en_tn/en_tn_08-RUT.tsv

61 KiB
Raw Permalink Blame History

1BookChapterVerseIDSupportReferenceOrigQuoteOccurrenceGLQuoteOccurrenceNote
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]])

4RUT11sb2jwriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֗י1It happened that

It was or This is what happened. This is a common way of beginning a historical story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

5RUT11m9nlgrammar-connect-time-simultaneousבִּ⁠ימֵי֙ שְׁפֹ֣ט הַ⁠שֹּׁפְטִ֔ים1in the days when the judges ruled

during the time when judges led and governed Israel (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

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]])

7RUT11mmb4writing-participantsאִ֜ישׁ1a certain man

a man. This is a common way of introducing a character into a story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

8RUT12e53aאֶפְרָתִ֔ים מִ⁠בֵּ֥ית לֶ֖חֶם יְהוּדָ֑ה1who were Ephrathites of Bethlehem of Judah

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

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

Naomi had only her two sons with her

10RUT14pk7gfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּשְׂא֣וּ לָ⁠הֶ֗ם נָשִׁים֙1They took wives for themselves

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 was…and the name of the other was

the name of one woman was…the name of the other woman was

13RUT14rt4cכְּ⁠עֶ֥שֶׂר שָׁנִֽים1for about ten years

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

14RUT15dbr3וַ⁠תִּשָּׁאֵר֙ הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה מִ⁠שְּׁנֵ֥י יְלָדֶ֖י⁠הָ וּ⁠מֵ⁠אִישָֽׁ⁠הּ1leaving the woman without her two children or her husband

Naomi was widowed and both her sons died.

15RUT16u9q2וְ⁠כַלֹּתֶ֔י⁠הָ1her daughters-in-law

the women who married Naomis sons

16RUT16sa4zfigs-explicitשָֽׁמְעָה֙ בִּ⁠שְׂדֵ֣ה מוֹאָ֔ב1she had heard in the country of Moab

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

17RUT16ser2יְהוָה֙1Yahweh

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.

18RUT16v86zפָקַ֤ד…אֶת־עַמּ֔⁠וֹ1had visited his people

God saw their need and provided good harvests for them. Alternate translation: “had helped the Israelites”

19RUT17w7tifigs-idiomוַ⁠תֵּלַ֣כְנָה בַ⁠דֶּ֔רֶךְ1and they walked down the road

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

20RUT18fu39לִ⁠שְׁתֵּ֣י כַלֹּתֶ֔י⁠הָ1her two daughters-in-law

her two sons wives or ***the widows of her two sons

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 the house of your mother

to the home of each of your mothers

23RUT18i262חֶ֔סֶד1in loving kindness

loving 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 had died. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

25RUT18acb4figs-nominaladjהַ⁠מֵּתִ֖ים1the dead

your husbands, who died (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

26RUT19pm6yיִתֵּ֤ן יְהוָה֙ לָ⁠כֶ֔ם1May Yahweh grant to you

May Yahweh give you or May Yahweh allow you to have

27RUT19c74vוּ⁠מְצֶ֣אןָ מְנוּחָ֔ה1that you find rest

Rest here includes security in marriage.

28RUT19v2vxfigs-metonymyבֵּ֣ית אִישָׁ֑⁠הּ1in the house of her husband

This means with their new husbands, not with 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]])

29RUT19t69wfigs-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]])

30RUT110mag8figs-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]])

31RUT110bq4jfigs-youאִתָּ֥⁠ךְ1with you

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

32RUT111ggi3figs-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]])

33RUT111q2hnfigs-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]])

34RUT112dyc4figs-explicitזָקַ֖נְתִּי מִ⁠הְי֣וֹת לְ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1I am too old to have a husband

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

35RUT112abc1figs-rquestionכִּ֤י אָמַ֨רְתִּי֙ יֶשׁ־ לִ֣⁠י תִקְוָ֔ה גַּ֣ם הָיִ֤יתִי הַ⁠לַּ֨יְלָה֙ לְ⁠אִ֔ישׁ וְ⁠גַ֖ם יָלַ֥דְתִּי בָנִֽים1If I said I have hope, if I also had a husband tonight, and also would give birth to sons,

This rhetorical question begins here and continues into the next verse. Naomi uses this question to say she cannot have other sons for them to marry. Alternate translation: “Even if it was possible that I would expect to marry right away and also give birth to sons,…” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

36RUT112kh9gיָלַ֥דְתִּי בָנִֽים1would give birth to sons

bear children or deliver baby boys

37RUT113gmc2figs-rquestionאֲשֶׁ֣ר יִגְדָּ֔לוּ הֲ⁠לָהֵן֙ תֵּֽעָגֵ֔נָה לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֖י הֱי֣וֹת לְ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1would you therefore wait until they were grown? Would you keep yourselves from having a husband?

