added footnotes

Added footnotes using the alpha version of the footnote numbering script.

02 Living/EJ-2.01-Ruth-1.1-4.22.md

@@ -217,247 +217,247 @@ Written in the time of the Judges, Ruth is a story about redemption and faithful
 
 [^61]: **2:7** **except that she rested a little in the house** (**L**: *This is her resting in the house a little* | **S**: *as she rests for a short time under the shelter*) Ruth took a brief break to rest from gleaning grain. Although Ruth worked hard, she also rested. Godly disciples practice a healthy balance of work and rest. Translate **except that she rested a little in the house** to mean Ruth only stopped working for a brief time to rest in a house.
 
-8 Then Boaz said to Ruth, "Are you listening to me, my daughter?[^ ] Do not go and glean in another field; do not leave my field.[^ ] Instead, stay close and work with my young female workers.[^ ] 9 Keep your eyes only on the field where the men are reaping and follow behind the other women.[^ ] Have I not instructed the men not to touch you?[^ ] Whenever you are thirsty, you may go to the waterpots and drink the water that the men have drawn."[^ ] 10 Then she bowed down before Boaz, touching her face to the ground.[^ ] She said to him, "Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should be concerned about me, a foreigner?"[^ ] 11 Boaz answered and said to her, "It has been reported to me, all that you have done since the death of your husband.[^ ] You have left your father, mother, and the land of your birth to follow your mother-in-law and to come to a people you do not know before.[^ ] 12 May Yahweh reward you for your deed.[^ ] May you receive full payment from Yahweh,[^ ] the God of Israel, under whose wings you have found refuge."[^ ] 13 Then she said, "Let me find favor in your eyes,[^ ] my master, for you have comforted me, and you have spoken kindly to me,[^ ] though I am not one of your female servants."[^ ]
+8 Then Boaz said to Ruth, "Are you listening to me, my daughter?[^62] Do not go and glean in another field; do not leave my field.[^63] Instead, stay close and work with my young female workers.[^64] 9 Keep your eyes only on the field where the men are reaping and follow behind the other women.[^65] Have I not instructed the men not to touch you?[^66] Whenever you are thirsty, you may go to the waterpots and drink the water that the men have drawn."[^67] 10 Then she bowed down before Boaz, touching her face to the ground.[^68] She said to him, "Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should be concerned about me, a foreigner?"[^69] 11 Boaz answered and said to her, "It has been reported to me, all that you have done since the death of your husband.[^70] You have left your father, mother, and the land of your birth to follow your mother-in-law and to come to a people you do not know before.[^71] 12 May Yahweh reward you for your deed.[^72] May you receive full payment from Yahweh,[^73] the God of Israel, under whose wings you have found refuge."[^74] 13 Then she said, "Let me find favor in your eyes,[^75] my master, for you have comforted me, and you have spoken kindly to me,[^76] though I am not one of your female servants."[^77]
 
-[^ ]: **2:8** **Are you listening to me, my daughter?** (**L**: *Will you not listen to me, my daughter?* | **S**: *Young lady, please listen to me.*) Boaz told Ruth to listen to the instructions he had to give her. Boaz used this question to cause Ruth to pay attention to what he had to say. In this context, the term **daughter** was a kind way to address a younger woman. Ruth was not the actual daughter of Boaz, but he was treating her kindly and respectfully. When God gives instructions to his people, he wants them to know that he cares for them and wants them to pay attention to his instructions. Translate **Are you listening to me, my daughter?** as a question that instructed Ruth to listen to what Boaz had to say.
+[^62]: **2:8** **Are you listening to me, my daughter?** (**L**: *Will you not listen to me, my daughter?* | **S**: *Young lady, please listen to me.*) Boaz told Ruth to listen to the instructions he had to give her. Boaz used this question to cause Ruth to pay attention to what he had to say. In this context, the term **daughter** was a kind way to address a younger woman. Ruth was not the actual daughter of Boaz, but he was treating her kindly and respectfully. When God gives instructions to his people, he wants them to know that he cares for them and wants them to pay attention to his instructions. Translate **Are you listening to me, my daughter?** as a question that instructed Ruth to listen to what Boaz had to say.
 
