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2RUTfrontintrof68r0

Introduction to Ruth

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of Ruth

  1. How Ruth came to Bethlehem with Naomi (1:122)
  2. Boaz helps Ruth as she gleans (2:123)
  3. Boaz and Ruth at the threshing floor (3:118)
  4. How Ruth became the wife of Boaz (4:116)
  5. Obed born to Ruth and Boaz; the genealogy of David (4:1322)

What is the Book of Ruth about?

This book is about a non-Israelite woman named Ruth. It tells how she came to join the people of Yahweh. The book also explains how Ruth became an ancestor of King David.

How should the title of this book be translated?

This book traditionally has the title “Ruth” because she is the main person in it. Translators can use a title such as “The Book about Ruth.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

When did the events in the Book of Ruth occur?

The story of Ruth is set during the time when there were “judges” in Israel. These were men and women whom God chose to help the Israelites defeat their enemies. These leaders usually continued to help the people by deciding disputes among them. They also helped them make important decisions. Many of these leaders served all the people of Israel, but some of them may have served only certain tribes.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Why does Scripture include a book about a woman from the foreign land of Moab?

In a period when Israel was often unfaithful to Yahweh, a woman from Moab shows great faith in him. The Israelites frequent lack of faith in Yahweh is contrasted with the faith of this woman from a foreign land. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])

What important marriage custom is found in the Book of Ruth?

Israelites practiced what is called “levirate marriage.” This was a custom for the closest male relative to provide for a childless widow by marrying her. Any children born to them were to be regarded as children of the dead man. They did this so that the dead man would still have descendants. If the closest relative did not marry the woman, another relative could.

What was a “kinsman-redeemer”?

A persons close relative or relatives were expected to act as “kinsmen-redeemers” (2:20 ULT) for him or her. They were responsible to provide for a relative in need. They were also responsible to practice “levirate marriage.” In the Book of Ruth, Boaz is one such kinsman-redeemer.

What was “gleaning” in the Book of Ruth?

Poor people were allowed to follow after the men who harvested a field. These “gleaners” picked up sheaves of grain that the harvesters missed or dropped. In this way, poor people were able to find some food. Ruth became a gleaner in a field belonging to Boaz.

What is covenant faithfulness or covenant loyalty?

A covenant is a formal, binding agreement between two parties that one or both parties must fulfill. Covenant faithfulness or covenant loyalty is when a person does what they said they would do, according to a covenant they had with someone else. God promised that he would love and be faithful to the Israelites. The Israelites were to do the same toward him and toward each other.

The Book of Ruth shows that what kinsmen-redeemers do for their relatives are part of Israels duties in Gods covenant with them. The story of Boaz, Ruth and Naomi gives good examples to all of Israel of the good effects of covenant faithfulness. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenantfaith]])

What function did city gates have in the ancient Near East?

City gates in the time of Boaz were natural meeting places for the city elders. Elders were honored men who decided business matters and legal matters together. The city walls were large, perhaps two to three meters in width. Therefore the gateway opening provided a shady area for public meetings. For this reason, Boaz and the other elders sat in the gateway.

Some English Bible versions speak of Boaz sitting “at” the city gate. It may be best for translators to make clear that Boaz sat “in” the city gateway.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

How does the Book of Ruth change from one topic to another topic?

The Book of Ruth often changes to new topics or new parts of the story. The ULT uses various words to indicate these changes, such as “so,” “then,” and “now.” Translators should use the ways most natural in their own languages to signal these changes.

3RUT1introirf40

Ruth 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

“It happened in the days when the judges ruled”

The events of this book occur during the period of Judges. The book is concurrent with the book of Judges. To understand the historical context of the book, the translator may wish to review the book of Judges.

Special concepts in this chapter

Women without a husband or children

In the ancient Near East, if a woman lacked a husband or sons, she was considered to be in a dire circumstance. She would not have been able to provide for herself. This is why Naomi told her daughters to remarry.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Contrast

The actions of Ruth the Moabite are intended to contrast with the actions of Naomi the Jew. Ruth shows great faith in Naomis god, while Naomi does not trust in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])

4RUT11sb2jוַ⁠יְהִ֗י1It happened

“It was” or “This is what happened.” This is a common way of beginning a historical story.

5RUT11m9nlבִּ⁠ימֵי֙ שְׁפֹ֣ט הַ⁠שֹּׁפְטִ֔ים1in the days when the judges ruled

“during the time when judges led and governed Israel”

6RUT11nm13figs-explicitבָּ⁠אָ֑רֶץ1in the land

This refers to the land of Israel. Alternate translation: “in the land of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7RUT11mmb4אִ֜ישׁ1a certain man

“a man.” This is a common way of introducing a character into a story.

8RUT12e53aאֶפְרָתִ֔ים מִ⁠בֵּ֥ית לֶ֖חֶם יְהוּדָ֑ה1Ephrathites of Bethlehem of Judah

They were people from the tribe of Ephraim who settled at Bethlehem in the region of Judea.

9RUT13rxb1הִ֖יא וּ⁠שְׁנֵ֥י בָנֶֽי⁠הָ׃1she was left with her two sons

“Naomi had only her two sons with her”

10RUT14pk7gfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּשְׂ…נָשִׁים֙1took wives

“married women.” This is an idiom for marrying women. They did not take women who were already married. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11RUT14k7y9מֹֽאֲבִיּ֔וֹת1from the women of Moab

Naomis sons married women who were from the tribe of Moab. The Moabites worshiped other gods.

12RUT14aee6שֵׁ֤ם הָֽ⁠אַחַת֙…וְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֖י1the name of one…the name of the other

“the name of one woman…the name of the other woman”

13RUT14rt4cכְּ⁠עֶ֥שֶׂר שָׁנִֽים1ten years

Ten years after Elimelek and Naomi came to the country of Moab, their sons Mahlon and Kilion died.

14RUT15dbr3וַ⁠תִּשָּׁאֵר֙ הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה1leaving the woman without

Naomi was widowed.