Naomi completes the rhetorical question she began in the previous verse, and asks a second question which emphasizes the same meaning. Alternate translation: “…you would not wait until they were grown up so that you could marry them. You would choose to marry a husband before then.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

38RUT113gh99figs-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]])

39RUT113z9u3figs-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]])

40RUT114n47vfigs-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]])

41RUT114t4slfigs-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]])

42RUT115ld6gהִנֵּה֙1Listen

Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important

43RUT115nqm3יְבִמְתֵּ֔⁠ךְ1your sister-in-law

the wife of your husbands brother or Orpah

44RUT115man4אֱלֹהֶ֑י⁠הָ1her gods

Before Orpah and Ruth married Naomis sons, they worshiped the gods of Moab. During their marriage, they began to worship Yahweh. Now, Orpah was going to worship the gods of Moab again.

45RUT116z5ugוּ⁠בַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֤ר תָּלִ֨ינִי֙1where you stay

where you live

46RUT116b518figs-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]])

47RUT117lql7figs-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]])

48RUT117sje3figs-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]])

49RUT117abc2כִּ֣י הַ⁠מָּ֔וֶת יַפְרִ֖יד בֵּינִ֥⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֵֽ⁠ךְ1except death separates between me and between you

If anything other than death separates us from each other or if I leave you while you and I are both still alive

50RUT118rsq2וַ⁠תֶּחְדַּ֖ל לְ⁠דַבֵּ֥ר אֵלֶֽי⁠הָ1she stopped arguing with her

Naomi stopped arguing with Ruth

51RUT119j9wawriting-neweventוַתֵּלַ֣כְנָה שְׁתֵּיהֶ֔ם עַד־בֹּאָ֖נָה בֵּ֣ית לָ֑חֶם וַ⁠יְהִ֗י1It happened that when they came to Bethlehem,

This sentence introduces a new event in the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

52RUT119jdr1writing-backgroundוַתֵּלַ֣כְנָה שְׁתֵּיהֶ֔ם עַד־בֹּאָ֖נָה בֵּ֣ית לָ֑חֶם1when they came to Bethlehem

This is a background clause, explaining that the new event took place after Naomi had returned to Bethlehem with Ruth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])

53RUT119y3usfigs-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]])

54RUT119abc3figs-hyperboleכָּל־הָ⁠עִיר֙1the entire town

Here entire is as generalization. Some of the residents of the town may not have been excited by this news. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

55RUT119xnb3הֲ⁠זֹ֥את 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.

56RUT120stw5אַל־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.

57RUT120swe9translate-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]])

58RUT121n9zcאֲנִי֙ מְלֵאָ֣ה הָלַ֔כְתִּי וְ⁠רֵיקָ֖ם הֱשִׁיבַ֣⁠נִי יְהוָ֑ה1I went out full, but Yahweh has caused me to return 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.

59RUT121jqx5עָ֣נָה בִ֔⁠י1has testified against me

has judged me guilty

60RUT121t1p8הֵ֥רַֽע לִֽ⁠י1has afflicted me

has brought calamity on me or has brought tragedy to me

61RUT122cx7gwriting-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]])

62RUT122jdr2writing-backgroundוְהֵ֗מָּה בָּ֚אוּ בֵּ֣ית לֶ֔חֶם בִּתְחִלַּ֖ת קְצִ֥יר שְׂעֹרִֽים׃1They came to Bethlehem at the beginning of the harvest of barley.

The sentence gives background information, explaining that Naomi and Ruth had arrived in Bethlehem around the time when the Israelites were starting to harvest their barley. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

63RUT122bgy3figs-abstractnounsבִּ⁠תְחִלַּ֖ת קְצִ֥יר שְׂעֹרִֽים1at the beginning of the harvest of barley

the barley harvest. The phrase the harvest of barley 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]])

64RUT2introld2v0

Ruth 02 General Notes

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Do not go to 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]])

65RUT21t2snwriting-participantsוּֽ⁠לְ⁠נָעֳמִ֞י מידע לְ⁠אִישָׁ֗⁠הּ1Now Naomi had a relative of her husband

This sentence introduces the next part of the story, in which Ruth meets Boaz. Boaz is introduced here as a new participant in the story. Your language may also have a specific way to introduce new events or new characters in a story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

66RUT21b4q7אִ֚ישׁ 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.

