RUTH 3 — AT THE THRESHING FLOOR: A REQUEST FOR REDEMPTION

Chapter 3 is the most delicate scene in the book and the most easily misread. The threshing floor was an open, elevated place where grain was winnowed in the evening breeze, and the workers often slept beside the heap to guard the crop. Naomi's plan is an unusual and risky way of asking Boaz to fulfill his duties as a near relative. The meaning of the actions has been debated: uncovering the feet and lying down at his feet is best understood as a symbolic act of seeking his protection and presenting her claim, not as an immoral advance, as the narrator and Boaz stress her character and his restraint. Ruth's request that he spread his wing over her is a marriage proposal in the language of covenant protection. The chapter shows both women taking initiative within the framework of Israelite law, and Boaz responding with honor and integrity.

Winnowing at the threshing floor in the evening breeze, and workers sleeping by the grain, are documented in ancient and modern Near Eastern practices. Threshing floors have been excavated at many sites in Israel, including near Bethlehem, which were flat, open areas where grain was beaten and tossed. The spreading of a garment over a woman as a gesture of betrothal is attested in other biblical passages (Ezekiel 16:8) and in Near Eastern customs. The concept of the gōʾēl, the kinsman-redeemer, is part of the legal tradition of Israel and is paralleled in other ancient legal systems, which also had provisions for the protection of family property and name. Boaz's concern for reputation is consistent with the honor-based culture of the ancient Near East.