15RUT16sa4zfigs-explicitשָֽׁמְעָה֙ בִּ⁠שְׂדֵ֣ה מוֹאָ֔ב1she had heard in the country of Moab

“while Naomi was living in Moab she heard.” It is implied that the news came from Israel. Alternate translation: “she heard from Israel while in the region of Moab” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

16RUT16ser2יְהוָה֙1Yahweh

This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.

17RUT16v86zפָקַ֤ד…אֶת־עַמּ֔⁠וֹ1had helped his people

God saw their need and provided good harvests for them.

18RUT16u9q2וְ⁠כַלֹּתֶ֔י⁠הָ1her daughters-in-law

the women who married Naomis sons

19RUT17w7tifigs-idiomוַ⁠תֵּלַ֣כְנָה בַ⁠דֶּ֔רֶךְ1they walked down the road

“they walked along the road.” To walk down a road is an expression for walking away. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

20RUT18fu39כַלֹּתֶ֔י⁠הָ1her daughters-in-law

“sons wives” or “sons widows”

21RUT18lxs2figs-youאִשָּׁ֖ה1each of you

Naomi was talking to two people, so languages that have a dual form of “you” would use that throughout her talk. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

22RUT18hsf7לְ⁠בֵ֣ית אִמָּ֑⁠הּ1to your mothers house

“to the home of each of your mothers”

23RUT18i262חֶ֔סֶד1in loving kindness

“kindness” includes the ideas of love, kindness, and faithfulness.

24RUT18g4r8figs-idiomעִם־הַ⁠מֵּתִ֖ים1with the dead

“to your husbands, who died.” Naomi was referring to her two sons that died. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

25RUT19pm6yיִתֵּ֤ן…לָ⁠כֶ֔ם1May grant you

“give you” or “allow you to have”

26RUT19c74vוּ⁠מְצֶ֣אןָ מְנוּחָ֔ה1that you find rest

“Rest” here includes security in marriage.

27RUT19v2vxfigs-metonymyבֵּ֣ית אִישָׁ֑⁠הּ1in the house of her husband

with their new husbands, not someone elses husband. This refers to both a physical house that belongs to the husband, and to the protection from shame by being married. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

28RUT19t69wfigs-idiomוַ⁠תִּשֶּׂ֥אנָה קוֹלָ֖⁠ן וַ⁠תִּבְכֶּֽינָה1and they lifted up their voices and cried

To raise the voice is an idiom for speaking loudly. The daughters cried out loud or wept bitterly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

29RUT110mag8figs-exclusiveנָשׁ֖וּב1we will return

When Orpah and Ruth said “we,” they were referring to themselves and not Naomi. So languages that have inclusive and exclusive “we” would use the exclusive form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

30RUT110bq4jfigs-youאִתָּ֥⁠ךְ1with you

Here “you” is the singular form referring to Naomi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

31RUT111ggi3figs-rquestionלָ֥⁠מָּה תֵלַ֖כְנָה עִמִּ֑⁠י1Why will you go with me?

This is a rhetorical question. Alternate translation: “It does not make sense for you to go with me.” or “You should not go with me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

32RUT111q2hnfigs-rquestionהַֽ⁠עֽוֹד־לִ֤⁠י בָנִים֙ בְּֽ⁠מֵעַ֔⁠י וְ⁠הָי֥וּ לָ⁠כֶ֖ם לַ⁠אֲנָשִֽׁים1Are there still sons in my womb, that they may become your husbands?

Naomi uses this question to say she cannot have other sons for them to marry. Alternate translation: “Obviously it is not possible for me to have any more sons who could become your husbands.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

33RUT112dyc4figs-explicitזָקַ֖נְתִּי מִ⁠הְי֣וֹת לְ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1I am too old to have a husband

The reason a husband would be important can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “too old to marry again and bear more children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

34RUT112kh9gיָלַ֥דְתִּי בָנִֽים1would give birth to sons

“bear children” or “deliver baby boys”

35RUT113gmc2figs-rquestionאֲשֶׁ֣ר יִגְדָּ֔לוּ הֲ⁠לָהֵן֙ תֵּֽעָגֵ֔נָה לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֖י הֱי֣וֹת לְ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1would you therefore wait until they were grown? Would you keep yourselves from having a husband?

These are rhetorical questions, which do not expect an answer. Alternate translation: “you would not wait until they were grown up so that you could marry them. You would choose to marry a husband now.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

36RUT113gh99figs-metaphorמַר־לִ֤⁠י מְאֹד֙1It is exceedingly bitter to me

Bitterness is a metaphor for grief, and what grieves her can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “It greatly grieves me that you have no husbands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] or [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

37RUT113z9u3figs-metonymyיָצְאָ֥ה בִ֖⁠י יַד־יְהוָֽה1the hand of Yahweh has gone out against me

The word “hand” refers to Yahwehs power or influence. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has caused terrible things to happen to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

38RUT114n47vfigs-idiomוַ⁠תִּשֶּׂ֣נָה קוֹלָ֔⁠ן וַ⁠תִּבְכֶּ֖ינָה1Then they lifted up their voices and cried

This means that they cried out loud or wept bitterly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

39RUT114t4slfigs-explicitוְ⁠ר֖וּת דָּ֥בְקָה בָּֽ⁠הּ1but Ruth held on to her

“Ruth clung to her.” Alternate translation: “Ruth refused to leave her” or “Ruth would not leave her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

40RUT115ld6gהִנֵּה֙…יְבִמְתֵּ֔⁠ךְ1Listen, your sister-in-law

“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important, your sister-in-law”

41RUT115nqm3יְבִמְתֵּ֔⁠ךְ1your sister-in-law

“the wife of your husbands brother” or “Orpah”

42RUT115man4אֱלֹהֶ֑י⁠הָ1her gods

Before Orpah and Ruth married Naomis sons, they worshiped the gods of Moab. During their marriage, they began to worship Naomis God.