67RUT22am6aר֨וּת הַ⁠מּוֹאֲבִיָּ֜ה1Ruth, the Moabite woman

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

68RUT22c7rkהַ⁠מּוֹאֲבִיָּ֜ה1the Moabite woman

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

69RUT22qt4qוַ⁠אֲלַקֳטָּ֣ה בַ⁠שִׁבֳּלִ֔ים1and glean heads of grain

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

70RUT22abc5figs-metonymyאֲשֶׁ֥ר…בְּ⁠עֵינָ֑י⁠ו1in whose eyes

The eyes are a metonym that represents seeing, and seeing is a metaphor for thoughts and judgement. Alternate translation: “who will decide” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

71RUT22j59bfigs-idiomאֶמְצָא־ חֵ֖ן1I will find favor

The phrase will find favor is an idiom which means to be approved of by someone. Ruth speaks of gaining someones favor as gaining permission or approval. Alternate translation: “to be kind to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

72RUT22ed93בִתִּֽ⁠י1my 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.

73RUT23ht73וַ⁠יִּ֣קֶר מִקְרֶ֔⁠הָ1She happened to come

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

74RUT24vys2figs-informremindוְ⁠הִנֵּה1Behold,

The word Behold alerts us to the important event of Boaz arriving at the field and seeing Ruth for the first time. Your language may also have a specific way of alerting someone to pay careful attention to what happens next in the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-informremind]])

75RUT24q1lvבָּ֚א מִ⁠בֵּ֣ית לֶ֔חֶם1came from Bethlehem

The fields were an unspecified distance outside of Bethlehem.

76RUT24r4blיְבָרֶכְ⁠ךָ֥ יְהוָֽה1May Yahweh bless you

May Yahweh give you good things or May Yahweh make you happy

77RUT25a5htלְ⁠מִ֖י 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.

78RUT25sdf9הַ⁠נִּצָּ֖ב עַל1who was set over

who was in charge of or who was managing

79RUT27kj7aהַ⁠בַּ֖יִת1the house

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

80RUT28ltk3figs-rquestionהֲ⁠ל֧וֹא שָׁמַ֣עַתְּ בִּתִּ֗⁠י1Will you not listen to me, my daughter?

This can be stated 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]])

81RUT28ke9bfigs-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]])

82RUT29jq6nfigs-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]])

83RUT29xc6ufigs-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 not to harm you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

84RUT29ub62אֶת־הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֖ים1the young men

young male workers or servants. The words young men are used three times to refer to the young men who are harvesting in the field.

85RUT29v5e4לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֣י 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.

86RUT29ahr7מֵ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר 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.

87RUT210az6yוַ⁠תִּפֹּל֙ 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]])

88RUT210ug7pמַדּוּעַ֩ 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.

89RUT210abc7figs-idiomמָצָ֨אתִי חֵ֤ן1have I found 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. Alternate translation: “been kind to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

90RUT210abc8figs-metonymyבְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1in your eyes

The eyes are a metonym that represents seeing, and seeing is a metaphor for thoughts and judgement. Alternate translation: “that you decided” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

91RUT210x6f8נָכְרִיָּֽה1foreigner

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

92RUT211app6figs-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]])

93RUT211abc9figs-idiomהֻגֵּ֨ד הֻגַּ֜ד1It has surely been reported

Here two specific forms of the word for report are repeated in the original Hebrew text to emphasize the certainty of the statement. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

94RUT211r44nfigs-metonymyוַ⁠תֵּ֣לְכִ֔י אֶל־עַ֕ם1and have 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]])

95RUT212x5ctיְשַׁלֵּ֥ם יְהוָ֖ה פָּעֳלֵ֑⁠ךְ1May Yahweh reward your deed

May Yahweh repay you or May Yahweh pay you back

96RUT212s2vmפָּעֳלֵ֑⁠ךְ1your deed

This is an act of faith, choosing to leave her family and country and instead to live with Naomi in Bethlehem and trust Naomis God.

