This verse from Ruth 3:1 sets the stage for Naomi's plan to secure a husband and a stable future for Ruth. Let's break it down:
"Naomi her mother-in-law said to her": This establishes the context – Naomi, who is Ruth's mother-in-law, is initiating a conversation.
"My daughter": This shows affection and a close relationship between Naomi and Ruth. Calling her "daughter" isn't just a term of kinship, but also reflects Naomi's care and concern for Ruth's well-being.
"Shall I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you?": This is the core of the verse.
"Rest": In this context, "rest" doesn't simply mean sleep or relaxation. It refers to security, stability, and a settled life, specifically through marriage. In ancient Israel, a woman's security was often tied to her husband and family.
"That it may be well with you?": Naomi wants Ruth to have a good life, free from hardship and uncertainty. She is motivated by love and a desire to see Ruth find happiness and security.
In essence, Naomi is saying, "Ruth, my dear, shouldn't I try to find you a husband so that you can have a stable and happy life?" This verse introduces Naomi's proactive and caring nature, and it foreshadows her plan to find a suitable husband for Ruth, leading to the events that follow in the rest of the chapter.
This verse from Ruth 3:1 sets the stage for Naomi's plan to secure a husband and a stable future for Ruth. Let's break it down:
"Naomi her mother-in-law said to her": This establishes the context – Naomi, who is Ruth's mother-in-law, is initiating a conversation.
"My daughter": This shows affection and a close relationship between Naomi and Ruth. Calling her "daughter" isn't just a term of kinship, but also reflects Naomi's care and concern for Ruth's well-being.
"Shall I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you?": This is the core of the verse.
"Rest": In this context, "rest" doesn't simply mean sleep or relaxation. It refers to security, stability, and a settled life, specifically through marriage. In ancient Israel, a woman's security was often tied to her husband and family.
"That it may be well with you?": Naomi wants Ruth to have a good life, free from hardship and uncertainty. She is motivated by love and a desire to see Ruth find happiness and security.
In essence, Naomi is saying, "Ruth, my dear, shouldn't I try to find you a husband so that you can have a stable and happy life?" This verse introduces Naomi's proactive and caring nature, and it foreshadows her plan to find a suitable husband for Ruth, leading to the events that follow in the rest of the chapter.