“And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law.”– Ruth 3:17 (KJV)
“She added, ‘He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, “Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.”’”– Ruth 3:17 (NLT)
“She said, ‘He gave me these six bars of barley; he told me not to go back to my mother-in-law empty handed.’”– Ruth 3:17 (MSG)
What Does Ruth 3:17 Mean?
The verse emphasizes the importance of not returning empty-handed, which symbolizes respect and gratitude. In the context of this story, Ruth had been working diligently in the fields. She had a remarkable opportunity to offer and express gratitude to her mother-in-law, Naomi. The six measures of barley served not just as food but also as a representation of a security for the future and a means to mend relationships. Symbolically, this tells us that our efforts are never unrecognized. God sees our contributions and will often provide for us in ways that transcend human understanding. It’s about the abundance and blessings that result from acts of kindness and hard work.
Furthermore, the act of giving signifies a connection or relationship that can be built with transparency. Here, Boaz provides not just sustenance but also hopes for a promising future. It narrows down on the fact that in community and familial ties, it’s essential to offer love and support during challenging times. Through this passage, we might glean that our relationships can flourish if we maintain kindness and generosity towards one another. This simple directive to not go back empty-handed extends to our daily lives. Each kindness we show and receive helps to bind us together.
Ruth 3:17 Explanation and Commentary
In the broader context of the book of Ruth, the gesture of Boaz condenses the cultural practice of taking care of family. Not only is Ruth shown kindness, but this also reveals the importance of community and familial responsibilities. Going back to one’s family with offerings symbolizes a heart that values relationships and family ties. For example, in our lives, we might remember the times when we have returned from meetings or gatherings with something for our families. It showcases our appreciation and reminds them that they were loved, even when we are apart.
Furthermore, Ruth’s mention of specific measures — six, in this instance — often holds a deeper meaning. Six measures can indicate completeness or thoroughness. The specific amount serves to encourage the belief that resources are fully utilized for the benefit of others, and it inspires us to use our resources wisely to promote well-being within our families and friendships. We learn that any small act can have ripple effects, bringing joy and strengthening connections within our family bonds.
As families, we continuously become our brother’s keeper. We can reflect on Boaz’s actions. He assured Ruth that she would not return empty-handed, which serves as a vivid reminder of God’s provision for us. It fulfills the notion that we serve a God who empowers us, shaping hearts to give and to share generously. Just like Boaz, we can commit to ensuring that those we care for do not struggle in silence.
We observe throughout the Book of Ruth that family plays a significant role in our identities. We often experience challenges and uncertainties; yet, having a strong support system allows us to navigate through life. This support can manifest in various forms, whether through emotional encouragement, practical help, or even simple gifts as seen in Ruth’s encounter. With Boaz’s kind provision, not only is Ruth blessed, but Naomi also reaps the benefits, demonstrating that our actions have a cascading effect on those around us.
Context of Ruth 3:17
The story of Ruth unfolds in a time of great challenge for the Israelites. Following a famine, Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law, decides to return to her homeland after the death of her husband and sons. Ruth, a Moabitess, stays loyal to Naomi, promising to support her by declaring, “Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay.” This bond symbolizes unwavering loyalty and devotion.
When they arrive in Bethlehem, Ruth takes it upon herself to care for Naomi by gleaning in the fields. Gleaning was a provision that God allowed for the poor; it gave them the chance to gather leftover harvests without owning the land. This means Ruth’s actions are driven by love and necessity. In this context, we see how Ruth’s service leads her to meet Boaz, who serves as a helpful and protective figure. While Ruth is in the field, she gains not just food but also the attention and love of Boaz, who acts as a guardian and provider.
Ruth 3:17 marks a pivotal moment in the story. After Ruth has approached Boaz according to Naomi’s direction, he graciously agrees to protect and care for them. While Boaz had already promised to look after Ruth, he also emphasizes the importance of not returning to Naomi empty-handed. The interaction mirrors God’s promises to us: He fulfills our needs and ensures that we provide for one another, especially in trying circumstances. In honoring Naomi through gifts of barley, Ruth symbolizes carrying forth a spirit of service and generosity.