97RUT212gnn5figs-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]])

98RUT212eh86figs-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]])

99RUT213abc6figs-idiomאֶמְצָא־ חֵ֨ן1Let me find favor

Here find favor is an idiom that means be approved of or that he is pleased with her. Alternate translation: “Please be kind to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

100RUT213v2q1figs-metonymyבְּ⁠עֵינֶ֤י⁠ךָ1in your eyes

Here eyes are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing his evaluation. Alternate translation: “and accept me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

101RUT213abc4אֲדֹנִ⁠י֙1my master

Boaz is not Ruth's master, but he is the owner of the field where she is gleaning. He is also a Jew and a prominent man in the city. Therefore, Ruth is honoring him by calling him her master, and speaking of herself as his servant. Alternate translation: “Sir” or “my lord”

102RUT213zc5nוְ⁠אָנֹכִי֙ 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.

103RUT214yht2לְ⁠עֵ֣ת הָ⁠אֹ֗כֶל1At the time of the meal

This refers to the noontime meal.

104RUT214p256וְ⁠טָבַ֥לְתְּ 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.

105RUT214xr6sבַּ⁠חֹ֑מֶץ1the wine vinegar

The wine vinegar was a sauce into which they dipped bread. The Israelites further fermented some of their wine to make vinegar.

106RUT215v6wrfigs-explicitוַ⁠תָּ֖קָם 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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

107RUT215rct9וַ⁠תָּ֖קָם1When she got up

After she stood up

108RUT215a5z9 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 for fear that they might steal from the grain.

109RUT216u6hvשֹׁל־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

110RUT216nn9lוְ⁠לֹ֥א תִגְעֲרוּ־בָֽ⁠הּ1do not rebuke her

do not cause her shame or do not dishonor her

111RUT217h3apוַ⁠תַּחְבֹּט֙1Then she beat out

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

112RUT217mq6btranslate-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]])

113RUT218etn8figs-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]])

114RUT218r6szוַ⁠תֵּ֥רֶא חֲמוֹתָ֖⁠הּ1Then her mother-in-law saw

Then Naomi saw

115RUT219bg28figs-parallelismאֵיפֹ֨ה לִקַּ֤טְתְּ הַ⁠יּוֹם֙ וְ⁠אָ֣נָה עָשִׂ֔ית1Where have you gleaned today, and where did you work?

Naomi asked 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]])

116RUT220p8kmבָּר֥וּךְ הוּא֙ לַ⁠יהוָ֔ה1May he be blessed by Yahweh

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

117RUT220ur7zfigs-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]])

118RUT220ljz3figs-nominaladjאֶת־הַ⁠חַיִּ֖ים1to the living

Naomi and Ruth were the living. This can be stated differently to remove the nominal adjective the living. Alternate translation: “to the people who are still living” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

119RUT220wjr4figs-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]])

120RUT220cyy2figs-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]])

121RUT220zu5fמִֽ⁠גֹּאֲלֵ֖⁠נוּ1kinsman-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.

122RUT221k2lzגַּ֣ם׀ 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.

123RUT221g585עִם־הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֤ים אֲשֶׁר־לִ⁠י֙ תִּדְבָּקִ֔י⁠ן1You should keep close to the young men who are mine

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

124RUT222f2twתֵֽצְאִי֙ עִם1you go out with

you work with

125RUT222bcc4וְ⁠לֹ֥א 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.

126RUT223e2vqוַ⁠תִּדְבַּ֞ק1So she stayed close

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

127RUT223a7qpוַ⁠תֵּ֖שֶׁב אֶת־חֲמוֹתָֽ⁠הּ1She lived with her mother-in-law

Ruth went to Naomis home to sleep at night.

128RUT3introt4y50

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 it may be well with 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]])

129RUT31jdr3writing-neweventוַ⁠תֹּ֥אמֶר לָ֖⁠הּ נָעֳמִ֣י1Naomi…said to her,

This sentence introduces the next part of the story, in which Ruth asks Boaz to perform the role of kinsman-redeemer for her and Naomi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

130RUT31r7arחֲמוֹתָ֑⁠הּ1her mother-in-law

Naomi is the mother of Ruths dead husband.

