As a relative of Naomi’s lost husband, Boaz performed a particular function in the family. A ‘guardian-redeemer’ was a legal term for someone who had an obligation to save a relative in serious difficulty.

Ruth’s difficulty had begun with the death of her husband and her lack of a son. The Law made provision for a deceased husband’s brother to take his place and marry his brother’s widow so that she would not be left destitute, and the family line would not be broken (Deut 25:5), but Naomi had no other living sons to fulfil this role.

All along, Naomi had wanted ‘rest or security for her daughters-in-law but she couldn’t provide it. Now, seeing how Boaz had treated Ruth with honour and affection over the weeks she had spent in his fields, she came up with a plan. Boaz was guardian-redeemer. Even more, he was a faithful and honourable man who demonstrated genuine affection for Ruth. Naomi saw the opportunity the Lord had placed in front of her and seized it.

The act of removing the cloak covering Boaz’s feet and then asking him to spread it over her was effectively a marriage proposal. The spread cloak was symbolic of Boaz taking Ruth into his protection. Quietly and privately, she showed him that she was willing if he was.

Boaz was willing, but there were some complications and matters to be settled first. He was an honourable man and would not act outside the Law but, as Naomi said, he would not rest until Ruth received her rest.

Did Naomi and Ruth act appropriately in this situation? Evidently Boaz was concerned that gossips would put the worst interpretation on Ruth’s actions but there is no indication that she did anything wrong. Boaz points out that everybody knows that Ruth has a noble character.

Neither was Naomi’s plan manipulative. The two women could have publicly demanded that Boaz fulfil his role as guardian-redeemer, but instead they gave him privacy to make his own decision. He considered Ruth’s actions a kindness to him.

This is a story of the coming together of the purposes of God and the desires of his people. Naomi desired security for Ruth, and God planned to bless her in this way. God provided the opportunity by leading Ruth to Boaz, and Naomi recognised God’s good plan for what it was and took action. When our hearts’ desires coincide with the plans of God, wonderful things can happen. May the Lord soften our hearts to be receptive to his purposes.

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NEWBOLD BAPTIST CHURCH