This backdrop teaches us about responsibilities within familial and communal structures. It defines how we honor those who have cared for us. No one is an island; our relationships and interactions matter. Ruth’s actions continue to show us that we must prioritize those who mean the most. This passage reflects on how God provides bountifully when we choose faithfulness and serve each other selflessly.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ruth 3:17
When analyzing the text, we can observe the significance of the measures of barley themselves. The six measures carry various interpretations, but they mainly symbolize abundance. Boaz’s providing of barley to Ruth is not just about sustenance but signifies that she would have enough to increase her family’s well-being. This highlights that generosity is a gift that we should invest in with faith, knowing that it will yield positive outcomes for those we care for.
Additionally, when he tells her, “Go not empty unto thy mother-in-law,” it emphasizes our obligations to family. Oftentimes, in our society today, we can become so focused on our lives that we forget the importance of family support systems. The reminder here is significant; it encourages us not to forget our roots and those who love us unconditionally. It’s a call to both honor our relationships and give back in meaningful ways. Having the ability to “not return empty” elevates the connections we have with others.
Lastly, we consider the personal impact on Ruth’s journey. This moment shapes her courage and perseverance, which ultimately lead to her journey’s fulfillment. We all can recall moments in our lives when we felt overwhelmed but reminded ourselves to press on through determination and faith. Ruth embodies this spirit truly. If we ever find moments where we feel powerless or lost, we can circle back to her story. The act of returning not empty-handed continues to resonate in our daily interactions.
Ultimately, Ruth 3:17 serves as a beautiful reminder that we must remain bearers of kindness. It encourages us to support those who have cared for us with gratitude and generosity. As we continue to explore this narrative, we realize that the relationships we build have lasting importance in our lives and communities.
Lessons to Learn From Ruth 3:17
This passage teaches us several significant lessons. Firstly, it highlights the essence of reciprocity in relationships. When we receive kindness, we are motivated to return that kindness in some capacity. It underlines the spirit of reciprocity that promotes deeper connections among families and friends. Working together for one another strengthens our bonds and enriches our lives.
Another lesson we uncover is the importance of family ties. In a rapidly changing world, family can sometimes feel strained or abandoned. However, Ruth 3:17 calls us to recognize the significance of supporting those who love us. This passage implicitly reinforces the idea that we must never take our loved ones for granted. We should strive to take action when those we care for are in need, just as Ruth did.
Moreover, we see that our contributions to others can significantly impact their lives. Each small, simple act holds the possibility of quite a profound effect on another person’s life. This underscores our responsibility to uplift and nourish those who may not feel seen or appreciated. Ruth’s provision of barley serves as an example of how even the smallest of acts can promote hope and uplift hearts.
Lastly, we observe the theme of perseverance and faithfulness. In a time of uncertainty and heartache, Ruth’s determination serves as a model for us. It reminds us to believe in the power of our choices and to remain steadfast even when challenges arise. The story illustrates that we can draw strength from our faith, and it encourages us to embody resilience.
Final Thoughts
Ruth 3:17 beautifully encapsulates themes of generosity, familial love, and faithfulness. The life lessons derived from this single verse remind us about the importance of nurturing those around us and highlighting our interconnectedness. As we reflect on this verse, let us embrace the practice of giving and seek to fill the needs of those we encounter.
As we read through the Bible, many lessons arise that resonate with our experiences. We become aware of gratitude in serving our families, a value that the characters in these stories uphold. By encouraging one another in kindness, we embody the true heart of the Gospel message. We invite you to explore more passages and stories, such as Acts 14:24 or Joshua 10:18, that capture the essence of community, support, and divine purpose in our journey together. Together, we can reflect on how to shine light in the lives of those we cherish.