131RUT31f1ucבִּתִּ֞⁠י1My daughter

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

132RUT31nxr8figs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֧א אֲבַקֶּשׁ־ לָ֛⁠ךְ מָנ֖וֹחַ אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִֽיטַב־ לָֽ⁠ךְ1should I not seek rest for you, so that it may be well 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, so that you will be taken care of.” or “I must find a husband to care for you, so that you can live without worry.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

133RUT31uw2pfigs-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]])

134RUT32jdr4grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה1Connecting Statement:

This phrase indicates that Naomi advises Ruth because she desires to find a resting place for Ruth (3:1). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

135RUT32j31tfigs-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]])

136RUT32b4h8figs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֥א בֹ֨עַז֙ מֹֽדַעְתָּ֔⁠נוּ1is Boaz not our kinsman?

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

137RUT32nd8vfigs-informremindהִנֵּה1Look

The word Look indicates that the following statement is very important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-informremind]])

138RUT32ms25זֹרֶ֛ה1is winnowing

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.

139RUT33ru6zוָ⁠סַ֗כְתְּ1and anoint yourself

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

140RUT33e92hfigs-idiomו⁠ירדתי הַ⁠גֹּ֑רֶן1and go 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]])

141RUT34jdr5grammar-connect-time-backgroundוִ⁠יהִ֣י בְ⁠שָׁכְב֗⁠וֹ1Then it will be that when he lies down,

This is a background clause, explaining when Ruth should watch to see where Boaz sleeps. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])

142RUT34ln1mtranslate-symactionוְ⁠גִלִּ֥ית מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י⁠ו1and uncover his feet

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

143RUT34l4weו⁠שכבתי1and lie down

and lie down at his feet

144RUT34w1u5וְ⁠הוּא֙ 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.

145RUT34nn4gוְ⁠הוּא֙ יַגִּ֣יד1Then he will tell

When he wakes up, he will tell

146RUT37fz7efigs-synecdocheוַ⁠יִּיטַ֣ב לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1and his heart was merry

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

147RUT37y6gkוַ⁠תָּבֹ֣א בַ⁠לָּ֔ט1Then she came quietly

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

148RUT37eq2uוַ⁠תְּגַ֥ל מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י⁠ו1and uncovered his feet

and removed his blanket from his feet

149RUT37pb6lוַ⁠תִּשְׁכָּֽב1and lay down

and lay down at his feet

150RUT38pz92grammar-connect-time-simultaneous וַ⁠יְהִי֙ בַּ⁠חֲצִ֣י הַ⁠לַּ֔יְלָה 1It came about in the middle of the night

This clause introduces a new event in the story, explaining when Boaz woke up. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

151RUT38xun6וַ⁠יֶּחֱרַ֥ד1that was startled

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

152RUT38c23jfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּלָּפֵ֑ת1He turned over

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

153RUT38e7uiאִשָּׁ֔ה שֹׁכֶ֖בֶת מַרְגְּלֹתָֽי⁠ו1a woman was lying at his feet

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

154RUT39wj9eאֲמָתֶ֔⁠ךָ-1your female servant

Ruth spoke with humility to Boaz.

155RUT39xp1bfigs-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]])

156RUT39l5g4גֹאֵ֖ל1a kinsman-redeemer

See how you translated this term in 2:20.

157RUT310bjw9הֵיטַ֛בְתְּ חַסְדֵּ֥⁠ךְ הָ⁠אַחֲר֖וֹן מִן־הָ⁠רִאשׁ֑וֹן1for you have showed more kindness at the end than from the beginning

even more kindness now than before

158RUT310e7kaהֵיטַ֛בְתְּ 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.

159RUT310cbd3הָ⁠רִאשׁ֑וֹן1from 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.

160RUT310n84dfigs-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]])

161RUT311jdr6grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה1Connecting Statement:

This phrase indicates that Boaz is motivated to perform the role of kinsman-redeemer because he has seen how much kindness Ruth has shown to Naomi (1:10). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

162RUT311ei93בִּתִּ⁠י֙1my daughter

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

163RUT312jdr7grammar-connect-logic-contrastוְ⁠עַתָּה֙1Connecting Statement:

This phrase indicates a contrast between Boazs willingness to marry Ruth and the possibility of another man marrying her instead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

164RUT312fvq5גֹּאֵ֖ל קָר֥וֹב מִמֶּֽ⁠נִּי1a kinsman-redeemer…nearer than I

It was the duty of the closest male relative to help the widow. See how you translated kinsman-redeemer in 2:20.

