She lay down by his feet.

In the middle of the night, Boaz woke up. 'Who's there?' he asked.

'It's me, Ruth,' she said. 'You're part of my family. Will you take care of me? Will you marry me?'

Boaz was SO happy! 'God bless you, Ruth!' he said. 'You're such a good person! Everyone in town knows it. I will definitely help you!'

'But,' Boaz said, 'there's someone else in the family who might need to help you first. In the morning, I'll ask him. If he says no, then I'll marry you. I promise!'

Ruth stayed until morning. Before it got light, Boaz said, 'Here, take this grain home to Naomi.' He gave her a BIG gift of grain to carry.

Ruth went home. Naomi asked, 'What happened?'

Ruth told her everything! 'And look at all this grain Boaz gave me! He said you shouldn't be empty-handed.'

Naomi smiled. 'Boaz is a good man. He won't wait. He'll fix everything today!'

Ruth and Naomi felt hopeful. Good things were about to happen!