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. 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.<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***. 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.<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. They were also responsible to practice ***levirate marriage***. In the Book of Ruth, Boaz is one such kinsman-redeemer.<br><br>### What was **gleaning** in the Book of Ruth?<br><br>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.<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 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.<br><br>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]])<br><br>### What function did city gates have in the ancient Near East?<br><br>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.<br><br>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.<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.<br>
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]])<br>
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 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 of Bethlehem of JudahThey 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 MoabNaomis 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 yearsAbout 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 husbandNaomi was widowed and both her sons died.
15RUT16u9q2וְ⁠כַלֹּתֶ֔י⁠הָ1her daughters-in-lawthe 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]])
17RUT16ser2יְהוָה֙1YahwehThis 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 peopleGod 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 youNaomi 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 husbandThis 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 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]])
30RUT110mag8figs-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]])
31RUT110bq4jfigs-youאִתָּ֥⁠ךְ1with youHere **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 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]])
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 meBitterness 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 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]])
40RUT114n47vfigs-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]])
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 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.
45RUT116z5ugוּ⁠בַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֤ר תָּלִ֨ינִי֙1where you stay***where you live***
46RUT116b518figs-explicitעַמֵּ֣⁠ךְ עַמִּ֔⁠י1your people will be 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]])
47RUT117lql7figs-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]])
48RUT117sje3figs-idiomיַעֲשֶׂ֨ה יְהוָ֥ה לִ⁠י֙ וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יֹסִ֔יף כִּ֣י1May Yahweh do to me, and even more, ifThis 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 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]])
53RUT119y3usfigs-metonymyכָּל־הָ⁠עִיר֙1the entire townThe **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 townHere **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 NaomiThe name ***Naomi*** means ***my delight***. Since Naomi lost her husband and sons, she no longer feels her life matches her name.
57RUT120swe9translate-namesמָרָ֔א1BitterThis 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 emptyWhen 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 RuthThis 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 שְׂעֹרִֽים1They 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<br><br>## Other 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 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]])<br>
65RUT21t2snwriting-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]])
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 womanHere the story resumes. You need to see how your language restarts a story after a break.
68RUT22c7rkהַ⁠מּוֹאֲבִיָּ֜ה1the Moabite womanThis 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 eyesThe **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 favorThe 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 daughterRuth 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 comeRuth 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 BethlehemThe 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 daughterThis 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 fieldThe 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 youPossible 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 drawnTo 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 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]])
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 favorThe 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 eyesThe **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]])
91RUT210x6f8נָכְרִיָּֽה1foreignerRuth 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 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]])
93RUT211abc9figs-idiomהֻגֵּ֨ד הֻגַּ֜ד1It has surely been reportedHere 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 peopleBoaz 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 deedThis 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 YahwehThis 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 refugeBoaz 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 favorHere **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 eyesHere **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 masterBoaz 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 servantsPossible 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 mealThis refers to the noontime meal.
104RUT214p256וְ⁠טָבַ֥לְתְּ פִּתֵּ֖⁠ךְ בַּ⁠חֹ֑מֶץ1dip your piece of bread in the wine 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 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 vinegarThe **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 menIn 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***
108RUT215a5z9גַּ֣ם בֵּ֧ין הָֽ⁠עֳמָרִ֛ים1even among the bundlesHere **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 outShe separated the edible part of the grain from the hull and stalk, which are thrown away.
112RUT217mq6btranslate-bvolumeכְּ⁠אֵיפָ֥ה שְׂעֹרִֽים1about an ephah of barleyAn **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 cityIt 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 YahwehNaomi 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 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]])
119RUT220wjr4figs-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]])
120RUT220cyy2figs-parallelismקָר֥וֹב לָ֨⁠נוּ֙ הָ⁠אִ֔ישׁ מִֽ⁠גֹּאֲלֵ֖⁠נוּ הֽוּא1That man is our relative, one of our kinsman-redeemersThe second phrase repeats and expands the first. This is a Hebrew style of emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
121RUT220zu5fמִֽ⁠גֹּאֲלֵ֖⁠נוּ1kinsman-redeemersA 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 mineBoaz 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 youPossible 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 closeRuth worked in Boazs fields with his workers during the day, so she would be safe.
127RUT223a7qpוַ⁠תֵּ֖שֶׁב אֶת־חֲמוֹתָֽ⁠הּ1She lived with her mother-in-lawRuth went to Naomis home to sleep at night.
128RUT3introt4y50# 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. He was also concerned with how people would see Ruth if they caught her in this position. Boazs character is important for this story.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### **So that it may be well with you**<br><br>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]])<br>
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-lawNaomi is the mother of Ruths dead husband.
131RUT31f1ucבִּתִּ֞⁠י1My daughterRuth 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 youPossible 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 withThe 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-informremindהִנֵּה1LookThe word **Look** indicates that the following statement is very important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-informremind]])
138RUT32ms25זֹרֶ֛ה1is winnowingTo 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 yourselfThis is probably a reference to rubbing sweet-smelling oil on oneself, much as women put on perfume today.
