Ruth 3:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ruth 3:9
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.
Chapter Context
Ruth 3 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, wisdom, fellowship. Written during the period of the Judges (c. 1100 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: During the tribal confederacy period, local customs and family laws were paramount for survival.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ruth and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ruth 3:9
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.
Analysis
Revelation: '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 identifies herself and makes explicit request. The phrase 'spread thy skirt' (paras kenaphekha, פְּרֹשׂ כְּנָפֶךָ) uses same Hebrew word (kanaph) Boaz used blessing Ruth to find refuge under God's 'wings' (2:12). Ruth essentially says 'you prayed I'd find refuge under God's wings—be the answer to that prayer by becoming my kinsman-redeemer.' She appeals to covenant law and his previous blessing. The request combined bold faith with appropriate legal grounds—Boaz was go'el, authorized and responsible to redeem.
Historical Context
The 'spreading skirt' idiom symbolized marriage and protection (Ezekiel 16:8). Ruth wasn't requesting improper relationship but formal marriage under kinsman-redeemer laws. Deuteronomy 25:5-10 established levirate marriage where near kinsman married deceased relative's widow to preserve family line and property. Ruth's appeal to this law demonstrated both knowledge of Israel's customs and appropriate channel for marriage request. Her identification as 'handmaid' maintained proper respect while asserting her claim on his covenant responsibility.
Reflection
- How does Ruth's bold request demonstrate proper initiative within appropriate biblical boundaries?
- What does her reference to Boaz's earlier blessing teach about holding others (and God) accountable to their stated commitments?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Ruth 2:20, 3:12, Ezekiel 16:8, Luke 14:11