Ruth 3:4
Ruth 3:4 in Multiple Translations
When he lies down, note the place where he lies. Then go in and uncover his feet, and lie down, and he will explain to you what you should do.”
And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
But see to it, when he goes to rest, that you take note of the place where he is sleeping, and go in there, and, uncovering his feet, take your place by him; and he will say what you are to do.
watch where he goes to lie down. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. Then he will tell you what to do.”
And when he shall sleepe, marke the place where he layeth him downe, and go, and vncouer the place of his feete, and lay thee downe, and he shall tell thee what thou shalt doe.
and it cometh to pass when he lieth down, that thou hast known the place where he lieth down, and hast gone in, and uncovered his feet, and lain down, — and he doth declare to thee that which thou dost do.'
It shall be, when he lies down, that you shall note the place where he is lying. Then you shall go in, uncover his feet, and lie down. Then he will tell you what to do.”
And it shall be when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
And when he shall go to sleep, mark the place wherein he sleepeth: and thou shalt go in, and lift up the clothes wherewith he is covered towards his feet, and shalt lay thyself down there: and he will tell thee what thou must do.
When he has finished eating, notice where he lies down to sleep. Then when he is asleep, take the blanket off his feet and lie close to his feet. When he wakes up, he will tell you what to do.”
Berean Amplified Bible — Ruth 3:4
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Ruth 3:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וִ/יהִ֣י
בְ/שָׁכְב֗/וֹ
וְ/יָדַ֨עַתְּ֙
אֶת
הַ/מָּקוֹם֙
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
יִשְׁכַּב
שָׁ֔ם
וּ/בָ֛את
וְ/גִלִּ֥ית
מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י/ו
ו/שכבתי
וְ/שָׁכָ֑בְתְּ
וְ/הוּא֙
יַגִּ֣יד
לָ֔/ךְ
אֵ֖ת
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
תַּעַשִֽׂי/ן
וִ/יהִ֣י
hâyâh
H1961
to be
Conj | V-Qal-Juss-3ms
בְ/שָׁכְב֗/וֹ
shâkab
H7901
to lie down
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
וְ/יָדַ֨עַתְּ֙
yâdaʻ
H3045
to know
Conj | V-Qal-2fs
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
הַ/מָּקוֹם֙
mâqôwm
H4725
place
Art | N-ms
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
יִשְׁכַּב
shâkab
H7901
to lie down
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
שָׁ֔ם
shâm
H8033
there
Adv
וּ/בָ֛את
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Conj | V-Qal-2fs
וְ/גִלִּ֥ית
gâlâh
H1540
to reveal
Conj | V-Piel-2fs
מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י/ו
margᵉlâh
H4772
feet
N-fp | Suff
ו/שכבתי
shâkab
H7901
to lie down
Conj | V-Qal-1cs
וְ/שָׁכָ֑בְתְּ
shâkab
H7901
to lie down
Conj | V-Qal-2fs
וְ/הוּא֙
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Conj | Pron
יַגִּ֣יד
nâgad
H5046
to tell
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
לָ֔/ךְ
Prep | Suff
אֵ֖ת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
תַּעַשִֽׂי/ן
ʻâsâh
H6213
to make
V-Qal-Imperf-2fs | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Ruth 3:4
וִ/יהִ֣י
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
Conj | V-Qal-Juss-3ms
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
בְ/שָׁכְב֗/וֹ
shâkab
H7901
"to lie down"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
To lie down can mean to rest, sleep, or have sexual relations, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible. It can also mean to relax or be at rest.
Definition: : lay_down/lie_with 1) to lie down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lie, lie down, lie on 1a2) to lodge 1a3) to lie (of sexual relations) 1a4) to lie down (in death) 1a5) to rest, relax (fig) 1b) (Niphal) to be lain with (sexually) 1c) (Pual) to be lain with (sexually) 1d) (Hiphil) to make to lie down 1e) (Hophal) to be laid
Usage: Occurs in 194 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, cast down, (lover-)lay (self) (down), (make to) lie (down, down to sleep, still with), lodge, ravish, take rest, sleep, stay. See also: Genesis 19:4; 1 Kings 11:43; Psalms 3:6.
