unfoldingWord_en_tn/en_tn_08-RUT.tsv

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2RUTfrontintrof68r0# Introduction to Ruth<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of Ruth<br><br>1. How Ruth came to Bethlehem with Naomi (1:122)<br>1. Boaz helps Ruth as she gleans (2:123)<br>1. Boaz and Ruth at the threshing floor (3:118)<br>1. How Ruth became the wife of Boaz (4:116)<br>1. Obed born to Ruth and Boaz; the genealogy of David (4:1322)<br><br>### What is the Book of Ruth about?<br><br>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.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>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]])<br><br>### When did the events in the Book of Ruth occur?<br><br>The story of Ruth is set during the time when there were **judges** in Israel. This was after the people of Israel had entered into the land of Canaan, but before they had a king. The “judges” 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.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Why does Scripture include a book about a woman from the foreign land of Moab?<br><br>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]])<br><br>### What important marriage custom is found in the Book of Ruth?<br><br>Israelites practiced what is called **levirate marriage**. In this custom, the closest male relative of a man who died without any children was obligated to provide for his widow by marrying her. Usually this would be one of the mans brothers. Any children born to them were to be regarded as children of the dead man. They did this so that the dead man would have descendants. If the closest relative did not marry the woman, another relative could fulfil this obligation.<br><br>### What was a **kinsman-redeemer**?<br><br>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, fulfil obligations of **levirate marriage**, and buy back land into the family that had been sold to someone outside of the family. In the Book of Ruth, Boaz is one such kinsman-redeemer.<br><br>### What was **gleaning** in the Book of Ruth?<br><br>In Israel, poor people were allowed to follow after the men who harvested a field. These **gleaners** picked up stalks 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.<br><br>### What is covenant faithfulness or covenant loyalty?<br><br>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 the covenant that they had made. God made a covenant with Israel, in which he promised that he would love and be faithful to the Israelites. The Israelites were to do the same toward him and toward each other.<br><br>The Book of Ruth shows that what kinsmen-redeemers do for their relatives is part of Israels duties in Gods covenant with them. The story of Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi gives examples to all of Israel of the good effects of covenant faithfulness. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenantfaith]])<br><br>### What function did city gates have in the ancient Near East?<br><br>City gates in the time of Boaz were meeting places for the city elders. Elders were honored men who decided business matters and legal matters together. The city walls were thick, especially at the entryways, and the gates had guard towers beside and above them. Therefore the gateway opening provided a large shady area for public meetings, and there were places for important people to sit. For this reason, Boaz and the other elders sat in the gateway.<br><br>Some English Bible versions speak of Boaz sitting **at** the city gate, but it may be best for translators to make clear that Boaz sat **in** the city gateway.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How does the Book of Ruth change from one topic to another topic?<br><br>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<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### **It happened in the days when the judges ruled**<br><br>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.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Women without a husband or children<br><br>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.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Contrast<br><br>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-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֗י1Now it 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 of the ruling of the judges**during the time when judges led and governed Israel** (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
6RUT11nm13figs-explicitבָּ⁠אָ֑רֶץ1in the landThis 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 from Bethlehem of JudahThe name **Ephrathites** refers to the people from the clan of Ephrathah, who lived in the area around Bethlehem. Alternate translation: “from the clan of Ephrathah, from Bethlehem, in Judah.”
9RUT13rxb1הִ֖יא וּ⁠שְׁנֵ֥י בָנֶֽי⁠הָ׃1she was left, her and her two sons**Naomi had only her two sons remaining 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 MoabNaomis sons married women who were from the tribe of Moab. The Moabites worshiped other gods.
12RUT14aee6שֵׁ֤ם הָֽ⁠אַחַת֙…וְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֖י1the name of the first woman was … and the name of the second woman was**the name of one woman was … the name of the other woman was**
13RUT14rt4cכְּ⁠עֶ֥שֶׂר שָׁנִֽים1for about ten yearsAbout ten years after Elimelek and Naomi came to the country of Moab, their sons Mahlon and Kilion died.
14RUT15dbr3וַ⁠תִּשָּׁאֵר֙ הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה מִ⁠שְּׁנֵ֥י יְלָדֶ֖י⁠הָ וּ⁠מֵ⁠אִישָֽׁ⁠הּ1the woman was left without her two children or her husbandNaomi was widowed and both her sons died.
15RUT16u9q2וְ⁠כַלֹּתֶ֔י⁠הָ1her daughters-in-lawthe women who married Naomis sons
16RUT16sa4zfigs-explicitשָֽׁמְעָה֙ בִּ⁠שְׂדֵ֣ה מוֹאָ֔ב1she had heard in a field of Moab**she had heard while still in the country of Moab**. It is implied that the news came from Israel. Alternate translation: “she had heard from someone who came from Israel while she was in the region of Moab” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
17RUT16ser2יְהוָה֙1YahwehThis is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament.
18RUT16v86zפָקַ֤ד…אֶת־עַמּ֔⁠וֹ1had visited his peopleGod saw their need and provided good harvests for them. Alternate translation: “had helped the Israelites”
19RUT16ab01figs-idiomלָ⁠תֵ֥ת לָ⁠הֶ֖ם לָֽחֶם׃1giving them bread**Bread** here refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “giving them abundant harvests, so that they had plenty of food.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
20RUT17w7tifigs-idiomוַ⁠תֵּלַ֣כְנָה בַ⁠דֶּ֔רֶךְ1and they traveled down the road**and they walked along the road**. To walk down a road means to travel along it by foot.
21RUT18fu39לִ⁠שְׁתֵּ֣י כַלֹּתֶ֔י⁠הָ1her two daughters-in-law**her two sons wives** or **the widows of her two sons**
22RUT18lxs2figs-youאִשָּׁ֖ה1each womanNaomi 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]])
23RUT18hsf7לְ⁠בֵ֣ית אִמָּ֑⁠הּ1to the house of her mother**to the home of each of your mothers**
24RUT18i262חֶ֔סֶד1covenant faithfulness**covenant faithfulness** is what someone does who is fulfilling all of his obligations and loyalties to another person. See the discussion in the introduction.
25RUT18g4r8figs-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]])
26RUT18acb4figs-nominaladjהַ⁠מֵּתִ֖ים1the dead**your husbands, who died** (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
27RUT19pm6yיִתֵּ֤ן יְהוָה֙ לָ⁠כֶ֔ם וּ⁠מְצֶ֣אןָ1May Yahweh grant to you that you shall find**May Yahweh give you** or **May Yahweh allow you to have**
28RUT19c74vfigs-metaphorוּ⁠מְצֶ֣אןָ מְנוּחָ֔ה1that you shall find rest**Rest** here does not refer to sitting down to rest. It means a place where these women would belong, a home for them, which would include the security that comes through marriage. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
29RUT19v2vxfigs-metonymyבֵּ֣ית אִישָׁ֑⁠הּ1in the house of her husbandThis means with new husbands, not with their previous husbands who died or with someone elses husband. **House** refers to both a physical house that belongs to the husband, and to the protection from shame and poverty that a husband provides. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
30RUT19t69wfigs-idiomוַ⁠תִּשֶּׂ֥אנָה קוֹלָ֖⁠ן וַ⁠תִּבְכֶּֽינָה1and they lifted up their voices and criedTo 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]])
31RUT110mag8figs-exclusiveנָשׁ֖וּב1we will returnWhen 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]])
32RUT110bq4jfigs-youאִתָּ֥⁠ךְ1with youHere **you** is the singular form referring to Naomi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
33RUT111ggi3figs-rquestionלָ֥⁠מָּה תֵלַ֖כְנָה עִמִּ֑⁠י1Why would 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]])
34RUT111q2hnfigs-rquestionהַֽ⁠עֽוֹד־לִ֤⁠י בָנִים֙ בְּֽ⁠מֵעַ֔⁠י וְ⁠הָי֥וּ לָ⁠כֶ֖ם לַ⁠אֲנָשִֽׁים1Do I still have sons in my womb, that they may become your husbands?This is a rhetorical question. Naomi uses this question to say that 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]])
35RUT112dyc4figs-explicitזָקַ֖נְתִּי מִ⁠הְי֣וֹת לְ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1I am too old to belong to a husbandThe 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]])
36RUT112abc1figs-rquestionכִּ֤י אָמַ֨רְתִּי֙ יֶשׁ־לִ֣⁠י תִקְוָ֔ה גַּ֣ם הָיִ֤יתִי הַ⁠לַּ֨יְלָה֙ לְ⁠אִ֔ישׁ וְ⁠גַ֖ם יָלַ֥דְתִּי בָנִֽים1If I said I have hope, if I belonged to a husband even tonight, and even if I would give birth to sons,This rhetorical question begins here and continues into the next verse. Naomi uses this question to say that she cannot have other sons for them to marry. Alternate translation: “Even if it were possible that I could expect to marry right away and also give birth to sons right away,…” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
37RUT112kh9gיָלַ֥דְתִּי בָנִֽים1would give birth to sons**bear children** or **deliver baby boys**
38RUT113gmc2figs-rquestionאֲשֶׁ֣ר יִגְדָּ֔לוּ הֲ⁠לָהֵן֙ תֵּֽעָגֵ֔נָה לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֖י הֱי֣וֹת לְ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1would you therefore wait until the time when they are grown? Would you for this reason keep yourselves from belonging a husband?Naomi completes the rhetorical question she began in the previous verse, and asks a second rhetorical 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 need to marry a husband before then.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
39RUT113ab04אֲשֶׁ֣ר יִגְדָּ֔לוּ הֲ⁠לָהֵן֙ תֵּֽעָגֵ֔נָה לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֖י הֱי֣וֹת לְ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1would you therefore wait until the time when they are grown? Would you for this reason keep yourselves from belonging a husband?This refers to the practice of levirate marriage, in which it is expected that, if a married man dies, one of his brothers will marry the mans widow. See the introduction for more explanation.