43RUT116z5ugוּ⁠בַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֤ר תָּלִ֨ינִי֙1where you stay

“where you live”

44RUT116b518figs-explicitעַמֵּ֣⁠ךְ עַמִּ֔⁠י1your people will be my people

Ruth is referring to Naomis people, the Israelites. Alternate translation: “I will consider the people of your country as being my own people” or “I will consider your relatives as my own relatives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

45RUT117lql7figs-idiomבַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֤ר תָּמ֨וּתִי֙ אָמ֔וּת1Where you die, I will die

This refers to Ruths desire to spend the rest of her life living in the same place and town as Naomi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

46RUT117sje3figs-idiomיַעֲשֶׂ֨ה יְהוָ֥ה לִ⁠י֙ וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יֹסִ֔יף כִּ֣י1May Yahweh do to me, and even more, if

This refers to Ruth asking God to punish her if she does not do what she said like the english idiom “God forbid, if.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

47RUT118rsq2וַ⁠תֶּחְדַּ֖ל לְ⁠דַבֵּ֥ר אֵלֶֽי⁠הָ1she stopped arguing with her

“Naomi stopped arguing with Ruth”

48RUT119j9wawriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֗י1It happened that

“It came about.” This is marking a new story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

49RUT119y3usfigs-metonymyכָּל־הָ⁠עִיר֙1the entire town

The “town” refer to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “everyone in the town” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

50RUT119xnb3הֲ⁠זֹ֥את נָעֳמִֽי1Is this Naomi?

Since it has been many years since Naomi lived in Bethlehem and no longer has her husband and two sons, it is likely the women were expressing doubt as to if this woman was actually Naomi. Treat as a real question, not rhetorical.

51RUT120stw5אַל־תִּקְרֶ֥אנָה לִ֖⁠י נָעֳמִ֑י1Do not call me Naomi

The name “Naomi” means “my delight.” Since Naomi lost her husband and sons, she no longer feels her life matches her name.

52RUT120swe9translate-namesמָרָ֔א1Bitter

This is a translation of the meaning of the name. It is also often translated according to its sound as “Mara.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

53RUT121n9zcאֲנִי֙ מְלֵאָ֣ה הָלַ֔כְתִּי וְ⁠רֵיקָ֖ם הֱשִׁיבַ֣⁠נִי יְהוָ֑ה1I went out full, but Yahweh has brought me home again empty

When Naomi left Bethlehem, her husband and two sons were living, and she was happy. Naomi blames Yahweh for the death of her husband and sons, saying that he has caused her to return to Bethlehem without them, and now she is bitter and unhappy.

54RUT121jqx5עָ֣נָה בִ֔⁠י1has testified against me

“judged me guilty”

55RUT121t1p8הֵ֥רַֽע לִֽ⁠י1has afflicted me

“has brought calamity on me” or “has brought tragedy to me”

56RUT122cx7gwriting-endofstoryוַ⁠תָּ֣שָׁב נָעֳמִ֗י וְ⁠ר֨וּת1So Naomi returned, with Ruth

This begins a summary statement. English marks this by the word “so.” Determine how your language marks concluding or summary statements and do the same. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

57RUT122bgy3figs-abstractnounsבִּ⁠תְחִלַּ֖ת קְצִ֥יר שְׂעֹרִֽים1at the beginning of the barley harvest

The phrase “the barley harvest” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “when the farmers were just beginning to harvest barley” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

58RUT2introld2v0

Ruth 02 General Notes

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Do not go and glean in another field”

Boaz said this because he could not guarantee their safety in another persons field. It is assumed that not everyone was as gracious and obedient to the law of Moses as Boaz. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

59RUT21t2snwriting-backgroundוּֽ⁠לְ⁠נָעֳמִ֞י מידע לְ⁠אִישָׁ֗⁠הּ1Now Naomi had a relative of her husband

This phrase introduces new information before the story continues. Your language may have a way to introduce new information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

60RUT21b4q7אִ֚ישׁ גִּבּ֣וֹר חַ֔יִל1a man of great wealth

“a prominent, wealthy man.” This means that Boaz was prosperous and well known in his community, with a good reputation.

61RUT22am6aר֨וּת הַ⁠מּוֹאֲבִיָּ֜ה1Ruth, the Moabite woman

Here the story resumes. You need to see how your language restarts a story after a break.

62RUT22c7rkהַ⁠מּוֹאֲבִיָּ֜ה1the Moabite woman

This is another way of saying the woman was from the country or tribe of Moab.

63RUT22qt4qוַ⁠אֲלַקֳטָּ֣ה בַ⁠שִׁבֳּלִ֔ים1glean heads of grain

“gather kernels of grain left behind by the harvesters” or “pick up kernels of grain left behind by the harvesters”

64RUT22j59bfigs-idiomאֲשֶׁ֥ר אֶמְצָא־חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָ֑י⁠ו1in whose eyes I will find favor

The phrase “found favor” is an idiom which means to be approved of by someone. Ruth speaks of gaining someones favor as gaining permission or approval. Also, the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts and judgement. Alternate translation: “who will grant me permission to glean” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

65RUT22ed93בִתִּֽ⁠י1my daughter

Ruth was caring for Naomi as if she were her own mother. Make sure it is possible in your language to use this word for someone who is not an actual daughter.

66RUT23ht73וַ⁠יִּ֣קֶר מִקְרֶ֔⁠הָ1She happened to come

Ruth was not aware that the field she picked to glean in belonged to Naomis relative Boaz.

67RUT24vys2וְ⁠הִנֵּה־בֹ֗עַז1Behold, Boaz

The word “behold” alerts us to the important event of Boaz arriving at the field. Your language may also have a specific way of introducing important events or characters.

68RUT24q1lvבָּ֚א מִ⁠בֵּ֣ית לֶ֔חֶם1came from Bethlehem

The fields were an unspecified distance outside of Bethlehem.

69RUT24r4blיְבָרֶכְ⁠ךָ֥ יְהוָֽה1May Yahweh bless you

“give you good things” or “make you happy”

70RUT25a5htלְ⁠מִ֖י הַ⁠נַּעֲרָ֥ה הַ⁠זֹּֽאת1Whose is this young woman?

Possible meanings are 1) Boaz was asking about Ruths husband or 2) Boaz was asking about Ruths parents or current guardians.