וְ/יָדַ֨עַתְּ֙
yâdaʻ
H3045
"to know"
Conj | V-Qal-2fs
The Hebrew word for to know means to ascertain by seeing, and is used in many senses, including to learn, perceive, and recognize, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to know 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to know 1a1a) to know, learn to know 1a1b) to perceive 1a1c) to perceive and see, find out and discern 1a1d) to discriminate, distinguish 1a1e) to know by experience 1a1f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess 1a1g) to consider 1a2) to know, be acquainted with 1a3) to know (a person carnally) 1a4) to know how, be skilful in 1a5) to have knowledge, be wise 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed 1b2) to make oneself known 1b3) to be perceived 1b4) to be instructed 1c) (Piel) to cause to know 1d) (Poal) to cause to know 1e) (Pual) 1e1) to be known 1e2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle) 1f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare 1g) (Hophal) to be made known 1h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדַע "to know" H3046)
Usage: Occurs in 874 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, acquaintance(-ted with), advise, answer, appoint, assuredly, be aware, (un-) awares, can(-not), certainly, comprehend, consider, [idiom] could they, cunning, declare, be diligent, (can, cause to) discern, discover, endued with, familiar friend, famous, feel, can have, be (ig-) norant, instruct, kinsfolk, kinsman, (cause to let, make) know, (come to give, have, take) knowledge, have (knowledge), (be, make, make to be, make self) known, [phrase] be learned, [phrase] lie by man, mark, perceive, privy to, [idiom] prognosticator, regard, have respect, skilful, shew, can (man of) skill, be sure, of a surety, teach, (can) tell, understand, have (understanding), [idiom] will be, wist, wit, wot. See also: Genesis 3:5; Leviticus 5:4; Judges 21:12.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הַ/מָּקוֹם֙
mâqôwm
H4725
"place"
Art | N-ms
Maqom means a place or location, like a city or a region. It can also refer to a condition of the body or mind. This term is used to describe a wide range of locations and situations.
Definition: 1) standing place, place 1a) standing place, station, post, office 1b) place, place of human abode 1c) city, land, region 1d) place, locality, spot 1e) space, room, distance 1f) region, quarter, direction 1g) give place to, instead of
Usage: Occurs in 379 OT verses. KJV: country, [idiom] home, [idiom] open, place, room, space, [idiom] whither(-soever). See also: Genesis 1:9; Deuteronomy 12:3; 1 Kings 20:24.
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
יִשְׁכַּב
shâkab
H7901
"to lie down"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
To lie down can mean to rest, sleep, or have sexual relations, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible. It can also mean to relax or be at rest.
Definition: : lay_down/lie_with 1) to lie down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lie, lie down, lie on 1a2) to lodge 1a3) to lie (of sexual relations) 1a4) to lie down (in death) 1a5) to rest, relax (fig) 1b) (Niphal) to be lain with (sexually) 1c) (Pual) to be lain with (sexually) 1d) (Hiphil) to make to lie down 1e) (Hophal) to be laid
Usage: Occurs in 194 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, cast down, (lover-)lay (self) (down), (make to) lie (down, down to sleep, still with), lodge, ravish, take rest, sleep, stay. See also: Genesis 19:4; 1 Kings 11:43; Psalms 3:6.
שָׁ֔ם
shâm
H8033
"there"
Adv
The Hebrew word sham means there or then, often used to describe a location or point in time. It can also mean thither or thence, indicating movement or direction. This word is used frequently in the Bible to provide context and clarify the setting of a story.
Definition: 1) there, thither 1a) there 1b) thither (after verbs of motion) 1c) from there, thence 1d) then (as an adverb of time) Aramaic equivalent: tam.mah (תַּמָּה "there" H8536)
Usage: Occurs in 732 OT verses. KJV: in it, [phrase] thence, there (-in, [phrase] of, [phrase] out), [phrase] thither, [phrase] whither. See also: Genesis 2:8; Exodus 21:33; Deuteronomy 19:4.
וּ/בָ֛את
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Conj | V-Qal-2fs
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
וְ/גִלִּ֥ית
gâlâh
H1540
"to reveal"
Conj | V-Piel-2fs
This Hebrew word means to reveal or uncover something, often in a way that's embarrassing or shameful. It can also mean to exile someone, forcing them to leave their home. In some cases, it's used to describe God revealing himself to people.