40RUT113gh99figs-metaphorמַר־לִ֤⁠י מְאֹד֙1it is exceedingly bitter for meBitterness is a metaphor for grief. Alternate translation: “It greatly grieves me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
41RUT113z9u3figs-metonymyיָצְאָ֥ה בִ֖⁠י יַד־יְהוָֽה1the hand of Yahweh has gone out against meThe 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]])
42RUT113ab02figs-explicitיָצְאָ֥ה בִ֖⁠י יַד־יְהוָֽה1the hand of Yahweh has gone out against meWhat Yahweh has done can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has taken away our husbands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
43RUT114n47vfigs-idiomוַ⁠תִּשֶּׂ֣נָה קוֹלָ֔⁠ן וַ⁠תִּבְכֶּ֖ינָה1Then they lifted up their voices and criedThis means that they cried out loud or wept bitterly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
44RUT114t4slfigs-explicitוְ⁠ר֖וּת דָּ֥בְקָה בָּֽ⁠הּ1but Ruth clung 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]])
45RUT115ld6gהִנֵּה֙1Look**Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important**
46RUT115nqm3writing-participantsיְבִמְתֵּ֔⁠ךְ1your sister-in-law**the wife of your husbands brother** or **Orpah**. Use the most natural way in your language to refer to this person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
47RUT115man4אֱלֹהֶ֑י⁠הָ1her godsBefore 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.
48RUT116z5ugוּ⁠בַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֤ר תָּלִ֨ינִי֙1where you stay**where you live**
49RUT116b518figs-explicitעַמֵּ֣⁠ךְ עַמִּ֔⁠י1your people are my peopleRuth 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]])
50RUT117lql7figs-idiomבַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֤ר תָּמ֨וּתִי֙ אָמ֔וּת1Where you die, I will dieThis 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]])
51RUT117sje3figs-idiomיַעֲשֶׂ֨ה יְהוָ֥ה לִ⁠י֙ וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יֹסִ֔יף כִּ֣י1May Yahweh do thus to me, and and thus may he addThis is an idiom that Ruth uses to show that she is very committed to doing what she says. She is making a curse on herself, asking God to punish her if she does not do what she has said. Use the form that your language uses to do this. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
52RUT117abc2כִּ֣י הַ⁠מָּ֔וֶת יַפְרִ֖יד בֵּינִ֥⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֵֽ⁠ךְ1if 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**
53RUT117ab05figs-idiomיַפְרִ֖יד בֵּינִ֥⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֵֽ⁠ךְ1separates between me and between youThis is an idiom that refers to the space between two people. Alternate translation: “separates the two of us” or “comes between us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
54RUT118rsq2וַ⁠תֶּחְדַּ֖ל לְ⁠דַבֵּ֥ר אֵלֶֽי⁠הָ1she refrained from speaking to her**Naomi stopped arguing with Ruth**
55RUT119j9wawriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֗י1So the two of them traveled until they came to BethlehemThis sentence introduces a new event in the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
56RUT119jdr1grammar-connect-time-backgroundכְּ⁠בֹאָ֨⁠נָה֙ בֵּ֣ית לֶ֔חֶם1when they came to BethlehemThis 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]])
57RUT119y3usfigs-metonymyכָּל־הָ⁠עִיר֙1the entire townThe **town** refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “everyone in the town” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
58RUT119abc3figs-hyperboleכָּל־הָ⁠עִיר֙1the entire townHere **entire** is hyperbole. Many of the residents of the town were excited, but some of the residents may not have been excited by this news. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
59RUT119xnb3הֲ⁠זֹ֥את נָעֳמִֽי1Is this Naomi?Since it had been many years since Naomi lived in Bethlehem and now she no longer has her husband and two sons, it is likely that the women were expressing doubt that this woman was actually Naomi. Treat this as a real question, not a rhetorical one.
60RUT120stw5אַל־תִּקְרֶ֥אנָה לִ֖⁠י נָעֳמִ֑י1Do not call me NaomiThe name **Naomi** means **my delight**. Since Naomi lost her husband and sons, she no longer feels that her life matches her name.
61RUT120swe9translate-namesמָרָ֔א1MaraThis is a literal rendering of a Hebrew name meaning “bitter.” Since it is a name, you may choose to use the English form, which is **Bitter**, and use a footnote to explain that the English term gives the meaning of the Hebrew name (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
62RUT121n9zcאֲנִי֙ מְלֵאָ֣ה הָלַ֔כְתִּי וְ⁠רֵיקָ֖ם הֱשִׁיבַ֣⁠נִי יְהוָ֑ה1I went out full, but Yahweh has caused me to return emptyWhen Naomi left Bethlehem, she had her husband and her two sons, 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.
63RUT121jqx5עָ֣נָה בִ֔⁠י1has testified against me**has judged me guilty**
64RUT121t1p8הֵ֥רַֽע לִֽ⁠י1has done evil to me**has brought calamity on me** or **has brought tragedy to me**
65RUT122cx7gwriting-endofstoryוַ⁠תָּ֣שָׁב נָעֳמִ֗י וְ⁠ר֨וּת1So Naomi returned, with RuthThis begins a summary statement. English marks this by the word **So**. Determine how your language marks concluding or summary statements and follow that way here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])
66RUT122jdr2writing-backgroundוְ⁠הֵ֗מָּה בָּ֚אוּ בֵּ֣ית לֶ֔חֶם בִּ⁠תְחִלַּ֖ת קְצִ֥יר שְׂעֹרִֽים1And they 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]])
67RUT122bgy3figs-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]])
68RUT2introld2v0# Ruth 02 General Notes<br><br>## Possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### **Do not go to glean in another field**<br><br>Boaz said this because he could not guarantee Ruths safety in another persons field. It seems that not everyone was as gracious and obedient to the law of Moses as Boaz was. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
69RUT21ab10writing-backgroundוּֽ⁠לְ⁠נָעֳמִ֞י מוֹדַ֣ע לְ⁠אִישָׁ֗⁠הּ1Now Naomi had a relative of her husbandVerse 1 gives background information about Boaz so that the reader will understand who he is. Your language may also have a specific way to give background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
70RUT21t2snwriting-participantsוּֽ⁠לְ⁠נָעֳמִ֞י מוֹדַ֣ע לְ⁠אִישָׁ֗⁠הּ1Now Naomi had a relative of her husbandThis 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]])
71RUT21b4q7אִ֚ישׁ גִּבּ֣וֹר חַ֔יִל1a man of great worth**a prominent, wealthy man**. This means that Boaz was prosperous and well known in his community, with a good reputation.
