Ruth 3

1. Shall I not seek rest for thee? Rest, lit. “resting-place”; a home. In estimating the conduct of Naomi and Ruth, we must remember that, by the custom of the Hebrews and the surrounding nations, Ruth was already virtually the wife of her late husband’s nearest kinsman, and that no further marriage ceremony was needed to perfect her claim to conjugal rights (Deut. xxv. 5). Naomi seems not to have been aware that Boaz was not the nearest kinsman, whilst his character for justice, and his previous kindness to Ruth, led her to expect that he would fulfil the requirements of the customary law.

2 winnoweth. After the corn had been threshed by oxen on the open floor (see note on Deut. xxv. 4), it was winnowed by throwing it up with forks or shovels against the evening breeze, which blew away the chaff, whilst the heavier grain fell on the ground in a heap.

3. Wash thyself, etc. These were nuptial preparations. The use of oil after bathing is very important in hot climates.

7 his heart was merry. That this implies no undue mirth appears from Eccles. viii. 15, where the same phrase is used.

9 spread . . . thy skirt. Or, “thy wing”: a symbol of matrimonial protection. The custom was to extend a corner of the scarf, or tallith (which was wound round the wearer in folds), and place it over the betrothed maiden.

10. Blessed be thou. It is evident from this that Boaz regarded Ruth’s conduct (on the supposition that he was the next of kin) as not only justifiable, but praiseworthy, indicating the constancy of her attachment (“kindness”) to her deceased husband, whose name and family she desired to perpetuate.

15 the vali. Rather, “the shawl,” or “cloak.” It is large enough to envelope the whole person; and that worn by the poorer classes is coarse and very strong.