Definition: : reveal[information] 1) to uncover, remove 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to uncover 1a2) to remove, depart 1a3) to go into exile 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) (reflexive) 1b1a) to uncover oneself 1b1b) to discover or show oneself 1b1c) to reveal himself (of God) 1b2) (passive) 1b2a) to be uncovered 1b2b) to be disclosed, be discovered 1b2c) to be revealed 1b3) to be removed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to uncover (nakedness) 1c1a) nakedness 1c1b) general 1c2) to disclose, discover, lay bare 1c3) to make known, show, reveal 1d) (Pual) to be uncovered 1e) (Hiphil) to carry away into exile, take into exile 1f) (Hophal) to be taken into exile 1g) (Hithpael) 1g1) to be uncovered 1g2) to reveal oneself
Usage: Occurs in 167 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, appear, bewray, bring, (carry, lead, go) captive (into captivity), depart, disclose, discover, exile, be gone, open, [idiom] plainly, publish, remove, reveal, [idiom] shamelessly, shew, [idiom] surely, tell, uncover. See also: Genesis 9:21; Job 38:17; Psalms 18:16.
מַרְגְּלֹתָ֖י/ו
margᵉlâh
H4772
"feet"
N-fp | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to the feet or a footpiece, often used to describe a place where someone stands. It appears in various contexts, including Genesis and Exodus. The word is related to the idea of a foundation or base.
Definition: place of the feet, feet
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: feet. Compare H4763 (מְרַאֲשָׁה). See also: Ruth 3:4; Ruth 3:8; Daniel 10:6.
ו/שכבתי
shâkab
H7901
"to lie down"
Conj | V-Qal-1cs
To lie down can mean to rest, sleep, or have sexual relations, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible. It can also mean to relax or be at rest.
Definition: : lay_down/lie_with 1) to lie down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lie, lie down, lie on 1a2) to lodge 1a3) to lie (of sexual relations) 1a4) to lie down (in death) 1a5) to rest, relax (fig) 1b) (Niphal) to be lain with (sexually) 1c) (Pual) to be lain with (sexually) 1d) (Hiphil) to make to lie down 1e) (Hophal) to be laid
Usage: Occurs in 194 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, cast down, (lover-)lay (self) (down), (make to) lie (down, down to sleep, still with), lodge, ravish, take rest, sleep, stay. See also: Genesis 19:4; 1 Kings 11:43; Psalms 3:6.
וְ/שָׁכָ֑בְתְּ
shâkab
H7901
"to lie down"
Conj | V-Qal-2fs
To lie down can mean to rest, sleep, or have sexual relations, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible. It can also mean to relax or be at rest.
Definition: : lay_down/lie_with 1) to lie down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lie, lie down, lie on 1a2) to lodge 1a3) to lie (of sexual relations) 1a4) to lie down (in death) 1a5) to rest, relax (fig) 1b) (Niphal) to be lain with (sexually) 1c) (Pual) to be lain with (sexually) 1d) (Hiphil) to make to lie down 1e) (Hophal) to be laid
Usage: Occurs in 194 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, cast down, (lover-)lay (self) (down), (make to) lie (down, down to sleep, still with), lodge, ravish, take rest, sleep, stay. See also: Genesis 19:4; 1 Kings 11:43; Psalms 3:6.
וְ/הוּא֙
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Conj | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
יַגִּ֣יד
nâgad
H5046
"to tell"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
To tell or declare something openly, as in Genesis 3:11 where God asks Adam to tell the truth. It means to stand boldly and announce something to someone present. In Exodus 32:27, Moses tells the Levites to declare their actions to the people.
Definition: 1) to be conspicuous, tell, make known 1a) (Hiphil) to tell, declare 1a1) to tell, announce, report 1a2) to declare, make known, expound 1a3) to inform of 1a4) to publish, declare, proclaim 1a5) to avow, acknowledge, confess 1a5a) messenger (participle) 1b) (Hophal) to be told, be announced, be reported
Usage: Occurs in 344 OT verses. KJV: bewray, [idiom] certainly, certify, declare(-ing), denounce, expound, [idiom] fully, messenger, plainly, profess, rehearse, report, shew (forth), speak, [idiom] surely, tell, utter. See also: Genesis 3:11; 1 Samuel 14:33; 2 Kings 9:15.
לָ֔/ךְ
""
Prep | Suff
אֵ֖ת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
תַּעַשִֽׂי/ן
ʻâsâh
H6213
"to make"
V-Qal-Imperf-2fs | Suff
This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.
Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made
Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.