72RUT21ab09מִ⁠מִּשְׁפַּ֖חַת אֱלִימֶ֑לֶךְ1from the clan of ElimelekThe use of the term **clan** here means that Boaz was related to Elimelek but did not have the same parents as Elimelek. The text is not saying that the clan was named after Elimelek or that Elimelek was the patriarch or leader of the clan.
73RUT22am6aר֨וּת הַ⁠מּוֹאֲבִיָּ֜ה1Ruth, the Moabite womanHere the story resumes. Indicate this in the way that your language restarts telling the events of a story after giving background information.
74RUT22c7rkהַ⁠מּוֹאֲבִיָּ֜ה1the Moabite womanThis is another way of saying that the woman was from the country or tribe of Moab.
75RUT22qt4qוַ⁠אֲלַקֳטָּ֣ה בַ⁠שִׁבֳּלִ֔ים1and glean heads of grain**and gather heads of grain left behind by the harvesters** or **and pick up heads of grain left behind by the harvesters**
76RUT22j59bfigs-idiomאֶמְצָא־חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָ֑י⁠ו1In whose eyes I find favorThe phrase **in whose eyes I will find favor** is an idiom which means “whoever will approve of me.” Ruth speaks of gaining someones favor as gaining permission or approval. Alternate translation: “who will be kind to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
77RUT22abc5figs-metaphorבְּ⁠עֵינָ֑י⁠ו1in whose eyesThe **eyes** are a metonym that represents seeing, and seeing is a metaphor for knowledge, notice, attention, or judgment. Alternate translation: “who will decide [to be kind to me]” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
78RUT22ed93בִתִּֽ⁠י1my daughterRuth was caring for Naomi as if she were her own mother, and Naomi addressed Ruth affectionately as her daughter. If this is confusing in your language, use the term that would indicate this kind of close relationship between two women in your language.
79RUT23ht73וַ⁠יִּ֣קֶר מִקְרֶ֔⁠הָ1by chanceThis means that Ruth was not aware that the field that she picked to glean in belonged to Naomis relative Boaz.
80RUT23ab11מִ⁠מִּשְׁפַּ֥חַת אֱלִימֶֽלֶךְ1from the clan of ElimelekThe use of the term **clan** here means that Boaz was related to Elimelek but did not have the same parents as Elimelek. The text is not saying that the clan was named after Elimelek or that Elimelek was the patriarch or leader of the clan.
81RUT24vys2figs-distinguishוְ⁠הִנֵּה1Then behold,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-distinguish]])
82RUT24q1lvבָּ֚א מִ⁠בֵּ֣ית לֶ֔חֶם1coming from BethlehemThe fields were an unspecified distance outside of Bethlehem.
83RUT24r4blיְבָרֶכְ⁠ךָ֥ יְהוָֽה1May Yahweh bless you**May Yahweh do good things for you**. This is a general blessing.
84RUT25a5htלְ⁠מִ֖י הַ⁠נַּעֲרָ֥ה הַ⁠זֹּֽאת1Who does this young woman belong to?In that culture, women were under the authority of their male relatives. Boaz was asking who Ruths husband or father might be. He did not think that Ruth was a slave.
85RUT25ab16לְ⁠נַעֲר֔⁠וֹ1to his servantThis **servant** was a young man who worked for Boaz and who told the rest of Boazs workers what to do.
86RUT25sdf9הַ⁠נִּצָּ֖ב עַל1who was set over**who was in charge of** or **who was managing**
87RUT27ab17אֲלַקֳטָה־נָּא֙1Please let me gleanTo **glean** meant to pick up grain or other produce that the workers dropped or missed as they were harvesting. This was part of the law that God gave to Moses, that the workers should not go back over the field for this produce, so that it would be left in the field for the poor or for foreign travelers to pick up. See verses such as Leviticus 19:10 and Deuteronomy 24:21.
88RUT27kj7aהַ⁠בַּ֖יִת1the house**the hut** or **the shelter**. This was a temporary shelter or garden hut in the field that provided shade from the sun where the workers could rest.
89RUT28ltk3figs-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]])
90RUT28ke9bfigs-idiomבִּתִּ֗⁠י1my daughterThis was a kind way to address a younger woman. Ruth was not the actual daughter of Boaz, but he was treating her kindly and respectfully. Use the term that communicates this in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
91RUT29jq6nfigs-metonymyעֵינַ֜יִ⁠ךְ בַּ⁠שָּׂדֶ֤ה1Keep your eyes on the fieldThe **eyes** are a metonym that represents seeing. Alternate translation: “Watch only the field” or “Pay attention only to the field” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
92RUT29xc6ufigs-rquestionהֲ⁠ל֥וֹא צִוִּ֛יתִי אֶת־הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֖ים לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֣י נָגְעֵ֑⁠ךְ1Have I not instructed the young men not to touch you?Boaz used this question to emphasize his hospitality—that he had already made provision to help Ruth. Alternate translation: “I have given the men strict instructions not to harm you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
93RUT29ub62אֶת־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.
94RUT29v5e4לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֣י נָגְעֵ֑⁠ךְ1not to touch youThis was a polite way of saying that the men were not to harm Ruth physically or assault her sexually, and possibly also that the men were not to stop her from gleaning in his field. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
95RUT29ahr7מֵ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִשְׁאֲב֖וּ⁠ן הַ⁠נְּעָרִֽים1from what the young men drawTo draw water means to pull up water from a well or to take it out of a storage vessel.
96RUT210az6ytranslate-symactionוַ⁠תִּפֹּל֙ עַל־פָּנֶ֔י⁠הָ וַ⁠תִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ אָ֑רְצָ⁠ה1Then she fell on her face and bowed down to the groundThese 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]])
97RUT210ab12figs-doubletוַ⁠תִּפֹּל֙ עַל־פָּנֶ֔י⁠הָ וַ⁠תִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ אָ֑רְצָ⁠ה1Then she fell on her face and bowed down to the groundThese are two descriptions of a single action. If this is confusing in your language, use only one description, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
98RUT210ab13figs-idiomוַ⁠תִּפֹּל֙ עַל־פָּנֶ֔י⁠הָ1Then she fell on her faceThis is an idiom that means that she bowed low with her face to the ground. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
99RUT210ug7pמַדּוּעַ֩ 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.
100RUT210abc7figs-idiomמָצָ֨אתִי חֵ֤ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1have I found favor in your eyesThe phrase **found favor in your eyes** is an idiom which means “you have approved of” someone. Ruth speaks of gaining someones favor as gaining their kindness or approval. Alternate translation: “you have been kind to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
101RUT210abc8figs-metaphorבְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1in your eyesThe **eyes** are a metonym that represents seeing, and seeing is a metaphor for knowledge, notice, attention, or judgment. Alternate translation: “in your judgment” or “that you decided” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
102RUT210x6f8נָכְרִיָּֽה1foreignerA **foreigner** is someone from another country. Even though Ruth had pledged her loyalty to the God of Israel in private, everyone knew that she was from Moab, not Israel. Often Israelites were not kind to foreigners, even though God wanted them to be kind to them. This shows that Boaz was living to please God.
103RUT211ab14figs-doubletוַ⁠יַּ֤עַן בֹּ֨עַז֙ וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר1Boaz answered and saidBoth **answered** and **said** describe the same action. If this is confusing in your language, you may want to use only one verb for this, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
104RUT211app6figs-activepassiveהֻגֵּ֨ד הֻגַּ֜ד לִ֗⁠י1Everything … has fully been reported to meThis 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]])
105RUT211abc9figs-idiomהֻגֵּ֨ד הֻגַּ֜ד1Everything … has fully been reportedHere two forms of the word for **report** are repeated in the original Hebrew text to emphasize the certainty or extent of the statement. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
106RUT211r44nfigs-metonymyוַ⁠תֵּ֣לְכִ֔י אֶל־עַ֕ם1and you came to a peopleBoaz is referring to Ruth coming to dwell with Naomi in a village and community, a country, and religion that she did not know. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
107RUT211ab60figs-idiomתְּמ֥וֹל שִׁלְשֽׁוֹם׃1the day before yesterdayThis is an idiom that means “recently” or “previously”
108RUT212x5ctיְשַׁלֵּ֥ם יְהוָ֖ה פָּעֳלֵ֑⁠ךְ1May Yahweh reward your work**May Yahweh repay you** or **May Yahweh pay you back**
109RUT212s2vmפָּעֳלֵ֑⁠ךְ1your workThis refers to everything that Boaz has just described in verse 11. Alternate translation: “your good deeds.”