71RUT25sdf9הַ⁠נִּצָּ֖ב עַל1was supervising

“was in charge of” or “was managing”

72RUT27kj7aהַ⁠בַּ֖יִת1the house

“the hut” or “the shelter.” This was a temporary shelter or garden hut in the field that provided shade from the sun.

73RUT28ltk3figs-rquestionהֲ⁠ל֧וֹא שָׁמַ֣עַתְּ בִּתִּ֗⁠י1Will you not listen to me, my daughter?

This can be reworded as a command. Alternate translation: “Listen to me, my daughter” or “Note well what I am telling you, my daughter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

74RUT28ke9bfigs-idiomבִּתִּ֗⁠י1my daughter

This was a kind way of addressing a younger woman. Ruth was not the actual daughter of Boaz, so make sure the translation of this does not make it sound like she was. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

75RUT29jq6nfigs-metonymyעֵינַ֜יִ⁠ךְ בַּ⁠שָּׂדֶ֤ה1Keep your eyes on the field

The eyes represent watching something or paying attention to something. Alternate translation: “Watch only the field” or “Pay attention only to the field” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

76RUT29xc6ufigs-rquestionהֲ⁠ל֥וֹא צִוִּ֛יתִי אֶת־הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֖ים לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֣י נָגְעֵ֑⁠ךְ1Have I not instructed the young men not to touch you?

Boaz used this question to emphasize what he had already done to help Ruth. Alternate translation: “I have given the men strict instructions…you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

77RUT29ub62אֶת־הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֖ים1the young men

“young male workers…young female workers.” The word “men” is used three times to refer to the young men who are harvesting in the field. Some languages can say this using one word, and they have a different word that means young women workers.

78RUT29v5e4לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֣י נָגְעֵ֑⁠ךְ1not to touch you

Possible meanings are 1) the men were not to harm Ruth or 2) the men were not to stop her from gleaning in his field.

79RUT29ahr7מֵ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִשְׁאֲב֖וּ⁠ן הַ⁠נְּעָרִֽים1from what the young men have drawn

To draw water means to pull up water from a well or to take it out of a storage vessel.

80RUT210az6yוַ⁠תִּפֹּל֙ עַל־פָּנֶ֔י⁠הָ וַ⁠תִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ אָ֑רְצָ⁠ה1Then she fell on her face and bowed down to the ground

These are acts of respect and reverence. She was showing honor to Boaz out of gratefulness for what he had done for her. It was also a posture of humility. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

81RUT210ug7pמַדּוּעַ֩ מָצָ֨אתִי חֵ֤ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ לְ⁠הַכִּירֵ֔⁠נִי וְ⁠אָּנֹכִ֖י נָכְרִיָּֽה1Why have I found favor in your eyes that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?

Ruth is asking a real question.

82RUT210x6f8נָכְרִיָּֽה1foreigner

Ruth had pledged her loyalty to the God of Israel in private, but she was known publicly as “the Moabitess.”

83RUT211app6figs-activepassiveהֻגֵּ֨ד הֻגַּ֜ד לִ֗⁠י1It has surely been reported to me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People have reported to me” or “People have told me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

84RUT211r44nfigs-metonymyוַ⁠תֵּ֣לְכִ֔י אֶל־עַ֕ם1have come to a people

Boaz is referring to Ruth coming to dwell with Naomi in a village and community, a country, and religion she did not know. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

85RUT212x5ctיְשַׁלֵּ֥ם…פָּעֳלֵ֑⁠ךְ1reward your deed

“repay you” or “pay you back”

86RUT212s2vmפָּעֳלֵ֑⁠ךְ1your deed

This is an act of faith, choosing to live with Naomi in Bethlehem and trusting Naomis God.

87RUT212gnn5figs-parallelismוּ⁠תְהִ֨י מַשְׂכֻּרְתֵּ֜⁠ךְ שְׁלֵמָ֗ה מֵ⁠עִ֤ם יְהוָה֙1may full payment be given to you by Yahweh

This is a poetic expression that is very similar to the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “May Yahweh give back to you even more than you have given” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

88RUT212eh86figs-metaphorאֲשֶׁר־בָּ֖את לַ⁠חֲס֥וֹת תַּֽחַת־כְּנָפָֽי⁠ו1under whose wings you have come for refuge

Boaz uses the picture of a mother bird gathering her chicks under her wings to protect them, in order to describe Gods protection for those who trust in him. Alternate translation: “in whose safe care you have placed yourself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

89RUT213v2q1figs-idiomאֶמְצָא־חֵ֨ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֤י⁠ךָ1Let me find favor in your eyes

Here “find favor” is an idiom that means be approved of or that he is pleased with her. Here “eyes” are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing his evaluation. Alternate translation: “Please accept me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

90RUT213zc5nוְ⁠אָנֹכִי֙ לֹ֣א אֶֽהְיֶ֔ה כְּ⁠אַחַ֖ת שִׁפְחֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ1though I am not like one of your female servants

Possible meanings are 1) Ruth was not one of Boazs female servants or 2) Ruth did not think her marriage to Naomis son granted her any privilege in Bethlehem.

91RUT214yht2לְ⁠עֵ֣ת הָ⁠אֹ֗כֶל1At mealtime

This refers to the noontime meal.

92RUT214p256וְ⁠טָבַ֥לְתְּ פִּתֵּ֖⁠ךְ בַּ⁠חֹ֑מֶץ1dip your piece of bread in the wine vinegar

This was a simple meal eaten in the field. People would sit on the ground around a cloth that had a bowl of wine vinegar on it and plates of broken bread. They would dip their bread in the vinegar bowl to wet it and add flavor before they ate it.

93RUT214xr6sבַּ⁠חֹ֑מֶץ1the wine vinegar

a sauce that bread was dipped in. The Israelites further fermented some of their wine to make vinegar.