165RUT313gcl8figs-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]])

166RUT313tkz9חַי־יְהוָ֑ה1as Yahweh lives

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

167RUT314vn8pוַ⁠תִּשְׁכַּ֤ב מרגלת⁠ו1So she lay at his feet

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

168RUT314dwx1ב⁠טרום 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”

169RUT315hj1eהַ⁠מִּטְפַּ֧חַת1the shawl

a piece of cloth worn over the shoulders for warmth

170RUT315f5zgשֵׁשׁ־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.

171RUT315gdn8וַ⁠יָּ֣שֶׁת עָלֶ֔י⁠הָ1put it on her

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

172RUT315aj7uוַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א 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.

173RUT316s7drfigs-idiomמִי־אַ֣תְּ בִּתִּ֑⁠י1How did it go, my daughter?

The meaning of this question is not clear. The literal Hebrew idiom is Who are you? It may mean 1) What happened, my daughter? or 2) Did Boaz agree to marry you? (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

174RUT316w9p9אֵ֛ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָֽשָׂה־לָ֖⁠הּ הָ⁠אִֽישׁ1all that the man had done for her

all that Boaz had done for her

175RUT317e9xxאַל־תָּב֥וֹאִי רֵיקָ֖ם1Do not go empty-handed

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

176RUT317abcaשֵׁשׁ־ הַ⁠שְּׂעֹרִ֥ים1six measures of barley

See how you translated this in 3:15.

177RUT318u5rnאִם־כִּלָּ֥ה הַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר1he has finished this thing

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

178RUT4intropz6m0

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 acquire Ruth the Moabite woman

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.

179RUT41jdr8writing-neweventוּ⁠בֹ֨עַז עָלָ֣ה הַ⁠שַּׁעַר֮1Now Boaz went up to the gate

This clause introduces the next part of the story, in which Boaz performs the role of kinsman-redeemer and marries Ruth. (See: [[rc:en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

180RUT41m4byהַ⁠שַּׁעַר֮1to the gate

to the gate of the city or to 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.

181RUT41jdr9figs-informremindוְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה1Behold,

The word Behold alerts us to the important event of Boaz sitting down at the gate and seeing the exact person he wanted to see walking by. Your language may also have a specific way of alerting someone to pay careful attention to what happens next in the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-informremind]])

182RUT41kz1gהַ⁠גֹּאֵ֤ל1the kinsman-redeemer

This was the closest living relative to Elimelek. See how you translated kinsman-redeemer in 2:20.

183RUT42bf74מִ⁠זִּקְנֵ֥י הָ⁠עִ֖יר1from the elders of the city

from the leaders of the city

184RUT43es9gחֶלְקַת֙ 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.

185RUT44c6xiנֶ֥גֶד1in front of

in the presence of. This would make the transaction legal and binding.

186RUT44lgq1גְּאָ֔ל1redeem it

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

187RUT44u548וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י אַחֲרֶ֑י⁠ךָ1and I am after you

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

188RUT45ut23בְּ⁠יוֹם־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.

189RUT45ymn8figs-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]])

190RUT45dya3figs-idiomוּ֠⁠מֵ⁠אֵת ר֣וּת…קניתי1you must also acquire Ruth

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

191RUT45b3psאֵֽשֶׁת־ הַ⁠מֵּת֙1the wife of the dead man

the widow of Elimeleks son who died

192RUT45b3syלְ⁠הָקִ֥ים 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

193RUT45figs-nominaladjהַ⁠מֵּ֖ת1the dead

Ruth's husband was the dead. This can be stated differently to remove the nominal adjective the dead. Alternate translation: “the man who died” of “her husband who died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

194RUT46sx9kאַשְׁחִ֖ית אֶת־נַחֲלָתִ֑⁠י1damaging my own inheritance

If he married Ruth, he would have to give some of his own wealth to the children that Ruth might bear.

195RUT46sa7hגְּאַל־לְ⁠ךָ֤ אַתָּה֙ אֶת־גְּאֻלָּתִ֔⁠י1You redeem for yourself my right of redemption

You yourself redeem it instead of me

196RUT47wga9writing-backgroundוְ⁠זֹאת֩1Now it was thus

Now 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]])

197RUT47lgf5writing-backgroundלְ⁠פָנִ֨ים1in former times

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

198RUT47d46wלְ⁠רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ1to the other

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

199RUT49zz42figs-hyperboleלַ⁠זְּקֵנִ֜ים וְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֗ם1to the elders and to all the people

This is a generalization. It refers to all the people who were present at the meeting place, not to everyone in the town. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

200RUT49img5כָּל־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.