110RUT212gnn5figs-parallelismוּ⁠תְהִ֨י מַשְׂכֻּרְתֵּ֜⁠ךְ שְׁלֵמָ֗ה מֵ⁠עִ֤ם יְהוָה֙1may your full wages come from YahwehThis is a poetic expression that is very similar to the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “May Yahweh fully give to you everything that you deserve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]], [Doublet](../figs-doublet/01.md))
111RUT212eh86figs-metaphorאֲשֶׁר־בָּ֖את לַ⁠חֲס֥וֹת תַּֽחַת־כְּנָפָֽי⁠ו1under whose wings you have come for refugeThis is a metaphor that uses the picture of a mother bird gathering her chicks under her wings to protect them as a way 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]])
112RUT213abc6figs-idiomאֶמְצָא־חֵ֨ן1May I find favorHere **find favor** is an idiom that means be approved of or that he is pleased with her. Alternate translation: “May you continue to approve of me” or “May you continue to be pleased with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
113RUT213v2q1figs-metaphorבְּ⁠עֵינֶ֤י⁠ךָ1in your eyesThe **eyes** are a metonym that represents seeing, and seeing is a metaphor for knowledge, notice, attention, or judgment. Alternate translation: “and accept me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
114RUT213abc4אֲדֹנִ⁠י֙1my lordBoaz is not Ruths 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 **lord**, and speaking of herself as his servant. Alternate translation: “Sir” or “master”
115RUT213zc5nוְ⁠אָנֹכִי֙ לֹ֣א אֶֽהְיֶ֔ה כְּ⁠אַחַ֖ת שִׁפְחֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ1But as for me, I am not even like one of your female servantsRuth is expressing surprise and gratitude that Boaz is treating her as if she belongs among his workers, when she does not.
116RUT214yht2לְ⁠עֵ֣ת הָ⁠אֹ֗כֶל1At the time of the mealThis refers to the midday meal.
117RUT214p256וְ⁠טָבַ֥לְתְּ פִּתֵּ֖⁠ךְ בַּ⁠חֹ֑מֶץ1dip your piece in the vinegarThis 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 pieces of broken bread. They would take a piece of bread and dip it in the wine vinegar to add flavor before they ate it.
118RUT214xr6sבַּ⁠חֹ֑מֶץ1the vinegarThe **vinegar** was a sauce into which they dipped bread. The Israelites made vinegar from grape juice that was fermented beyond the point of being wine. At the vinegar stage, the juice becomes very sour and acidic.
119RUT215v6wrfigs-explicitוַ⁠תָּ֖קָם לְ⁠לַקֵּ֑ט וַ⁠יְצַו֩ בֹּ֨עַז אֶת־נְעָרָ֜י⁠ו1Then she got up to glean. Then Boaz commanded his young menWhen Boaz spoke to his workers, 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]])
120RUT215rct9וַ⁠תָּ֖קָם1Then she got up**After she stood up**
121RUT215a5z9גַּ֣ם בֵּ֧ין הָֽ⁠עֳמָרִ֛ים1even among the bundlesHere, the word **even** lets the workers know that they are to do above and beyond what they normally do. People who were gleaning were normally forbidden from working close to the harvested grain for fear that they might steal from the grain that was already harvested. But Boaz instructs his workers to let Ruth glean close to the bundles of grain.
122RUT216u6hvשֹׁל־תָּשֹׁ֥לּוּ לָ֖⁠הּ מִן־הַ⁠צְּבָתִ֑ים1pull some out from the bundles for her**take some stalks of grain out of the bundles and leave them for her** or **leave behind stalks of grain for her to collect**. Here Boaz goes another step beyond what is normal, and tells his workers to drop some of the grain that was already harvested for Ruth to glean.
123RUT216nn9lוְ⁠לֹ֥א תִגְעֲרוּ־בָֽ⁠הּ1do not rebuke her**do not cause her shame** or **do not speak harshly to her**
124RUT217h3apוַ⁠תַּחְבֹּט֙1Then she beat outShe separated the edible part of the grain from the hull and stalk, which are thrown away.
125RUT217mq6btranslate-bvolumeכְּ⁠אֵיפָ֥ה שְׂעֹרִֽים1about an ephah of barleyAn **ephah** is a unit of measurement equal to about 22 liters. Alternate translation: “about 22 liters of barley.” Use the normal measurement for grain in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])
126RUT218etn8figs-explicitוַ⁠תִּשָּׂא֙ וַ⁠תָּב֣וֹא הָ⁠עִ֔יר1She lifted it up and went into the cityIt is implied that Ruth carried the grain home. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
127RUT218r6szוַ⁠תֵּ֥רֶא חֲמוֹתָ֖⁠הּ1Then her mother-in-law saw**Then Naomi saw**
128RUT219bg28figs-parallelismאֵיפֹ֨ה לִקַּ֤טְתְּ הַ⁠יּוֹם֙ וְ⁠אָ֣נָה עָשִׂ֔ית1Where did you glean today, and where did you work?Naomi asked the same thing in two different ways to show that she was very interested in knowing what had happened to Ruth that day. Use the way that your language shows excitement and interest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
129RUT219ab07figs-metonymyמַכִּירֵ֖⁠ךְ1the one who noticed youHere **noticed** is a metonymy that stands for not only seeing Ruth, but also doing something for her. Alternate translation: “the one who helped you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
130RUT220p8kmבָּר֥וּךְ הוּא֙ לַ⁠יהוָ֔ה1May he be blessed by YahwehNaomi is asking God to reward Boaz for his kindness to Ruth and herself.
131RUT220ab20figs-doublenegativesאֲשֶׁר֙ לֹא־עָזַ֣ב חַסְדּ֔⁠וֹ1who has not forsaken his loving kindnessThis can be stated positively: **who has continued to be loyal**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
132RUT220ur7zאֲשֶׁר֙ לֹא־עָזַ֣ב1who has not forsakenThe word **who** is most probably referring to Yahweh, who has continued to be faithful to the living and the dead by acting through Boaz. A less likely possibility is that it is referring to Boaz.
133RUT220ljz3figs-nominaladjאֶת־הַ⁠חַיִּ֖ים1to the livingNaomi 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]])
134RUT220wjr4figs-nominaladjוְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠מֵּתִ֑ים1and to the deadNaomis 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]])
135RUT220cyy2figs-parallelismקָר֥וֹב לָ֨⁠נוּ֙ הָ⁠אִ֔ישׁ מִֽ⁠גֹּאֲלֵ֖⁠נוּ הֽוּא1That man is closely related to us. He is 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]])
136RUT220zu5fמִֽ⁠גֹּאֲלֵ֖⁠נוּ1kinsman-redeemersA kinsman-redeemer was a close male relative who had the responsibility to take care of any widows in the family. If one of his brothers died having had no children, he had the responsibility to marry the widow, if she was still of child-bearing age, to raise a child for his brother. He would also reacquire the land his relatives had lost due to poverty and redeem family members who had sold themselves into slavery. See the Introduction for more information.
137RUT221k2lzגַּ֣ם ׀ כִּי־אָמַ֣ר אֵלַ֗⁠י1In addition, he said to me**He even said to me**. This indicates that what follows is beyond what they would have expected a landowner to say to Ruth.
138RUT221g585עִם־הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֤ים אֲשֶׁר־לִ⁠י֙ תִּדְבָּקִ֔י⁠ן1You should keep close by the servants who belong to meBoaz was expressing confidence that his workers would not harm Ruth.
139RUT222f2twתֵֽצְאִי֙ עִם1you go out with**you work with**
140RUT222bcc4וְ⁠לֹ֥א יִפְגְּעוּ־בָ֖⁠ךְ1so that they do not harm youThis could mean: (1) other workers might abuse Ruth or try to rape her or (2) in another field, the owner might interfere or stop her from gleaning while they are harvesting.
141RUT222ab64grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠לֹ֥א יִפְגְּעוּ־בָ֖⁠ךְ1so that they do not harm youThis is the reason why Ruth should continue to work with Boazs servants. If it is more clear in your language to state the reason before the result, you can state this part of the sentence first, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
142RUT223e2vqוַ⁠תִּדְבַּ֞ק1So she stayed close byRuth worked in Boazs fields with his workers during the day, so she would be safe.