94RUT215v6wrוַ⁠תָּ֖קָם לְ⁠לַקֵּ֑ט וַ⁠יְצַו֩ בֹּ֨עַז אֶת־נְעָרָ֜י⁠ו1When she got up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men

In the context of the commands, it is likely that Ruth was far enough away not to hear Boazs instructions. Alternate translation: “And when Ruth got up to gather up grain, Boaz privately told his young men”

95RUT215rct9וַ⁠תָּ֖קָם1When she got up

“As she stood up”

96RUT215a5z9 גַּ֣ם בֵּ֧ין הָֽ⁠עֳמָרִ֛ים1even among the bundles

Here “even” denotes “above and beyond what one normally does.” Boaz instructs his workers to let Ruth glean around the bundles of grain. People who were gleaning were normally forbidden from working that close to the harvested grain.

97RUT216u6hvשֹׁל־תָּשֹׁ֥לּוּ לָ֖⁠הּ מִן־הַ⁠צְּבָתִ֑ים1pull out for her some grain from the bundles

“take some stalks of grain out of the bundles and leave them for her” or “leave behind stalks of grain for her to collect”

98RUT216nn9lוְ⁠לֹ֥א תִגְעֲרוּ־בָֽ⁠הּ1do not rebuke her

“do not cause her shame” or “do not dishonor her”

99RUT217h3apוַ⁠תַּחְבֹּט֙1she beat out

She separated the edible part of the grain from the hull and stalk, which is thrown away.

100RUT217mq6btranslate-bvolumeכְּ⁠אֵיפָ֥ה שְׂעֹרִֽים1about an ephah of barley

An ephah is a unit of measurement equal to about 22 liters. Alternate translation: “about 22 liters of barley” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

101RUT218etn8figs-explicitוַ⁠תִּשָּׂא֙ וַ⁠תָּב֣וֹא הָ⁠עִ֔יר1She lifted it up and went into the city

It is implied that Ruth carried the grain home. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

102RUT218r6szוַ⁠תֵּ֥רֶא חֲמוֹתָ֖⁠הּ1Then her mother-in-law saw

“Naomi saw”

103RUT219bg28figs-parallelismאֵיפֹ֨ה לִקַּ֤טְתְּ הַ⁠יּוֹם֙ וְ⁠אָ֣נָה עָשִׂ֔ית1Where have you gleaned today, and where did you work?

Naomi said almost the same thing in two different ways to show that she was very interested in knowing what had happened to Ruth that day. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

104RUT220p8kmבָּר֥וּךְ הוּא֙ לַ⁠יהוָ֔ה1May he be blessed by Yahweh

Naomi is asking God to reward Boaz for his kindness to Ruth and herself.

105RUT220ur7zfigs-doublenegativesאֲשֶׁר֙ לֹא־עָזַ֣ב חַסְדּ֔⁠וֹ1who has not forsaken his loving kindness

“who has continued to be loyal.” Possible meanings are 1) Boaz remembered his obligations to Naomi as a family member or 2) Naomi is referring to Yahweh, who was acting through Boaz or 3) Yahweh has continued to be faithful to the living and the dead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

106RUT220ljz3אֶת־הַ⁠חַיִּ֖ים1to the living

“to the people who are still living.” Naomi and Ruth were the “living.”

107RUT220wjr4figs-nominaladjוְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠מֵּתִ֑ים1and to the dead

Naomis husband and sons were the “dead.” This can be stated differently to remove the nominal adjective “the dead.” Alternate translation: “the people who have already died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

108RUT220cyy2figs-parallelismקָר֥וֹב לָ֨⁠נוּ֙ הָ⁠אִ֔ישׁ מִֽ⁠גֹּאֲלֵ֖⁠נוּ הֽוּא1That man is our relative, one of our kinsman-redeemers

The second phrase repeats and expands the first. This is a Hebrew style of emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

109RUT220zu5fמִֽ⁠גֹּאֲלֵ֖⁠נוּ1kinsman-redeemers

A kinsman-redeemer was a close male relative who could rescue a childless widow from financial ruin by marrying her and having a child with her. He would also reacquire the land his relatives had lost due to poverty and redeem family members who had sold themselves into slavery.

110RUT221k2lzגַּ֣ם׀ כִּי־אָמַ֣ר אֵלַ֗⁠י1Indeed, he also aid to me

“He even said to me.” This indicates that what follows is the most important part of Boazs words to Ruth.

111RUT221g585עִם־הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֤ים אֲשֶׁר־לִ⁠י֙ תִּדְבָּקִ֔י⁠ן1keep close to my young men

Boaz was referring to the physical protection his men can provide her.

112RUT222f2twתֵֽצְאִי֙ עִם1go out with

“work with”

113RUT222bcc4וְ⁠לֹ֥א יִפְגְּעוּ־בָ֖⁠ךְ1so that they do not harm you

Possible meanings are 1) other workers might abuse Ruth or try to seize her and sleep with her or 2) in another field, the owner might interfere or stop her from gleaning until the end of the harvest.

114RUT223e2vqוַ⁠תִּדְבַּ֞ק1she stayed close

Ruth worked in Boazs fields with his workers during the day, so she would be safe.

115RUT223a7qpוַ⁠תֵּ֖שֶׁב אֶת־חֲמוֹתָֽ⁠הּ1She lived with her mother-in-law

Ruth went to Naomis home to sleep at night.

116RUT3introt4y50

Ruth 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Boazs integrity

Boaz showed great integrity in this chapter by not having sexual relations with Ruth. He was also concerned with how people would see Ruth if they caught her in this position. Boazs character is important for this story.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“So that things may go well for you”

Naomi attempted to make Ruth desirable to Boaz so that he would want to marry her. Even though she was a Gentile by birth, Boaz could marry her because she was, by marriage, Naomis daughter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

117RUT31r7arחֲמוֹתָ֑⁠הּ1her mother-in-law

Naomi is the mother of Ruths dead husband.

118RUT31f1ucבִּתִּ֞⁠י1My daughter

Ruth became Naomis daughter by marrying her son and further by her actions in caring for Naomi after returning to Bethlehem.

119RUT31nxr8figs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֧א אֲבַקֶּשׁ־לָ֛⁠ךְ מָנ֖וֹחַ…־לָֽ⁠ךְ1should I not seek rest for you…with you?