Study Notes — Ruth 3:4
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Ruth 3:4 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Ruth 3:4
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ruth 3:4
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
- Trapp's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
- Ellicott's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
- Cambridge Bible on Ruth 3:4
- Barnes' Notes on Ruth 3:4
- Whedon's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
- Sermons on Ruth 3:4
Context — Ruth’s Redemption Assured
2Now is not Boaz, with whose servant girls you have been working, a relative of ours? In fact, tonight he is winnowing barley on the threshing floor.
3Therefore wash yourself, put on perfume, and wear your best clothes. Go down to the threshing floor, but do not let the man know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking.
4When he lies down, note the place where he lies. Then go in and uncover his feet, and lie down, and he will explain to you what you should do.”
5“I will do everything you say,” Ruth answered. 6So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law had instructed her to do.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Thessalonians 5:22 | Abstain from every form of evil. |
Ruth 3:4 Summary
In this verse, Ruth is being instructed by her mother-in-law Naomi to go and lie down at the feet of Boaz, which is a symbol of humility and respect. This action is not about promoting immoral behavior, but rather about showing Ruth's desire to marry Boaz and become part of his family, as seen in the context of the whole story. By doing this, Ruth is trusting God's sovereignty and timing in her life, and she is taking a risk to step out in faith, similar to how Abraham trusted God in Genesis 12:1-3. This verse reminds us that God is always working to bring about His good plans for our lives, even when things seem uncertain or unclear, as seen in Jeremiah 29:11.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of uncovering Boaz's feet in this verse?
Uncovering Boaz's feet is a symbolic gesture, as it shows Ruth's willingness to be in a position of humility and vulnerability before him, similar to how a servant would show respect to their master, as seen in 1 Samuel 25:41, and it is also a way of showing her desire to marry him and become part of his family.
Why did Naomi instruct Ruth to wait until Boaz had finished eating and drinking before approaching him?
Naomi instructed Ruth to wait until Boaz had finished eating and drinking because she wanted to ensure that Boaz was in a good state of mind and not under the influence of wine, which could impair his judgment, as warned against in Proverbs 20:1 and Ephesians 5:18.
Is this verse promoting or condoning immoral behavior?
No, this verse is not promoting or condoning immoral behavior, but rather it is a culturally specific and symbolic action that Ruth is taking to show her desire to marry Boaz and become part of his family, and it is done in a way that is respectful and honorable, as seen in the context of the whole story, especially in Ruth 3:11.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of redemption in the book of Ruth?
This verse is part of the larger story of how God is working to redeem Ruth, a foreigner, and bring her into the family of God, and it shows how Boaz, as a kinsman-redeemer, is playing a key role in this process, as seen in Leviticus 25:25 and Deuteronomy 25:5-10.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can show humility and vulnerability before God, like Ruth did before Boaz?
- How can I trust God's sovereignty and timing in my life, even when things seem uncertain or unclear, like they did for Ruth?
- What are some cultural or symbolic actions that I can take to show my love and devotion to God, like Ruth's actions in this verse?
- How can I, like Ruth, be willing to take risks and step out in faith, even when it feels uncomfortable or uncertain?
Gill's Exposition on Ruth 3:4
And it shall be, when he lieth down,.... On the threshingfloor, under the open air, in order to sleep, and take rest: that thou shall mark the place where he shall lie; the spot he shall lie on, and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ruth 3:4
And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
When he lieth down, to rest or sleep, as upon such occasions they used to do in those hot countries. Thou shalt go in: though Naomi and Ruth seem to be virtuous and modest women, and their intent was lawful and honest; yet there seems to be a manifold irregularity in the manner of it. First, It seems to be against that modesty which should be eminent in that sex, and in unmarried persons. Secondly, Against honesty, both because it was an injury to another person, who was nearer akin, whose right this was; which Naomi could not be ignorant of; and because it was a preposterous and precipitant method, not agreeable either to the rules of Scripture, or the usage of well-mannered nations, or that decency which even nature requires. Thirdly, Against prudence; for it might have proved the occasion, as of many sins, so of great shame to all of them; and a means to alienate his affection from her, which she sought to engage. And though there be some circumstances which alleviate the fact, as the experience which Naomi had of the wisdom and sobriety both of Boaz and of Ruth, yet she knew not what the event would be; and that there was something of shamefulness in the thing, may be gathered both from Naomi’ s choice of the night for it, as if it were a work of darkness, and from Boaz’ s fear lest this should be known, . And it is an aggravation of it, that this course was unnecessary, and she had a plain and likely way, which was directly to address herself to Boaz, or the next kinsman, and to require the duty which by God’ s law he was bound to perform, and this before witnesses, as Boaz did. And her clandestine proceeding seems to have arisen from a distrust of God’ s providence to bring about what she desired in the ordinary way. Uncover his feet; remove the clothes which were upon his feet; thereby to awaken him. What thou shalt do; how thou shouldst carry thyself, or what course thou shalt take to obtain that marriage which belongs unto thee.