143RUT223a7qpוַ⁠תֵּ֖שֶׁב אֶת־חֲמוֹתָֽ⁠הּ1She lived with her mother-in-lawRuth went to Naomis home to sleep at night.
144RUT3introt4y50# Ruth 03 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Boazs integrity<br><br>Boaz showed great integrity in this chapter by not having sexual relations with Ruth until they were married. He was also concerned with preserving Ruths good reputation. Displaying Boazs good character is an important point in this chapter.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### **So that it may be well with you**<br><br>Naomi wanted Ruth to have a secure home with a good husband who would care for her. She could see that Boaz would be the best husband for her. She also thought that Boaz, as a kinsman-redeemer, had an obligation to marry her. This could be true because, even though Ruth was a Gentile by birth, she had become part of Naomis family and part of the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
145RUT31jdr3writing-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]])
146RUT31r7arחֲמוֹתָ֑⁠הּ1her mother-in-lawNaomi is the mother of Ruths dead husband.
147RUT31f1ucבִּתִּ֞⁠י1My daughterRuth became part of Naomis family by marrying her son and became like a daughter to her by her actions in caring for Naomi after returning to Bethlehem.
148RUT31nxr8figs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֧א אֲבַקֶּשׁ־לָ֛⁠ךְ מָנ֖וֹחַ אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִֽיטַב־לָֽ⁠ךְ1should I not seek a resting place for you, that will be good for 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]])
149RUT31uw2pfigs-metaphorלָ֛⁠ךְ מָנ֖וֹחַ1a resting place for youThis does not mean a place to rest temporarily from being tired. It means a place of permanent comfort and security, in a good home with a husband. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
150RUT32jdr4grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה1Connecting Statement:Naomis rhetorical question in verse 1 gave the reason for the advice that she is about to give to Ruth in verses 2-4. This word marks what follows as the result of verse 1. In other words, Naomi advises Ruth what to do (3:2-4) because she desires to find a good, secure home for Ruth (3:1) If it is more clear in your language to state the reason after the result, you may want to put verse 1 after verses 2-4, marked as verses 1-4 together. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
151RUT32b4h8figs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֥א בֹ֨עַז֙ מֹֽדַעְתָּ֔⁠נוּ1is not Boaz our relativeNaomi used this question to remind Ruth of something she had already told her (See 2:20), to introduce the reason for what she is about to say. Alternate translation: “As you know, Boaz is our relative.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
152RUT32j31tfigs-explicitהָיִ֖ית אֶת־נַעֲרוֹתָ֑י⁠ו1whose young female workers you have been workingIf it helps for understanding, 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]])
153RUT32nd8vfigs-distinguishהִנֵּה1LookThe word **Look** indicates that the following statement is very important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
154RUT32ms25זֹרֶ֛ה1will be winnowing**he will be 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.
155RUT33ru6zוָ⁠סַ֗כְתְּ1and anoint yourselfThis is probably a reference to rubbing sweet-smelling oil on oneself, as a kind of perfume.
156RUT33e92hוְיָרַ֣דְתְּ הַ⁠גֹּ֑רֶן1and go down to the threshing floorThis refers to leaving the city and going to the open, flat area where workers could thresh and winnow grain.
157RUT34jdr5figs-imperativeוִ⁠יהִ֣י1And let it be that**Then do like this:** This is a general instruction that introduces the next series of specific instructions that Naomi is about to give to Ruth. Translate this in the way that people would say this in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
158RUT34ab21grammar-connect-time-backgroundבְ⁠שָׁכְב֗⁠וֹ1when 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]])
159RUT34ln1mtranslate-symactionוְ⁠גִלִּ֥ית מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י⁠ו1and uncover his feetThis means to remove the cloak or blanket covering his feet (or legs). Perhaps this action by a woman could be interpreted as a proposal of marriage. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
160RUT34zi01מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י⁠ו1his feetThe word used here could refer to his feet or his legs.
161RUT34l4weוְשָׁכָ֑בְתְּ1and lie down**and lie down there**
162RUT34w1u5וְ⁠הוּא֙ יַגִּ֣יד לָ֔⁠ךְ אֵ֖ת אֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּעַשִֽׂי⁠ן1Then he, himself, will tell you what you should doThe specific custom of that time is unclear, but Naomi appears to believe that Boaz will understand Ruths action as a proposal of marriage. Boaz will then either accept or reject her offer.
163RUT34nn4gוְ⁠הוּא֙ יַגִּ֣יד1Then he, himself, will tell**When he wakes up, he will tell**
164RUT36ab22figs-eventsוַ⁠תַּ֕עַשׂ כְּ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־צִוַּ֖תָּ⁠ה חֲמוֹתָֽ⁠הּ׃1and did according to everything that her mother-in-law had instructed her.This statement summarizes the actions that Ruth will do in verse 7. If people understand from this that Ruth did these actions in verse 6 and then did them again in verse 7, then you could translate this sentence as **and she obeyed her mother-in-law**. Or if it would make the order of events more clear, you could move this sentence to the end of verse 7, then combine the verse numbers as a verse bridge (6-7). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]])
165RUT37fz7efigs-metonymyוַ⁠יִּיטַ֣ב לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1and his heart was goodHere **heart** stands for “emotions” or “disposition.” Boazs emotions or feelings were good. This does not imply that Boaz was drunk. Alternate translation: “and he felt good” or “and he was in a good mood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
166RUT37y6gkוַ⁠תָּבֹ֣א בַ⁠לָּ֔ט1Then she came quietly**Then she sneaked in** or **Then she came in quietly so that no one would hear her**
167RUT37eq2uוַ⁠תְּגַ֥ל מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י⁠ו1and uncovered his feet**and removed the covering from his legs**
168RUT37pb6lוַ⁠תִּשְׁכָּֽב1and lay down**and lay down there**
169RUT38pz92writing-neweventוַ⁠יְהִי֙ בַּ⁠חֲצִ֣י הַ⁠לַּ֔יְלָה1Then it happened in the middle of the nightThis clause introduces a new event in the story, explaining when Boaz woke up. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
170RUT38xun6וַ⁠יֶּחֱרַ֥ד1that … was startledIt is not clear what startled Boaz. Perhaps he suddenly felt the cold air on his feet or legs.
171RUT38ab23figs-exclamationsוְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה1And beholdThis word shows that what follows was very surprising to Boaz. Use your languages way of expressing surprise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
172RUT38e7uiאִשָּׁ֔ה שֹׁכֶ֖בֶת מַרְגְּלֹתָֽי⁠ו1a woman was lying at his feetThe woman was Ruth, but Boaz could not recognize her in the darkness.
173RUT39wj9eאֲמָתֶ֔⁠ךָ-1your female servantRuth was not one of Boazs servants, but she referred to herself as Boazs servant as a polite way to express respect to Boaz. Use your languages way of expressing humility and respect.
174RUT39xp1bfigs-idiomוּ⁠פָרַשְׂתָּ֤ כְנָפֶ֨⁠ךָ֙ עַל־אֲמָ֣תְ⁠ךָ֔1And you can spread the edge of your cloak over your female servantThis was a cultural idiom for marriage. Alternate translation: “Please marry me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
175RUT39l5g4גֹאֵ֖ל1a kinsman-redeemerSee how you translated this term in [2:20](../02/20/zu5f).
176RUT310bjw9הֵיטַ֛בְתְּ חַסְדֵּ֥⁠ךְ הָ⁠אַחֲר֖וֹן מִן־הָ⁠רִאשׁ֑וֹן1You have made your covenant faithfulness better at the end than at the beginning**You are demonstrating even more loving kindness now than before**
177RUT310e7kaהֵיטַ֛בְתְּ חַסְדֵּ֥⁠ךְ הָ⁠אַחֲר֖וֹן1You have made your covenant faithfulness better at the endThis refers to Ruth asking Boaz to marry her. Boaz sees this as Ruth showing unselfish kindness and family loyalty to Naomi. By marrying Naomis relative, Ruth would also provide for Naomi, honor Naomis son, and continue Naomis family line.