Naomi uses this question to tell Ruth what she planned to do. Alternate translation: “I must look for a place for you to rest…for you.” or “I must find a husband to care for you…for you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

120RUT31uw2pfigs-metaphorלָ֛⁠ךְ מָנ֖וֹחַ1rest for you

Possible meanings are 1) literally in finding a house for her to live in or 2) figuratively in finding a husband to care for her. Naomi probably had both senses in mind. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

121RUT32j31tfigs-explicitהָיִ֖ית אֶת־נַעֲרוֹתָ֑י⁠ו1young female workers you were with

The translation can make explicit that she was working in the fields with these female workers. Alternate translation: “female workers you have been with in the fields” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

122RUT32b4h8figs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֥א בֹ֨עַז֙ מֹֽדַעְתָּ֔⁠נוּ1is he not our kinsman?

Naomi probably used this question to remind Ruth of something she had already told her. Alternate translation: “he is our relative.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

123RUT32nd8vהִנֵּה1Look

This term indicates that the following statement is very important.

124RUT32ms25זֹרֶ֛ה1winnowing

To winnow means to separate grain from the unwanted chaff by tossing both the grain and chaff into the air, allowing the wind to blow the chaff away.

125RUT33ru6zוָ⁠סַ֗כְתְּ1anoint yourself

This is probably a reference to rubbing sweet-smelling oil on oneself, much as women put on perfume today.

126RUT33e92hfigs-idiomו⁠ירדתי הַ⁠גֹּ֑רֶן1go down to the threshing floor

This refers to leaving the city and heading to the threshing area. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

127RUT34ln1mtranslate-symactionוְ⁠גִלִּ֥ית מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י⁠ו1uncover his feet

This means to remove the cloak or blanket covering his feet so that they would be exposed to the cold. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

128RUT34l4weו⁠שכבתי1lie down

“lie down at his feet”

129RUT34w1u5וְ⁠הוּא֙ יַגִּ֣יד לָ֔⁠ךְ אֵ֖ת אֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּעַשִֽׂי⁠ן1Then he will tell you what you should do

The specific custom of that time is unclear, but this is usually understood as a culturally acceptable way for a woman to tell a man that she was willing to marry him. Boaz would understand the custom and accept or reject her offer.

130RUT34nn4gוְ⁠הוּא֙ יַגִּ֣יד1Then he will tell

“When he wakes up, he will”

131RUT37fz7efigs-synecdocheוַ⁠יִּיטַ֣ב לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1his heart was merry

Here Boaz is referred to by his heart. It does not imply Boaz was overly drunk. Alternate translation: “he was satisfied” or “he was in a good mood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

132RUT37y6gkוַ⁠תָּבֹ֣א בַ⁠לָּ֔ט1she came quietly

“she sneaked in” or “she came in quietly so no one would hear her”

133RUT37eq2uוַ⁠תְּגַ֥ל מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י⁠ו1uncovered his feet

“removed his blanket from his feet”

134RUT37pb6lוַ⁠תִּשְׁכָּֽב1lay down

“lay down at his feet”

135RUT38pz92וַ⁠יְהִי֙1It came about

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

136RUT38qsm2בַּ⁠חֲצִ֣י הַ⁠לַּ֔יְלָה1at midnight

“in the middle of the night”

137RUT38xun6וַ⁠יֶּחֱרַ֥ד1was startled

It is not clear what startled Boaz. Perhaps he suddenly felt the cold air on his feet.

138RUT38c23jfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּלָּפֵ֑ת1He turned over

He looked to see what startled him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

139RUT38e7uiאִשָּׁ֔ה שֹׁכֶ֖בֶת מַרְגְּלֹתָֽי⁠ו1a woman was lying at his feet

The woman was Ruth, but Boaz could not recognize her in the darkness.

140RUT39wj9eאֲמָתֶ֔⁠ךָ1your female servant

Ruth spoke with humility to Boaz.

141RUT39xp1bfigs-idiomוּ⁠פָרַשְׂתָּ֤ כְנָפֶ֨⁠ךָ֙ עַל־אֲמָ֣תְ⁠ךָ֔1Spread your cloak over your female servant

This was a cultural idiom for marriage. Alternate translation: “Marry me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

142RUT39l5g4גֹאֵ֖ל1near kinsman

a close relative with special responsibilities toward their extended family

143RUT310bjw9הֵיטַ֛בְתְּ חַסְדֵּ֥⁠ךְ הָ⁠אַחֲר֖וֹן מִן־הָ⁠רִאשׁ֑וֹן1you have showed more kindness at the end than at the beginning

“even more kindness now than before”

144RUT310e7kaהֵיטַ֛בְתְּ חַסְדֵּ֥⁠ךְ הָ⁠אַחֲר֖וֹן1you have showed more kindness at the end

This refers to Ruth asking Boaz to marry her. By marrying Naomis relative, Ruth would provide for Naomi and demonstrate great kindness to Naomi.

145RUT310cbd3הָ⁠רִאשׁ֑וֹן1at the beginning

This refers to the way Ruth had earlier provided for her mother-in-law by staying with her and gleaning grain for food for them.

146RUT310n84dfigs-idiomלְ⁠בִלְתִּי־לֶ֗כֶת אַחֲרֵי֙1because you have not gone after

“you have not pursued marriage with.” Ruth could have ignored Naomis need and looked for a husband for herself outside of Naomis relatives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

147RUT311ei93בִּתִּ⁠י֙1my daughter

Boaz used this expression as a sign of respect toward Ruth as a younger woman.

148RUT312fvq5גֹּאֵ֖ל קָר֥וֹב מִמֶּֽ⁠נִּי1a kinsman nearer than I

It was the duty of the closest male relative to help the widow.

149RUT313gcl8figs-explicitאִם־יִגְאָלֵ֥⁠ךְ1if he will redeem you

Boaz is referring to the expectation that the closest male relative of Ruths dead husband would marry her and help carry on his family name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

150RUT313tkz9חַי־יְהוָ֑ה1as Yahweh lives

“as surely as Yahweh lives.” This was a common Hebrew vow.

151RUT314vn8pוַ⁠תִּשְׁכַּ֤ב מרגלת⁠ו1she lay at his feet

Ruth slept at Boaz feet. They did not have sex.

152RUT314dwx1ב⁠טרום יַכִּ֥יר אִ֖ישׁ אֶת־רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ1before anyone could recognize another person

This time of day can be spoken of in terms of darkness. Alternate translation: “while it was still dark”

153RUT315hj1eהַ⁠מִּטְפַּ֧חַת1shawl

a piece of cloth worn over the shoulders

154RUT315f5zgשֵׁשׁ־שְׂעֹרִים֙1six ephahs of barley

The actual amount is not stated. It was enough to be considered generous, yet small enough for Ruth to carry alone. Some think it was about 30 kilograms.

155RUT315gdn8וַ⁠יָּ֣שֶׁת עָלֶ֔י⁠הָ1put it on her

The amount of grain was so great that Ruth needed help picking it up to carry it.

156RUT315aj7uוַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א הָ⁠עִֽיר1Then he went into the city

Most ancient copies have “he went,” but some have “she went.” There are English versions with both. The better choice is “he went.”

157RUT316s7drfigs-explicitמִי־אַ֣תְּ בִּתִּ֑⁠י1How did it go, my daughter?

What Ruth meant by this question can be made more clear. Alternate translation: “What happened, my daughter?” or “How did Boaz act toward you?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

158RUT316w9p9אֵ֛ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָֽשָׂה־לָ֖⁠הּ הָ⁠אִֽישׁ1all that the man had done for her

“all that Boaz had done”

159RUT317e9xxאַל־תָּב֥וֹאִי רֵיקָ֖ם1Do not go empty-handed

“Do not go empty-handed” or “Do not go with nothing” or “Be sure to take something”

160RUT318u5rnאִם־כִּלָּ֥ה הַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר1finished this thing

This refers to the decision about who will buy Naomis property and marry Ruth.

161RUT4intropz6m0

Ruth 04 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

King David

Despite being a Moabitess, Ruth became an ancestor of David. David was Israels greatest king. It is shocking a Gentile would become a part of such an important lineage. She had great faith in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“You must also take Ruth the Moabitess”

Because Naomi had no son, her daughter-in-law Ruth needed to be provided for. Therefore, the relative who wanted to use her land had to also help Ruth to have a son who would come to provide for her.

“This was the custom in former times”

This is a comment made by the writer of the text. He functions as a narrator in this instance. It indicates that there was a considerable period of time between the events that occurred and the time they were written down.

162RUT41m4byהַ⁠שַּׁעַר֮1the gate

“the gate of the city” or “the gate of Bethlehem.” This was the main entrance to the walled town of Bethlehem. There was an open area by the gate that was used as a meeting place to discuss community matters.

163RUT41kz1gהַ⁠גֹּאֵ֤ל1the kinsman-redeemer

This was the closest living relative to Elimelek.

164RUT42bf74מִ⁠זִּקְנֵ֥י הָ⁠עִ֖יר1elders of the city

“leaders of the city”

165RUT43es9gחֶלְקַת֙ הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֔ה…מָכְרָ֣ה נָעֳמִ֔י1Naomi…is selling the parcel of land

It was the responsibility of the kinsman to buy back his relatives land and to care for his family. In this case, it meant the man must buy Naomis land, marry Ruth, and care for Naomi.

166RUT44c6xiנֶ֥גֶד1in the presence

This would make the transaction legal and binding.

167RUT44lgq1גְּאָ֔ל1redeem it

This meant to buy the land to keep it within their family.

168RUT44u548וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י אַחֲרֶ֑י⁠ךָ1I am after you

Boaz was the next kinsman in line to redeem the land.

169RUT45ut23בְּ⁠יוֹם־קְנוֹתְ⁠ךָ֥…וּ֠⁠מֵ⁠אֵת…קניתי1On the day that you buy…you must also acquire

Boaz uses this expression to inform his relative of the additional responsibility he will have if he buys the land.

170RUT45ymn8figs-synecdocheמִ⁠יַּ֣ד נָעֳמִ֑י1from the hand of Naomi

Here the word “hand” represents Naomi, who owns the field. Alternate translation: “from Naomi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

171RUT45dya3figs-idiomוּ֠⁠מֵ⁠אֵת ר֣וּת…קניתי1you must also acquire Ruth

“you must also marry Ruth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

172RUT45b3psר֣וּת…אֵֽשֶׁת־הַ⁠מֵּת֙1Ruth…the widow of a dead man

“Ruth…the widow of Elimeleks son”

173RUT45b3syלְ⁠הָקִ֥ים שֵׁם־הַ⁠מֵּ֖ת1to raise up the name of the dead

“that she may have a son to inherit the property and carry on the name of her dead husband”

174RUT46sx9kאַשְׁחִ֖ית אֶת־נַחֲלָתִ֑⁠י1damaging my own inheritance

He would have to give some of his own wealth to the children that Ruth might bear.

175RUT46sa7hגְּאַל־לְ⁠ךָ֤ אַתָּה֙ אֶת־גְּאֻלָּתִ֔⁠י1You redeem for yourself my right of redemption

“You redeem it yourself” or “You yourself redeem it instead of me”

176RUT47wga9writing-backgroundוְ⁠זֹאת֩1Now this was the custom

The writer of the book explains of the custom of exchange during the time of Ruth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

177RUT47lgf5writing-backgroundלְ⁠פָנִ֨ים1in former times

“in earlier times.” This implies that the customs had changed from when the story took place until the book was written. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

178RUT47xdr7נַעֲל֖⁠וֹ1his sandal

“his sandal”

179RUT47d46wלְ⁠רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ1to the other

This refers to the person with whom he was making the agreement. In this situation the near kinsman gave Boaz his shoe.

180RUT49zz42לַ⁠זְּקֵנִ֜ים וְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֗ם1to the elders and to all the people

This refers to all the people who were present at the meeting place, not to everyone in the town.

181RUT49img5כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֣ר לֶֽ⁠אֱלִימֶ֔לֶךְ וְ⁠אֵ֛ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר לְ⁠כִלְי֖וֹן וּ⁠מַחְל֑וֹן1all that was Elimeleks and all that was Kilions and Mahlons

This refers to all the land and possessions of Naomis dead husband and sons.