-[^ ]: **2:8** **Do not go and glean in another field; do not leave my field** (**L**: *Do not go to glean in another field, and do not even go away from here* | **S**: *You do not need to go to any other field or anywhere else to gather grain*) Boaz instructed Ruth to remain in his field to gather grain. For **glean** see note on 2:2. The phrases **Do not go and glean** and **do not leave** mean similar things and strongly emphasize that Boaz does not want Ruth to gather grain in a field owned by someone else. When God gives instructions to his people, he tells them things they are not to do or to stop doing. Translate **Do not go and glean in another field; do not leave my field** as commands for Ruth to not gather grain in a field owned by someone else and to not leave Boaz's field.
+[^63]: **2:8** **Do not go and glean in another field; do not leave my field** (**L**: *Do not go to glean in another field, and do not even go away from here* | **S**: *You do not need to go to any other field or anywhere else to gather grain*) Boaz instructed Ruth to remain in his field to gather grain. For **glean** see note on 2:2. The phrases **Do not go and glean** and **do not leave** mean similar things and strongly emphasize that Boaz does not want Ruth to gather grain in a field owned by someone else. When God gives instructions to his people, he tells them things they are not to do or to stop doing. Translate **Do not go and glean in another field; do not leave my field** as commands for Ruth to not gather grain in a field owned by someone else and to not leave Boaz's field.
 
-[^ ]: **2:8** **stay close and work with my young female workers** (**L**: *But do this: stick closely to my young female workers* | **S**: *You should stay right here with my servant girls*) Boaz commanded Ruth to remain in his field to gather grain with his own young women workers. The term **stay close** means to cling or hold to. Boaz does not want Ruth to physically cling to his female servants. Instead, he wants Ruth to remain very close to them so that she will be safe.  Boaz provided a community of other young women for her to gather grain. When God gives instructions to his people, he tells them things he wants them to do. God wants his disciples to learn to follow his commands as a part of a godly community. Translate **stay here and work with my young female workers** as a command for Ruth to remain in Boaz's field and gather grain with the group of young women who worked for Boaz.
+[^64]: **2:8** **stay close and work with my young female workers** (**L**: *But do this: stick closely to my young female workers* | **S**: *You should stay right here with my servant girls*) Boaz commanded Ruth to remain in his field to gather grain with his own young women workers. The term **stay close** means to cling or hold to. Boaz does not want Ruth to physically cling to his female servants. Instead, he wants Ruth to remain very close to them so that she will be safe.  Boaz provided a community of other young women for her to gather grain. When God gives instructions to his people, he tells them things he wants them to do. God wants his disciples to learn to follow his commands as a part of a godly community. Translate **stay here and work with my young female workers** as a command for Ruth to remain in Boaz's field and gather grain with the group of young women who worked for Boaz.
 
-[^ ]: **2:9** **Keep your eyes only on the field where the men are reaping and follow behind the other women** (**L**: *Keep your eyes on the field where they are reaping and follow behind them* | **S**: *Watch where the men are harvesting, and follow along behind my servant girls*) Boaz instructed Ruth to gather grain behind the harvesters who worked in Boaz's field. The **eyes** represent seeing. Boaz wants Ruth to focus on gathering grain from his field and no other field. When God gives instructions to his people, he tells them to focus and pay attention to his ways. Translate **Keep your eyes only on the field where the men are reaping and follow behind the other women** as a command to pay attention only to the harvesters working in Boaz's field and gather grain behind them with the other young servants who worked for Boaz.
+[^65]: **2:9** **Keep your eyes only on the field where the men are reaping and follow behind the other women** (**L**: *Keep your eyes on the field where they are reaping and follow behind them* | **S**: *Watch where the men are harvesting, and follow along behind my servant girls*) Boaz instructed Ruth to gather grain behind the harvesters who worked in Boaz's field. The **eyes** represent seeing. Boaz wants Ruth to focus on gathering grain from his field and no other field. When God gives instructions to his people, he tells them to focus and pay attention to his ways. Translate **Keep your eyes only on the field where the men are reaping and follow behind the other women** as a command to pay attention only to the harvesters working in Boaz's field and gather grain behind them with the other young servants who worked for Boaz.
 
