Or, “a home” (RSV). By the word “rest” Naomi refers to marriage (see on ch. 1:9). Naomi felt it her duty to do what she could to provide a home for the daughter-in-law who had so loyally followed her, and accordingly explained to Ruth her right, according to Jewish custom, to call upon Boaz to perform the duties of a near kinsman. If Boaz agrees to marry her, Ruth will not only have a home of her own but will also be able to perpetuate the name and preserve the heritage of her deceased husband.

There are two institutions that come down to us from Eden:

 (1) the Sabbath, a time of “rest,” when, in a special way, we dwell upon the evidences of God’s love for us and study how we may more perfectly express our love toward Him; and

 (2) the home, a place of “rest,” where love for one another should find its truest and most complete expression.