182RUT49lwx9figs-synecdocheמִ⁠יַּ֖ד נָעֳמִֽי1from the hand of Naomi

The hand of Naomi represents Naomi. She was responsible for the money exchange. Alternate translation: “from Naomi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

183RUT410nm32לְ⁠הָקִ֤ים שֵׁם־הַ⁠מֵּת֙ עַל־נַ֣חֲלָת֔⁠וֹ1to raise up the name of the dead man through his inheritance

The first son that Ruth bore would be legally considered Mahlons son and would inherit the land that Boaz bought from Naomi. Alternate translation: “so that I might give her a son who will inherit the dead mans property”

184RUT410gg1mfigs-metaphorוְ⁠לֹא־יִכָּרֵ֧ת שֵׁם־הַ⁠מֵּ֛ת מֵ⁠עִ֥ם אֶחָ֖י⁠ו1so that his name will not be cut off from among his brothers and from the gate of his place

Being forgotten is spoken of as if ones name were being cut off from a list of people who had lived earlier. Alternate translation: “so that he will not be forgotten by his brothers descendants and the people of this town” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

185RUT410xpu5וּ⁠מִ⁠שַּׁ֣עַר מְקוֹמ֑⁠וֹ1the gate of his place

The gate of the town is where important legal decisions were made, such as decisions about who owns a piece of land.

186RUT411ua2aהָ⁠עָ֧ם אֲשֶׁר־בַּ⁠שַּׁ֛עַר1the people who were in the gate

“people who were meeting together near the gate”

187RUT411hg6qfigs-metaphorהַ⁠בָּאָ֣ה אֶל־בֵּיתֶ֗⁠ךָ1is coming into your house

This has literal and figurative meaning. As Ruth marries Boaz, she will move into his house. House can also refer to becoming part of Boazs family by being his wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

188RUT411q47mכְּ⁠רָחֵ֤ל׀ וּ⁠כְ⁠לֵאָה֙1like Rachel and Leah

These were the two wives of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel.

189RUT411cz4tבָּנ֤וּ…אֶת־בֵּ֣ית יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1built up the house of Israel

“bore many children who became the nation of Israel”

190RUT411uk9qוַ⁠עֲשֵׂה־חַ֣יִל בְּ⁠אֶפְרָ֔תָה1may you prosper in Ephrathah

Ephrathah is the name of the clan to which Boaz belonged in Bethlehem.

191RUT412fn52figs-metaphorוִ⁠יהִ֤י בֵֽיתְ⁠ךָ֙ כְּ⁠בֵ֣ית1May your house be like the house

God abundantly blessed Judah through his son Perez. The people were asking God to bless Boaz in a similar way through Ruths children. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

192RUT412a433יָלְדָ֥ה תָמָ֖ר לִֽ⁠יהוּדָ֑ה1Tamar bore to Judah

Tamar was also a widow. Judah fathered a son with her, which continued the family name.

193RUT412xym8מִן־הַ⁠זֶּ֗רַע אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִתֵּ֤ן יְהוָה֙ לְ⁠ךָ֔1through the offspring that Yahweh will give you

Yahweh would give Boaz children through Ruth.

194RUT413u21gוַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח בֹּ֤עַז אֶת־רוּת֙1So Boaz took Ruth

“Boaz married Ruth” or “Boaz took Ruth as a wife”

195RUT413gw77figs-euphemismוַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א אֵלֶ֑י⁠הָ1He went in to her

This is a euphemism that refers to having sexual intercourse. Alternate translation: “He had sexual relations with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

196RUT414qj8vfigs-doublenegativesלֹ֣א הִשְׁבִּ֥ית לָ֛⁠ךְ גֹּאֵ֖ל הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם1who has not left you today without a kinsman=redeemer

This phrase can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: “who has provided you today with a near kinsman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

197RUT414p8p3וְ⁠יִקָּרֵ֥א שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ1May his name be famous

This refers to the reputation and character of Naomis grandson.

198RUT415hz3eלְ⁠מֵשִׁ֣יב נֶ֔פֶשׁ1a restorer of life

This phrase probably refers to how Naomi will again experience joy and hope in her life as a result of having a new grandson. Alternate translation: “one who brings joy to you again” or “one who will make you feel young again”

199RUT415z5lwוּ⁠לְ⁠כַלְכֵּ֖ל אֶת־שֵׂיבָתֵ֑⁠ךְ1a nourisher of your old age

“he will take care of you when you become old”

200RUT415rpc3figs-idiomט֣וֹבָה לָ֔⁠ךְ מִ⁠שִּׁבְעָ֖ה בָּנִֽים1better to you than seven sons

“Seven” was the Hebrew number of completeness. Naomis sons both died before they produced any offspring, but Ruth bore a grandson to Naomi by Boaz. Alternate translation: “better to you than any son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

201RUT416k1w4וַ⁠תִּקַּ֨ח נָעֳמִ֤י אֶת־הַ⁠יֶּ֨לֶד֙1Naomi took the child

This refers to Naomi holding the child. Make sure it does not sound like she took him away from Ruth.

202RUT416jn29וַ⁠תְּשִׁתֵ֣⁠הוּ בְ⁠חֵיקָ֔⁠הּ1laid him in her bosom

“held him close against her chest.” This is a statement of love and affection for the child.

203RUT417fkf2יֻלַּד־בֵּ֖ן לְ⁠נָעֳמִ֑י1A son has been born to Naomi

“The child is like a son to Naomi.” It was understood that the child was Naomis grandson, not her physical son.

204RUT417f9hafigs-explicitאֲבִ֥י דָוִֽד1the father of David

“father of King David.” Though “king” is not stated, it was clear to the original audience that David was King David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

205RUT418mzm1תּוֹלְד֣וֹת פָּ֔רֶץ1the descendants of Perez

“the successive descendants.” Because it was mentioned earlier that Perez was the son of Judah, the writer continues listing the family line that came from Perez.

206RUT419rl3ktranslate-namesוְ⁠חֶצְרוֹן֙…רָ֔ם1Hezron…Ram

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])