The answer is: Uncovered his feet and lay down

Ruth 3:7

In the book of Ruth, there’s quite an intriguing cultural backdrop to what Ruth did while Boaz was asleep. When she uncovered his feet and lay down, it might seem a bit peculiar to us today, but it was a powerful gesture within the context of ancient Israelite customs. This act symbolized her desire for protection and her hope for a future together in a way clear to Boaz.

Imagine the setting: Ruth, a Moabitess widow, navigating the complexities of life in Bethlehem. The wheat harvest might have been plentiful, but there were deeper stones stacked against her, not the least of which was societal judgment for being from a foreign land. Surprisingly, her act of laying at Boaz’s feet was steeped in symbolism—she was effectively proposing marriage! This reflects a sort of boldness and agency that was often overlooked in women of that time.

For some fun trivia, Ruth is one of only two women in the Bible whose names appear in the genealogy of Jesus (alongside Tamar)—a strategic inclusion that underscores how God works through unexpected individuals to fulfill divine plans. Furthermore, the book brings out many themes of loyalty and redemption, capturing both human behavior and divine love, reminding readers that beauty often comes from the least likely places. It's also striking to note that the term "kinsman redeemer" reflected broader themes of relationships and societal obligations, transforming lives against steep odds. Does it not inspire you that love and commitment can transcend boundaries and conventions?