Only there were some rites to be observed, and circumstances to be done, before they came to the conclusion of the marriage, about which Boaz would instruct her.
Trapp's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
Rth 3:4 And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.Ver. 4. And it shall be, when he lieth down.] He lay on the floor, as best liked himself, without bed or pallet. Hollinshead saith, that some old men he knew who told of times in England, that if the good man of the house had a mattress, or flock-bed, and a sack of chaff to rest his head on, he thought himself as well lodged as the lord of the town: for ordinarily they lay upon straw pallets covered with canvas, and a round log under their heads instead of a bolster. Pillows, they said, were only for women in child birth. And uncover his feet.] Naomi well knew the piety and chastity of both Boaz and Ruth, and confidently trusted that he would give the young widow good counsel. Otherwise this was a bold adventure: since people are so prone to fleshliness, and unbridled lust, like the wild fig, will soon mount over the wall: it is a "law of the members" in a double sense, as one saith.
Ellicott's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
(4) Uncover his feet.—More literally, as the margin, lift up the clothes that are on his feet; so LXX. and the Vulgate. We are told that the custom still prevails in Palestine of owners of crops sleeping on their threshing-floors, lying with their clothes on, but with their feet covered with a mantle.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
Verse 4. Uncover his feet, and lay thee down] It is said that women in the East, when going to the bed of their lawful husbands, through modesty, and in token of subjection, go to the bed's foot, and gently raising the clothes, creep under them up to their place. See Calmet. On the whole, we must say, had not Boaz been a person of extraordinary piety, prudence, and continence, this experiment might have been fatal to Ruth. We cannot easily account for this transaction, probably Naomi knew more than she revealed to her daughter-in-law. The experiment however was dangerous, and should in no sense be imitated. He will tell thee what thou shalt do] The Targum reads the clause thus: Thou shalt ask counsel from him, "and he shall tell thee what thou shouldest do."
Cambridge Bible on Ruth 3:4
4. And it shall be] More accurately, and let it be … that thou mark; cf. 1 Samuel 10:5, 2 Samuel 5:24 in Hebr. his feet] lit. the place of his feet, where they were covered against the cold of night. Outside this chapter the word occurs only in Daniel 10:6; cf. 1 Samuel 19:13 etc., lit. the place of his head.
Barnes' Notes on Ruth 3:4
Uncover his feet - Rather, “the place of his feet;” the foot of his bed, as we should say. So also Rth 3:7-8.
Whedon's Commentary on Ruth 3:4
4. Uncover his feet, and lay thee down — Viewed in the light of our own age this act would be in the highest degree immodest and presumptuous, but not so according to the laws and manners of that ancient time.
Sermons on Ruth 3:4
| Sermon | Description | |
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Ruth - Part 5 by John McGregor | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the faithfulness and work of God in the lives of believers. The speaker highlights the trust factor between God and His people, using the exa |
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Benediction for the Zion of God by John Alexander Dowie | John Alexander Dowie emphasizes the importance of abstaining from all appearances of evil and calls for complete sanctification by God. He prays for the preservation of the whole s |
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Biblical Seperation by Bill McLeod | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a powerful experience of being moved by the presence of God during a community service. They express their deep emotions and desire to live |
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Freed From Wordly Attitudes by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of walking upright in a crooked world, focusing on avoiding greed, being cautious about unnecessary curiosity, and filling the mind with usefu |
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Godly Sorrow-the Way to Revival by Denny Kenaston | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being on the starting line in our spiritual journey. He encourages the congregation to be alert and ready to run the race s |
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The Desperate Need for Holiness by Shane Idleman | This sermon emphasizes the critical need for holiness in our lives, highlighting the prevalence of sin in our culture and the importance of separating ourselves from worldly influe |
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Leadership in Acts by George Verwer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of accepting the miraculous book of God and pressing on from there. The leader is highlighted as someone who is bold and fille |