King James Version
What Does Ruth 3:10 Mean?
“And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich.”
Context
8
And it came to pass at midnight , that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet. turned: or, took hold on
9
And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman. a near: or, one that hath right to redeem
10
And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich.
11
And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman. city: Heb. gate
12
And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **Blessed be thou of the Lord.**—This answer of Boaz’s is in itself a sufficient proof of the view he took of her conduct, and of the integrity of his own. We note, too, that this blessing follows immediately on the avowal of her name. His own feelings had already been attuned to due honour and respect for Ruth; he is prepared not only to discharge the duty of next of kin, but to do it in no perfunctory spirit, but with a sincere loyal affection. The Targum on Ruth 3:15 supposes that to Ruth, the distant ancestress of the Saviour, was vouchsafed the knowledge, as in its fulness to the Virgin hereafter, of the birth of the Messiah through her. Origen compares Ruth to the Gentile Church, the engrafted wild olive.
**Thou hast shewed . . . .**—Literally, *thou hast done well thy latter kindness above the former.*
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Ruth. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Ruth 3:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Ruth 3:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge