“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.”– Ruth 3:10 (KJV)
“The LORD bless you, my daughter!” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: you have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor.”– Ruth 3:10 (NLT)
“He said, ‘God bless you, my dear daughter! You are showing more strength than before. You could have gone after a younger man, whether rich or poor, but you didn’t.'”– Ruth 3:10 (MSG)
What Does Ruth 3:10 Mean?
Ruth 3:10 speaks about a beautiful moment in the story of Ruth and Boaz. It reveals the character of Ruth and her dedication. When Boaz expresses his admiration for Ruth’s kindness, he acknowledges the choices Ruth made regarding her relationships. Instead of pursuing younger men, she chose to honor her deceased husband’s family by seeking refuge and security with Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer. This establishes a unique bond rooted not only in love but also in loyalty and duty.
The term “kindness” in Ruth’s act is significant; it is not just about love but also includes devotion. Her decision contrasts with the typical norms of the time, where younger women often sought relationships with younger men for security and social standing. Ruth’s choice signifies a depth of loyalty to Naomi and her deceased husband, indicating a character trait of true goodness. We can see that Ruth’s actions are driven by a heartfelt commitment rather than opportunism.
Ruth 3:10 Explanation and Commentary
This verse beautifully captures the essence of Ruth’s character and highlights the themes of loyalty and redemption. When Boaz observes Ruth’s actions, he maintains a sense of reverence for her sacrifice. He calls her “my daughter,” which is a term of endearment, suggesting a protective and caring stance towards her. Boaz recognizes that Ruth had the choice to pursue younger men but chose to stay steadfast in her commitment to her late husband’s identity and legacy.
In a world full of fleeting desires and superficial relationships, Ruth’s decision stands as a testimony to long-lasting values of fidelity and kindness. Boaz’s acknowledgment that Ruth has “shown more kindness” in her later actions than in the earlier days serves to emphasize her growth. This serves as a wonderful reminder to us that life often presents us with choices that can define our future. In every choice we make, we have the opportunity to either honor what is good or chase after what merely appears appealing.
This moment in Ruth’s story teaches us that true kindness isn’t just about actions; rather, it’s a reflection of our intentions and the state of our hearts. Boaz celebrates her choice to remain faithful and submissive, indicating that Ruth’s actions were not just a means of securing her future but an act of love that deeply respects the family’s heritage.
We might also recognize the importance of decision-making in our lives. There are moments where we, too, have to make choices that may not conform to societal standards. These are often the moments that define our characters. Just like Ruth, showing kindness often involves our willingness to sacrifice immediate gratification for the sake of others or for something much greater. With this perspective, we can see that each choice is a chance to demonstrate our integrity and devotion.
Context of Ruth 3:10
To fully appreciate Ruth 3:10, we should consider the context surrounding it. The book of Ruth takes place during a challenging time in Israel’s history, marked by famine and social upheaval. Ruth, a Moabite woman, showed extraordinary loyalty to her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of her husband. Despite the barriers of nationality and cultural differences, Ruth committed herself to Naomi, saying famously, “Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay, your people will be my people, and your God my God.” This verse illustrates a profound act of devotion and lays the groundwork for the events that follow.
In the ensuing chapters, we witness Ruth and Naomi navigating the challenges of widowhood and poverty. The story unfolds with Boaz stepping into the role of the kinsman-redeemer, a relative who had the right to redeem Ruth and provide for her. We see the unfolding beauty of the relationship between these two characters—a story of loyalty on Ruth’s part and grace on Boaz’s.
Ruth 3:10 finds itself right in the middle of this narrative, as it marks a turning point where Ruth approaches Boaz under the cover of night at the threshing floor. This act symbolizes not just her vulnerability but also her faith in God’s plan for her life. It reflects her understanding of the customs around redemption and her willingness to step into an unknown future. The cultural context emphasizes the significance of kinship and community, illuminating why Ruth’s actions were both risky and noble.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ruth 3:10
When Boaz addresses Ruth, he first blesses her, saying, “Blessed be thou of the Lord.” This blessing is not just a polite phrase but indicates his recognition of Ruth’s faithfulness and moral character. In blessedness, he acknowledges the divine approval of her choices, suggesting that God honors the intentions of her heart.
The second part, “for thou hast showed more kindness,” points towards the core of Ruth’s actions. The Hebrew word for kindness here is ‘hesed,’ which embodies loving-kindness, mercy, and loyalty. Ruth’s demonstration of this profound kindness towards Naomi and in her actions to secure a future with Boaz encapsulates the essence of her character. It is not merely about romantic affection but expresses the deep-rooted loyalty she has formed with her mother-in-law and the commitment to her late husband’s family.
Boaz’s remark about Ruth’s choice not to pursue younger men serves as a double affirmation. It acknowledges Ruth’s moral integrity and assists in illustrating the cultural expectations surrounding women in that era. Instead of seeking comfort in youthful allurements, she remained committed to her responsibilities. This may serve as an analogy for us, as it gently reminds us that true fulfillment often does not come from chasing after what seems easy or attractive, but from the steadfastness we exhibit in the face of challenges.
The verse encapsulates the beauty of trust and hope in God’s providence. Ruth’s actions reflect an understanding that her future was not solely dependent on her choices but also divinely orchestrated. As Boaz admires her decision, it returns our focus to the importance of making choices that align with our morals and faith—a refreshing reminder that in every choice, there exists an opportunity to reflect love and loyalty.
Lessons to Learn From Ruth 3:10
Ruth 3:10 is packed with wisdom and offers various lessons we can apply in our lives today. One of the most prominent lessons revolves around kindness and loyalty. Ruth’s dedication to Naomi and her willingness to honor her late husband exemplify the character traits we should aspire to cultivate. Choosing to honor relationships and commitments is a reflection of our character and values and can often lead to fulfillment beyond what we can imagine.
We learn that acts of kindness arise from a heart of love. Ruth’s decision to stick with Naomi and seek refuge in Boaz emphasizes that genuine love often encompasses sacrifice. It’s a reminder that in our relationships—with family, friends, and others—we should seek to act with thoughtfulness and compassion, ensuring that our intentions align with our actions.
Additionally, we glean the importance of trusting in God’s plan. Ruth’s choices were based on faith, knowing that her future was in God’s hands. This emphasizes how vital it is for us to cultivate trust, particularly during times of uncertainty or challenge. We may not always understand the paths we are on, but as Ruth demonstrated, remaining faithful can lead to surprising blessings and provisions.
Lastly, the passage encourages us to be people of integrity. In a society focused on physical appearances and temporary gratification, we are reminded that true value lies in our character and authenticity. Ruth demonstrated courage and integrity in her choices, reinforcing the idea that maintaining our integrity can open doors to extraordinary outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Ruth 3:10 serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty of loyalty, kindness, and integrity. The story of Ruth and Boaz is timeless, offering lessons that resonate across generations. We are reminded of the significance of our choices and how those choices can transform our lives and the lives of those around us. Ruth’s character challenges us to be steadfast, to act with purpose, and to remain trusting in God’s will.
As we reflect on this verse, we’re encouraged to ask ourselves: Are our actions rooted in kindness and love? Are we nurturing relationships with a heart of loyalty? And are we trusting God’s wisdom in our lives? Let us strive to embody the traits that Ruth showcased, ensuring that we forge paths of integrity, compassion, and faith that can serve as examples to others.
If you want to explore more lessons from the Bible, consider reading about Joshua and his obedience, acts of kindness in the New Testament, or even how relationships can deepen our faith. Each of these stories carries profound insights that can enrich our understanding and walk.