178RUT310cbd3הָ⁠רִאשׁ֑וֹן1at the beginningThis refers to the way that Ruth had earlier provided for her mother-in-law by staying with her and gleaning grain for food for them.
179RUT310n84dfigs-idiomלְ⁠בִלְתִּי־לֶ֗כֶת אַחֲרֵי֙1by not going after**because you have not looked for marriage among**. Ruth could have ignored Naomis need and looked for a young and handsome husband for herself outside of Naomis relatives, but she did not. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
180RUT311jdr6grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה1Connecting Statement:This phrase indicates that what came before in verse 10 is the reason for what follows in verse 11. This can be indicated with a word like **Therefore**. If it is clearer in your language to put the reason after the result, the order would be: Boaz is motivated to perform the role of kinsman-redeemer (verse 11) **because** he has seen how much kindness Ruth has shown to Naomi (verse 10). If you choose this order, you will need to combine the verses and the verse numbers (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]).
181RUT311ei93בִּתִּ⁠י֙1my daughterBoaz used this expression as a sign of respect toward Ruth as a younger woman. Use the form of address that would be appropriate in your language.
182RUT311ab08figs-idiomכָּל־שַׁ֣עַר עַמִּ֔⁠י1the whole gate of my peopleThe gate was an area of the city where people gathered to do business, and the leaders met there to make decisions. So this was an idiom meaning “all of the important people in my city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]).
183RUT311ab31אֵ֥שֶׁת חַ֖יִל1a woman of worth**a woman of good character**, **a good woman**
184RUT312jdr7וְ⁠עַתָּה֙1Connecting Statement:This phrase indicates that what follows is something else important that Ruth should pay attention to. Alternate translation: “You also need to know that” 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]])
185RUT312ab30grammar-connect-logic-contrastוְ⁠גַ֛ם יֵ֥שׁ1but there isThis phrase indicates a contrast between Boazs willingness to marry Ruth (verse 11) and the possibility of another man marrying her instead (verse 12). Alternate translation: “Even so, there is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]]).
186RUT312fvq5גֹּאֵ֖ל קָר֥וֹב מִמֶּֽ⁠נִּי1a kinsman-redeemer … nearer than IIt was the duty of the male relative who was closest in family relationship to the man who died to help his widow. See how you translated **kinsman-redeemer** in [2:20](../02/20/zu5f) and make sure that it also makes sense here.
187RUT313gcl8figs-explicitאִם־יִגְאָלֵ֥⁠ךְ1if he will redeem you**redeem** here means “marry according to our custom concerning widows.” Boaz is referring to the expectation that the closest male relative of Ruths dead husband would marry her and raise a son to carry on the dead mans family name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
188RUT313tkz9חַי־יְהוָ֑ה1as Yahweh lives**as surely as Yahweh lives** or **by the life of Yahweh**. This was a common Hebrew vow that obligated the speaker to perform what he said. Use the normal phrasing for a vow in your language.
189RUT314vn8pוַ⁠תִּשְׁכַּ֤ב מַרְגְּלוֹתָיו֙1So she lay at his feetRuth slept at Boazs feet. They did not have sex.
190RUT314dwx1figs-idiomבְּטֶ֛רֶם יַכִּ֥יר אִ֖ישׁ אֶת־רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ1before a man could recognize his friendThis is an idiom that referred to a condition of darkness. Alternate translation: “while it was still dark” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]).
191RUT315hj1eהַ⁠מִּטְפַּ֧חַת1the cloaka thick piece of cloth worn over the shoulders for warmth
192RUT315f5zgשֵׁשׁ־שְׂעֹרִים֙1six measures of barleyThe actual amount is not stated. It was enough to be considered generous, yet small enough for Ruth to carry alone. Most scholars think it was around 25 to 30 kilograms.
193RUT315gdn8וַ⁠יָּ֣שֶׁת עָלֶ֔י⁠הָ1put it on herThe amount of grain was heavy, so Boaz put it on Ruths back so she could carry it.
194RUT315aj7uוַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א הָ⁠עִֽיר1Then he went into the cityMost ancient copies have **he went**, referring to Boaz, but some have **she went**, referring to Ruth. Some English versions have “he” and some have “she” here. Most scholars believe that **he went** is the original meaning.
195RUT316s7drfigs-idiomמִי־אַ֣תְּ בִּתִּ֑⁠י1Who are you, my daughter?This appears to be an idiom that probably means **What is your status, my daughter?** In other words, Naomi is probably asking if Ruth is now a married woman. Alternatively, the question could mean simply **Is that you, my daughter?** (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
196RUT316ab34בִּתִּ֑⁠י1my daughterRuth is actually Naomis daughter-in-law, but Naomi calls her **my daughter** as an endearment. Keep this translation if it is acceptable in your culture. Otherwise, use “daughter-in law.”
197RUT316w9p9אֵ֛ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָֽשָׂה־לָ֖⁠הּ הָ⁠אִֽישׁ1all that the man had done for her**all that Boaz had done for her**
198RUT317abcaשֵׁשׁ־הַ⁠שְּׂעֹרִ֥ים1six measures of barleySee how you translated this in [3:15](../03/15/f5zg).
199RUT317e9xxfigs-idiomאַל־תָּב֥וֹאִי רֵיקָ֖ם1You must not go emptyTo **go empty-handed** is an idiom that means to go to someone with nothing to offer that person. Alternate translation: **Do not go empty-handed** or **Do not go with nothing** or **You must take something** (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]).
200RUT318ab36figs-idiomשְׁבִ֣י בִתִּ֔⁠י1sit, my daughter**Sit** is an idiom that means that Ruth should calmly wait. Alternate translation: “Wait here” or “Be patient” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
201RUT318ab35בִתִּ֔⁠י1my daughterSee how you translated this in 1:11-13; 2:2, 8, 22; 3:1, 10, 11, 16.
202RUT318ab37figs-idiomאֵ֖יךְ יִפֹּ֣ל דָּבָ֑ר1how the matter fallsThis is an idiom that means “how the situation will turn out” or “what will happen.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
203RUT318zi02figs-doublenegativesלֹ֤א יִשְׁקֹט֙ הָ⁠אִ֔ישׁ כִּֽי־אִם־כִּלָּ֥ה הַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר1the man will not rest unless he has finished this matterThis can be stated positively: **the man will certainly settle this matter** or **the man will surely resolve this issue**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
204RUT318u5rnאִם־כִּלָּ֥ה הַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר1he has finished this matter**This matter** refers to the decision about who will buy Naomis property and marry Ruth.
205RUT4intropz6m0# Ruth 04 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### King David<br><br>Despite being a Moabitess, Ruth became an ancestress of David. David was Israels greatest king. It may be surprising that a Gentile would become a part of such an important lineage, but it reminds us that God loves all people. Ruth had great faith in Yahweh. This shows us that God welcomes all who trust in him.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### **You must also acquire Ruth the Moabite woman**<br><br>With the privilege of using the familys land came the responsibility to take care of the widows of the family. Therefore, the relative who wanted to use Naomis land had to also help Ruth to have a son who would carry on the family name and inheritance and provide for her.<br><br>### **This was the custom in former times**<br><br>This is a comment made by the writer of the text. This indicates that there was a considerable period of time between the events that occurred and the time when they were written down.
206RUT41jdr8writing-neweventוּ⁠בֹ֨עַז עָלָ֣ה הַ⁠שַּׁעַר֮1Now Boaz had gone up to the gateThis clause introduces the next part of the story, in which Boaz takes the leading role as kinsman-redeemer and marries Ruth. Use your languages way of introducing a new part of a story (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
207RUT41m4byהַ⁠שַּׁעַר֮1to 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. Inside the gate was an open area that was used as a meeting place to discuss community matters.
208RUT41jdr9figs-distinguishוְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה1And behold,The word **behold** alerts us to the important event of Boaz seeing the exact person whom 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-distinguish]])
209RUT41kz1gהַ⁠גֹּאֵ֤ל1the kinsman-redeemerThis was the closest living male relative to Elimelek. See how you translated **kinsman-redeemer** in [2:20](../02/20/zu5f).
210RUT41ab38figs-idiomפְּלֹנִ֣י אַלְמֹנִ֑י1a certain someoneBoaz did not actually say these words; instead, he called the kinsman-redeemer by his name. This is an idiom that means that this is a specific person but the name is not given. The narrator has substituted this general term for the persons name either because the specific name is not important for the story or the mans name had been forgotten. If your language has an idiom to refer to a specific person without using his name, use that here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]).
