One day Naomi had a serious talk with Ruth. "My daughter," she said, "you are still young. I should be seeking a husband for you, that you might have a family of your own and prosper.

"This Boaz in whose fields you gleamed, has shown you kindness. He is a near relative. I hear that he is working tonight at the threshing floor. Get yourself washed and put on your best clothes then go down to the threshing floor, but don't let Boaz see you until after he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down to sleep go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do."

Ruth trusted Naomi to give her good advice, and she trusted Boaz not to dishonor her. She did as her mother-in-law said and after washing and putting on her best apparel went to the building after the workers had all gone home. Boaz was still inside having a meal and a little wine. She waited until he laid down and pulled a blanket over himself. After she was certain he was asleep, Ruth crept into the building and silently lifted part of the blanket from off his feet and lay down under its warmth. At midnight Boaz awoke startled to find a woman lying at his feet.

"Who are you?" he demanded.

"I am Ruth, your handservant. I have been told by my mother-in-law that according to your custom, you may marry me, since my husband was a close relative of yours. Spread your blanket over me to show that you are willing to take over my dead husband's job of caring for me."

"Bless you my daughter," Boaz said. "For your willingness to marry me, instead of seeking a husband your own age. Don't worry. I will do what is right. All the people in the city know that you are a brave and loyal young lady.

"It is true that I am a near relative, but there is one who is more closely related than I.

"Sleep here tonight where you will be safe. In the morning I will see if this man will perform his duty toward you. If not, then as the Lord lives, I will do the part of a kinsman for you. Lie down now until morning and rest."

Ruth slept at his feet until the morning. They both arose early, while it was still dark. Boaz filled her skirt with grain, so that if anyone saw her they would assume she had been out working. Then she slipped out and went back to her home.

Naomi was eager to learn what had happened. "How did things go?" she asked excitedly.

Ruth told her all that Boaz had said and presented her with the grain he had given her, "He said to me, 'Do not go empty-handed to your mother in law.'"

"Sit still and wait, my daughter," Naomi advised. "For the man won't rest until he settles this matter today."