140RUT33e92hfigs-idiomוְיָרַ֣דְתְּ הַ⁠גֹּ֑רֶן1and go down to the threshing floorThis 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 feetThis 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]])
143RUT34l4weבְ⁠שָׁכְב֗⁠וֹ1and lie down***and lie down at his feet***
144RUT34w1u5וְ⁠הוּא֙ יַגִּ֣יד לָ֔⁠ךְ אֵ֖ת אֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּעַשִֽׂי⁠ן1Then he will tell you what you should doThe 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 merryHere 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-simultaneousוַ⁠יְהִי֙ בַּ⁠חֲצִ֣י הַ⁠לַּ֔יְלָה1It came about 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/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
151RUT38xun6וַ⁠יֶּחֱרַ֥ד1that was startledIt is not clear what startled Boaz. Perhaps he suddenly felt the cold air on his feet.
152RUT38c23jfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּלָּפֵ֑ת1He turned overHe looked to see what startled him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
153RUT38e7uiאִשָּׁ֔ה שֹׁכֶ֖בֶת מַרְגְּלֹתָֽי⁠ו1a woman was lying at his feetThe woman was Ruth, but Boaz could not recognize her in the darkness.
154RUT39wj9eאֲמָתֶ֔⁠ךָ-1your female servantRuth spoke with humility to Boaz.
155RUT39xp1bfigs-idiomוּ⁠פָרַשְׂתָּ֤ כְנָפֶ֨⁠ךָ֙ עַל־אֲמָ֣תְ⁠ךָ֔1Spread your cloak over your female servantThis was a cultural idiom for marriage. Alternate translation: “Marry me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
156RUT39l5g4גֹאֵ֖ל1a kinsman-redeemerSee how you translated this term in [2:20](../02/20/zu5f).
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 endThis 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 beginningThis 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 daughterBoaz 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 IIt was the duty of the closest male relative to help the widow. See how you translated **kinsman-redeemer** in [2:20](../02/20/zu5f).
165RUT313gcl8figs-explicitאִם־יִגְאָלֵ֥⁠ךְ1if he will redeem youBoaz 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 feetRuth slept at Boaz feet. They did not have sex.
168RUT314dwx1בְּטֶ֛רֶם יַכִּ֥יר אִ֖ישׁ אֶת־רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ1before anyone could recognize another personThis time of day can be spoken of in terms of darkness. Alternate translation: “while it was still dark”
169RUT315hj1eהַ⁠מִּטְפַּ֧חַת1the shawla piece of cloth worn over the shoulders for warmth
170RUT315f5zgשֵׁשׁ־שְׂעֹרִים֙1six ephahs of barleyThe 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 herThe amount of grain was so great that Ruth needed help picking it up to carry it.
172RUT315aj7uוַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א הָ⁠עִֽיר1Then he went into the cityMost 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 barleySee how you translated this in [3:15](../03/15/f5zg).
177RUT318u5rnאִם־כִּלָּ֥ה הַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר1he has finished this thingThis refers to the decision about who will buy Naomis property and marry Ruth.
178RUT4intropz6m0# Ruth 04 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### King David<br><br>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]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### **You must also acquire Ruth the Moabite woman**<br><br>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.<br><br>### **This was the custom in former times**<br><br>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 gateThis 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-redeemerThis was the closest living relative to Elimelek. See how you translated **kinsman-redeemer** in [2:20](../02/20/zu5f).
183RUT42bf74מִ⁠זִּקְנֵ֥י הָ⁠עִ֖יר1from the elders of the city***from the leaders of the city***
184RUT43es9gחֶלְקַת֙ הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֔ה…מָכְרָ֣ה נָעֳמִ֔י1Naomi…is selling the parcel of landIt 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 itThis meant to buy the land to keep it within their family.
187RUT44u548וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י אַחֲרֶ֑י⁠ךָ1and I am after youBoaz was the next kinsman in line to redeem the land.
188RUT45ut23בְּ⁠יוֹם־קְנוֹתְ⁠ךָ֥…וּ֠⁠מֵ⁠אֵת…קָנִ֔יתָה1On the day that you buy…you must also acquireBoaz 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 NaomiHere the word **hand** represents Naomi, who owns the field. Alternate translation: “from Naomi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
190RUT45dya3figs-idiomוּ֠⁠מֵ⁠אֵת ר֣וּת…קָנִ֔יתָה1you 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 deadRuth'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 inheritanceIf 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 otherThis 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 peopleThis 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 MahlonsThis refers to all the land and possessions of Naomis dead husband and sons.
201RUT49lwx9figs-synecdocheמִ⁠יַּ֖ד נָעֳמִֽי1from the hand of NaomiThe 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 inheritanceThe 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 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 the people of this town” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
205RUT410xpu5וּ⁠מִ⁠שַּׁ֣עַר מְקוֹמ֑⁠וֹ1and from the gate of his placeThe 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 houseThis 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 LeahThese 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 BethlehemThe 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 EphrathahEphrathah 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 JudahGod 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 JudahTamar, 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 youYahweh would give Boaz children through Ruth.
215RUT413abccfigs-parallelismוַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח בֹּ֤עַז אֶת־רוּת֙ וַ⁠תְּהִי־ל֣⁠וֹ לְ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה1So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wifeThe 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 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]])
218RUT414qj8vfigs-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]])
219RUT414p8p3וְ⁠יִקָּרֵ֥א שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ1May his name be famousThis refers to the reputation and character of Naomis grandson.
220RUT415hz3eלְ⁠מֵשִׁ֣יב נֶ֔פֶשׁ1one who restores lifeThis 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 childThis 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](../04/17/f9ha)