211RUT41ab39figs-quotationsפְּלֹנִ֣י אַלְמֹנִ֑י1a certain someoneIn many languages, this is an awkward and unnatural way for someone to address another person. A way to make this more natural could be to turn this into an indirect quotation as in the UST. A combination of indirect and direct quotation is also possible: “Boaz called him by name, and said, Turn aside and sit down here.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]).
212RUT42ab40וַ⁠יִּקַּ֞ח עֲשָׂרָ֧ה אֲנָשִׁ֛ים1Then he took ten men**Then he chose ten men**
213RUT42bf74מִ⁠זִּקְנֵ֥י הָ⁠עִ֖יר1from the elders of the city**from the leaders of the city**
214RUT43es9gחֶלְקַת֙ הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֔ה…מָכְרָ֣ה נָעֳמִ֔י1Naomi … is selling the portion of the fieldIt was the responsibility of the nearest kinsman to Elimelek to buy back the land that had belonged to Elimelek and to care for Elimeleks family.
215RUT44ab41figs-idiomאֶגְלֶ֧ה אָזְנְ⁠ךָ֣1I should uncover your earThis is an idiom that means “I should tell you” or “I should let you know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]).
216RUT44c6xiנֶ֥גֶד1in the presence of**in the presence of**. Having these men as witnesses would make the transaction legal and binding.
217RUT44lgq1גְּאָ֔ל1redeem it**redeem** means to buy the land to keep it within the family.
218RUT44ab42grammar-connect-exceptionsאֵ֤ין זוּלָֽתְ⁠ךָ֙ לִ⁠גְא֔וֹל וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י אַחֲרֶ֑י⁠ךָ1there is no one to redeem it besides you, and I am after youIn some languages, it may be confusing to say these things together: (1) there is no one to redeem the land, (2) only you can redeem the land, (3) then I can redeem the land. If that is so in your language, see the UST for a way that is more clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
219RUT44u548וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י אַחֲרֶ֑י⁠ךָ1and I am after youBoaz was the next nearest kinsman to Elimelek, and so had the second right to redeem the land.
220RUT45ut23בְּ⁠יוֹם־קְנוֹתְ⁠ךָ֥…וּ֠⁠מֵ⁠אֵת…קָנִ֔יתָה1On the day that you buy … you also acquireBoaz uses this expression to inform his relative of the additional responsibility he will have if he buys the land. Alternate translation: “When you buy the land, you also get”
221RUT45ymn8figs-synecdocheמִ⁠יַּ֣ד נָעֳמִ֑י1from the hand of NaomiHere the word **hand** represents Naomi, who owns the field. Alternate translation: “from Naomi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
222RUT45dya3figs-idiomוּ֠⁠מֵ⁠אֵת ר֣וּת…קָנִ֔יתָה1you also acquire Ruth**you must also marry Ruth** (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
223RUT45b3psאֵֽשֶׁת־הַ⁠מֵּת֙1the wife of the dead man**the widow of Elimeleks son who died**
224RUT45b3syלְ⁠הָקִ֥ים שֵׁם־הַ⁠מֵּ֖ת עַל־נַחֲלָתֽ⁠וֹ׃1In order to raise up the name of the dead over his inheritance**that she may have a son to inherit the property and carry on her dead husbands family name**
225RUT45ab43figs-nominaladjהַ⁠מֵּ֖ת1the deadRuths husband was **the dead**. This can be stated differently to avoid the nominal adjective **the dead**. Alternate translation: “the man who died” or “her husband who died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
226RUT46sx9kאַשְׁחִ֖ית אֶת־נַחֲלָתִ֑⁠י1damaging my own inheritanceThe man would need to give some of his wealth in exchange for the property. Then if he were to marry Ruth, that property would belong to her son, not to his own children. In that way, he would be taking away from the wealth that his own children would inherit from him and giving it instead to the children that Ruth might bear. Alternate translation: “taking away from my own childrens inheritance.”
227RUT46sa7hגְּאַל־לְ⁠ךָ֤ אַתָּה֙ אֶת־גְּאֻלָּתִ֔⁠י1You redeem for yourself my right of redemption**You yourself redeem it instead of me**
228RUT47wga9writing-backgroundוְ⁠זֹאת֩1Now … this is how**Now this was the custom**. The writer of the book stops telling the story in order to give some background information that explains the custom of exchange during the time of Ruth. Use your languages way of giving background information in a story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
229RUT47lgf5writing-backgroundלְ⁠פָנִ֨ים1in earlier times**in earlier times** or **long ago**. This implies that this custom was no longer practiced when the book of Ruth was written. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
230RUT47d46wלְ⁠רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ1to his friend**to the other person**. This refers to the person with whom he was making the agreement. In this situation the near kinsman gave Boaz his sandal. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]).
231RUT48ab44וַ⁠יֹּ֧אמֶר הַ⁠גֹּאֵ֛ל1So the kinsman-redeemer saidThe events of the story start again here after the background information of verse 7. Use your languages way of starting to tell the events of the story again.
232RUT49zz42figs-hyperboleלַ⁠זְּקֵנִ֜ים וְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֗ם1to the elders and to all the peopleThis 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]])
233RUT49lwx9figs-synecdocheמִ⁠יַּ֖ד נָעֳמִֽי1from the hand of NaomiThe hand of Naomi represents Naomi. Since her husband and sons had died, the right to the property belonged to her. Alternate translation: “from Naomi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
234RUT49img5כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֣ר לֶֽ⁠אֱלִימֶ֔לֶךְ וְ⁠אֵ֛ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר לְ⁠כִלְי֖וֹן וּ⁠מַחְל֑וֹן1everything that belonged to Elimelek and everything that belonged to Kilion and MahlonThis refers to all the land and possessions of Naomis dead husband and sons.
235RUT410jdr0grammar-connect-words-phrasesוְ⁠גַ֣ם1Connecting Statement:This connecting phrase indicates that the people sitting at the gate are witnesses to the fact that Boaz is buying back Elimeleks family land for Naomi (4:9) and also to the fact that Boaz is claiming Ruth to be his wife (4:10). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
236RUT410nm32לְ⁠הָקִ֤ים שֵׁם־הַ⁠מֵּת֙ עַל־נַ֣חֲלָת֔⁠וֹ1to raise up the name of the dead man over his inheritanceSee how you translated this phrase in 4:5. Alternate translation: “so that I might give her a son who will inherit the dead mans property”
237RUT410gg1mfigs-metaphorוְ⁠לֹא־יִכָּרֵ֧ת שֵׁם־הַ⁠מֵּ֛ת מֵ⁠עִ֥ם אֶחָ֖י⁠ו1so that the name of the dead man will not be cut off from among his brothers and from the gate of his placeBeing 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 by the people of this town” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
238RUT410ab61figs-doublenegativesוְ⁠לֹא־יִכָּרֵ֧ת שֵׁם־הַ⁠מֵּ֛ת1so that the name of the dead man will not be cut offThis can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “so that his name will be preserved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
239RUT410xpu5figs-metonymyוּ⁠מִ⁠שַּׁ֣עַר מְקוֹמ֑⁠וֹ1and from the gate of his placeThe gate of the town is where the leaders gathered and made important legal decisions, such as decisions about who owns a piece of land. Alternate translation: “and among the important people of his town” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
240RUT410ab45עֵדִ֥ים אַתֶּ֖ם הַ⁠יּֽוֹם1Today you are witnesses!**You have seen and heard these things today, and can speak of them tomorrow**
241RUT411ua2aהָ⁠עָ֧ם אֲשֶׁר־בַּ⁠שַּׁ֛עַר1the people who were in the gate**the people who were meeting together near the gate**
242RUT411hg6qfigs-metonymyהַ⁠בָּאָ֣ה אֶל־בֵּיתֶ֗⁠ךָ1who is coming into your houseThis has both a literal and a figurative meaning. As Ruth marries Boaz, she will move into his house. “House” can be a metonym the represents “family,” so this also refers to becoming part of Boazs family by being his wife. Alternate translation: “who is becoming part of your family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
243RUT411q47mכְּ⁠רָחֵ֤ל ׀ וּ⁠כְ⁠לֵאָה֙1like Rachel and LeahThese were the two wives of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel.