201RUT49lwx9figs-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]])

202RUT410jdr0Grammar-connect-words-phrases1Connecting Statement:

This statement indicates that the people sitting at the gate are witnesses both to the fact that Boaz is claiming Ruth to be his wife and to the fact that he is buying back Elimilechs family land for Naomi (1:9).

203RUT410nm32לְ⁠הָקִ֤ים 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”

204RUT410gg1mfigs-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]])

205RUT410xpu5וּ⁠מִ⁠שַּׁ֣עַר מְקוֹמ֑⁠וֹ1and from the 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.

206RUT411ua2aהָ⁠עָ֧ם אֲשֶׁר־בַּ⁠שַּׁ֛עַר1the people who were in the gate

people who were meeting together near the gate

207RUT411hg6qfigs-metaphorהַ⁠בָּאָ֣ה אֶל־בֵּיתֶ֗⁠ךָ1who is 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]])

208RUT411q47mכְּ⁠רָחֵ֤ל׀ וּ⁠כְ⁠לֵאָה֙1like Rachel and Leah

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

209RUT411cz4tבָּנ֤וּ…אֶת־בֵּ֣ית יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1built up the house of Israel

bore many children who became the nation of Israel

210RUT411abcbfigs-parallelismוַ⁠עֲשֵׂה־ חַ֣יִל בְּ⁠אֶפְרָ֔תָה וּ⁠קְרָא־ שֵׁ֖ם בְּ⁠בֵ֥ית לָֽחֶם1and may you prosper in Ephrathah and be renowned in Bethlehem

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

211RUT411uk9qוַ⁠עֲשֵׂה־חַ֣יִל בְּ⁠אֶפְרָ֔תָה1may you prosper in Ephrathah

Ephrathah was the name of the wife of Caleb, from whom the inhabitants of Bethlehem descended. It is another name for the town of Bethehem.

212RUT412fn52figs-metaphorוִ⁠יהִ֤י בֵֽיתְ⁠ךָ֙ כְּ⁠בֵ֣ית פֶּ֔רֶץ אֲשֶׁר־ יָלְדָ֥ה תָמָ֖ר לִֽ⁠יהוּדָ֑ה1May your house be like the house of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah

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]])

213RUT412a433יָלְדָ֥ה תָמָ֖ר לִֽ⁠יהוּדָ֑ה1Tamar bore to Judah

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

214RUT412xym8מִן־הַ⁠זֶּ֗רַע אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִתֵּ֤ן יְהוָה֙ לְ⁠ךָ֔1through the offspring whom Yahweh will give you

Yahweh would give Boaz children through Ruth.

215RUT412abccfigs-parallelismוַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח בֹּ֤עַז אֶת־ רוּת֙ וַ⁠תְּהִי־ ל֣⁠וֹ לְ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה1So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife

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

216RUT413u21gוַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח בֹּ֤עַז אֶת־רוּת֙1So Boaz took Ruth

So Boaz married Ruth or So Boaz took Ruth as a wife

217RUT413gw77figs-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]])

218RUT414qj8vfigs-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 kinsman to redeem you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

219RUT414p8p3וְ⁠יִקָּרֵ֥א שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ1May his name be famous

This refers to the reputation and character of Naomis grandson.

220RUT415hz3eלְ⁠מֵשִׁ֣יב נֶ֔פֶשׁ1one who restores 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”

221RUT415z5lwוּ⁠לְ⁠כַלְכֵּ֖ל אֶת־שֵׂיבָתֵ֑⁠ךְ1and a nourisher of your old age

and he will take care of you when you become old

222RUT415rpc3figs-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]])

223RUT416k1w4וַ⁠תִּקַּ֨ח 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.

224RUT416jn29וַ⁠תְּשִׁתֵ֣⁠הוּ בְ⁠חֵיקָ֔⁠הּ1laid him in her bosom

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

225RUT417fkf2יֻלַּד־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.

226RUT417f9hafigs-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]])

227RUT418mzm1תּוֹלְד֣וֹת פָּ֔רֶץ1the generations 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.

228RUT419rl3ktranslate-namesוְ⁠חֶצְרוֹן֙…רָ֔ם1Hezron…Ram

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

229RUT422abcdfigs-explicitאֶת־ דָּוִֽד1David

father of King David. See the note about David on 4:17