CHAPTER 3 _THE CLAIMANT IN THE THRESHING FLOOR_ CONTENTS.—_Ruth, at the instigation of Naomi, by laying herself down at the feet of Boaz, claims an acknowledgment of the relationship between them. He explains to her that there is a nearer kinsman than himself, but promises to undertake the duties... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL AND EXEGETICAL NOTES.—THEN [and] NAOMI … SAID. The plan had matured itself slowly in her mind during the harvest season, now comes the proposal. Boaz, by his kindness and attention to Ruth, has evidently removed whatever difficulties she has felt heretofore [cf. on Ruth 1:11: p. 47]. SHALL... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL AND EXEGETICAL NOTES.— Ruth 3:7. AND WHEN BOAZ. Illustrates the simplicity of ancient patriarchal times and manners (_Lange_). The owners of the crops came every night and slept upon their threshing floors, and this we found to be universal in all the regions of Gaza (_Dr. Robinson_). HAD E... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL AND EXEGETICAL NOTES.— Ruth 3:14. And she lay at his feet. Lit. The places of his feet. Before one could know another. Lit. Before a man could know his companion. Recognise his friend (_Lange_). The Mishna has decided daybreak to begin when it became possible to distinguish between white an... [ Continue Reading ]