244RUT411cz4tבָּנ֤וּ…אֶת־בֵּ֣ית יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1built up the house of Israel**bore many children who became the nation of Israel**
245RUT411abcbfigs-parallelismוַ⁠עֲשֵׂה־חַ֣יִל בְּ⁠אֶפְרָ֔תָה וּ⁠קְרָא־שֵׁ֖ם בְּ⁠בֵ֥ית לָֽחֶם1Achieve honor in Ephrathah, and be renowned in Bethlehem!These two phrases are similar in meaning. The second phrase repeats somewhat and adds to the meaning of the first. This is a Hebrew style of emphasis. Alternate translation: “May you do good things in Bethlehem and become well-known for them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]).
246RUT411ab65figs-imperativeוַ⁠עֲשֵׂה־חַ֣יִל בְּ⁠אֶפְרָ֔תָה וּ⁠קְרָא־שֵׁ֖ם בְּ⁠בֵ֥ית לָֽחֶם1Achieve honor in Ephrathah, and be renowned in Bethlehem!These phrases are a form of blessing. Use the style of blessing that is appropriate in your language. Alternate translation: “May you do good things in Bethlehem and may you become well-known for them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]]).
247RUT411uk9qוַ⁠עֲשֵׂה־חַ֣יִל בְּ⁠אֶפְרָ֔תָה1Achieve honor in EphrathahThe area around the town of Bethlehem was known as Ephrathah, and that became another name for the town. Presumably this name came from the Israelite clan that settled in and around the city of Bethlehem.
248RUT412fn52figs-metonymyוִ⁠יהִ֤י בֵֽיתְ⁠ךָ֙ כְּ⁠בֵ֣ית פֶּ֔רֶץ אֲשֶׁר־יָלְדָ֥ה תָמָ֖ר לִֽ⁠יהוּדָ֑ה1May your house be like the house of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah**house** stands for “family” or “clan.” Perez had many descendants who became large clans in Israel, including the clan of Ephrathah. Also, many of his descendents became important people. The people were asking God to bless Boaz in a similar way through Ruths children. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
249RUT412a433יָלְדָ֥ה תָמָ֖ר לִֽ⁠יהוּדָ֑ה1Tamar bore to JudahTamar, like Ruth, was also a widow. Judah fathered a son with Tamar, who continued the family name of her dead husband.
250RUT412xym8מִן־הַ⁠זֶּ֗רַע אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִתֵּ֤ן יְהוָה֙ לְ⁠ךָ֔1from the offspring that Yahweh gives youThe people are asking for a blessing from Yahweh, that he would give Boaz many children through Ruth who would do good things, just as he did for Perez. Use the form of blessing that is appropriate in your language.
251RUT413abccfigs-parallelismוַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח בֹּ֤עַז אֶת־רוּת֙ וַ⁠תְּהִי־ל֣⁠וֹ לְ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה1So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wifeThese two phrases mean very much the same thing, as the second phrase repeats and expands the first. This is a Hebrew poetic style. The two phrases can be combined as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
252RUT413u21ggrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח בֹּ֤עַז אֶת־רוּת֙1So Boaz took RuthThis phrase indicates that Boaz did what he said he would do in verse 10. It does not imply any form of violence. Along with the following phrase, it simply means, **So Boaz married Ruth** or **So Boaz took Ruth as a wife**. Use a connecting word (like “so”) that indicates that this action by Boaz is a result of the agreement in verse 10. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
253RUT413gw77figs-euphemismוַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א אֵלֶ֑י⁠הָ1he went in to herThis 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]])
254RUT414ab46figs-explicitהַ⁠נָּשִׁים֙1the womenThese are the women of the town as mentioned in 1:19. This can be made clear if necessary. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
255RUT414ab47בָּר֣וּךְ יְהוָ֔ה1Blessed be YahwehThe women are praising God for what he has done for Naomi and Ruth. If it does not make sense in your language to “bless” God, use a word like “praise” or “we give thanks.” See the UST.
256RUT414qj8vfigs-doublenegativesלֹ֣א הִשְׁבִּ֥ית לָ֛⁠ךְ גֹּאֵ֖ל הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם1who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemerThis 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]])
257RUT414p8p3וְ⁠יִקָּרֵ֥א שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ1May his name be renownedThis is a blessing, stating that the women desire that Naomis grandson will have a good reputation and character. Use the form of blessing that is appropriate in your language.
258RUT415hz3eלְ⁠מֵשִׁ֣יב נֶ֔פֶשׁ1a restorer of lifeThis phrase refers to how Naomi will again experience joy and hope in her life as a result of having this grandson. Alternate translation: “one who brings joy to you again” or “one who will make you feel young/strong again”
259RUT415z5lwוּ⁠לְ⁠כַלְכֵּ֖ל אֶת־שֵׂיבָתֵ֑⁠ךְ1and a nourisher of your old age**and he will take care of you when you become old**
260RUT415ab48grammar-connect-logic-resultכִּ֣י1For**We know this because** Use a connecting word or phrase that indicates that what follows (the fact that Ruth has borne him) is the reason for the womens confident prediction of his character. If it makes more sense to put the reason first, then follow the order in the UST.
261RUT415rpc3figs-idiomט֣וֹבָה לָ֔⁠ךְ מִ⁠שִּׁבְעָ֖ה בָּנִֽים1better to you than seven sons**seven** represented the idea of completeness or perfection. This is a way to praise Ruth for how she has provided for Naomi by bearing a grandson for her by Boaz, when Naomis sons could not provide for her because they had died. Alternate translation: “better to you than any son” or “worth more to you than many sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
262RUT416k1w4וַ⁠תִּקַּ֨ח נָעֳמִ֤י אֶת־הַ⁠יֶּ֨לֶד֙1Naomi took the child**Naomi picked up the child** This refers to Naomi holding the child. Make sure it does not sound like she took him away from Ruth in any hostile way.
263RUT416ab49וַ⁠תְּהִי־ל֖⁠וֹ לְ⁠אֹמֶֽנֶת׃1and became his nurse**and took care of him**
264RUT417ab50וַ⁠תִּקְרֶאנָה֩ ל֨⁠וֹ הַ⁠שְּׁכֵנ֥וֹת שֵׁם֙…וַ⁠תִּקְרֶ֤אנָֽה שְׁמ⁠וֹ֙ עוֹבֵ֔ד1So the neighbor women called out a name for him … And they called his name Obed.The first phrase introduces the naming event, and the second repeats it in order to report the event. If this is confusing, the two phrases can be combined. **So the neighbor women gave him the name Obed** or **The women of the neighborhood said … and they named him Obed**
265RUT417fkf2יֻלַּד־בֵּ֖ן לְ⁠נָעֳמִ֑י1A son has been born to Naomi**It is as though Naomi has a son again**. It was understood that the child was Naomis grandson, not her physical son, but he would carry on the family line of both Naomi and Ruth.
266RUT417ab51ה֥וּא אֲבִי־יִשַׁ֖י1He was the father of Jesse**Later, he became the father of Jesse** It may be necessary to make it clear that much time passed between the births of Obed, Jesse, and David.
267RUT417f9hafigs-explicitאֲבִ֥י דָוִֽד1the father of David**father of King David**. Though **King** is not stated, it was clear to the original audience that this David was King David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
268RUT418mzm1תּוֹלְד֣וֹת פָּ֔רֶץ1the generations of Perez**the successive descendants of our clan, starting with Perez**. Because it was mentioned earlier that Perez was the son of Judah, the writer continues listing the family line that came from Perez. Verse 17 was the end of the story about Naomi and Ruth, and verse 18 begins a final section that lists the family line of the clan of Ephrathah, showing how important Obed was as the grandfather of King David. Use a connecting word that signals that this is a new section. You may also need to make it clear that this verse refers to a much earlier time than the time period of the story.
269RUT419rl3ktranslate-namesוְ⁠חֶצְרוֹן֙…עַמִּֽינָדָֽב׃1Hezron … AmminadabUse forms of these names that are natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
270RUT422abcdfigs-explicitדָּוִֽד1David**King David**. See the note about **David** on [4:17](../04/17/f9ha). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])