Ruth’s deeds and words at the threshing floor are honorable. Her motives are pure. She simply follows Naomi’s instructions in what was apparently a customary way of making a marriage proposal. Why does Ruth take the initiative in this matter? Boaz himself comprehends one reason: age. Boaz is older vis-à-vis Ruth, and so Boaz has assumed that she will not be interested in marriage to him. Another reason is tied to the change of clothing that Naomi orders; that is, Ruth needs to put away the signals of widowhood and demonstrate that she is available. In any case, Boaz’s reaction to Ruth’s deeds
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