-[^ ]: **2:9** **Have I not instructed the men not to touch you?** (**L**: *Have I not instructed the young men not to touch you?* | **S**: *I have told the men who are harvesting not to assault you*)  Boaz provided a safe place for Ruth to gather grain. Boaz used this question to emphasize his hospitality—that he had already made provision to help Ruth. The phrase **not to touch you** was a polite way of saying that the men were not to harm Ruth physically or assault her sexually, and possibly also that the men were not to stop her from gleaning in his field. Boaz already commanded his workers not to do any harm to Ruth. When God gives instructions to his people, he provides protection for them. Translate **Have I not instructed the men not to touch you?** as a question that strongly states that Boaz had given his men strict instructions not to harm Ruth.
+[^66]: **2:9** **Have I not instructed the men not to touch you?** (**L**: *Have I not instructed the young men not to touch you?* | **S**: *I have told the men who are harvesting not to assault you*)  Boaz provided a safe place for Ruth to gather grain. Boaz used this question to emphasize his hospitality—that he had already made provision to help Ruth. The phrase **not to touch you** was a polite way of saying that the men were not to harm Ruth physically or assault her sexually, and possibly also that the men were not to stop her from gleaning in his field. Boaz already commanded his workers not to do any harm to Ruth. When God gives instructions to his people, he provides protection for them. Translate **Have I not instructed the men not to touch you?** as a question that strongly states that Boaz had given his men strict instructions not to harm Ruth.
 
-[^ ]: **2:9** **Whenever you are thirsty, you may go to the waterpots and drink the water that the men have drawn** (**L**: *And when you are thirsty, go to the waterpots and drink from what the young men draw* | **S**: *Whenever you are thirsty, go and get some water to drink from the jars that the men have filled*) Boaz permitted for Ruth to drink water whenever she was thirsty. The word **drawn** describes how Boaz's men gathered water. To **draw** water means to pull up water from a well or to take it out of a storage vessel. Boaz allowed Ruth to freely drink water that his men gathered. When God gives instructions to his people, his generosity provides for their needs. God sustains and strengthens his people when they feel tired and needy. Translate **Whenever you are thirsty, you may go to the waterpots and drink the water that the men have drawn** as an instruction for Ruth to freely go to the pots Boaz's workers filled with water and drink that water whenever she is thirsty.
+[^67]: **2:9** **Whenever you are thirsty, you may go to the waterpots and drink the water that the men have drawn** (**L**: *And when you are thirsty, go to the waterpots and drink from what the young men draw* | **S**: *Whenever you are thirsty, go and get some water to drink from the jars that the men have filled*) Boaz permitted for Ruth to drink water whenever she was thirsty. The word **drawn** describes how Boaz's men gathered water. To **draw** water means to pull up water from a well or to take it out of a storage vessel. Boaz allowed Ruth to freely drink water that his men gathered. When God gives instructions to his people, his generosity provides for their needs. God sustains and strengthens his people when they feel tired and needy. Translate **Whenever you are thirsty, you may go to the waterpots and drink the water that the men have drawn** as an instruction for Ruth to freely go to the pots Boaz's workers filled with water and drink that water whenever she is thirsty.
 
-[^ ]: **2:10** **Then she bowed down before Boaz, touching her face to the ground** (**L**: *she fell on her face and bowed down to the ground* | **S**: *she knelt before him with her face touching the ground*) Ruth responded to Boaz's generosity with honor and humility. The phrase **bowed down** means to bend over to humbly express respect and honor toward someone. A person does this by bending over or kneeling down very low, often with face and hands toward the ground. The phrase **touching her face to the ground** describes the act of bowing down. These 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. These are two descriptions of a single action. Godly disciples show honor to God and other authorities. Godly disciples are also humble. Translate **Then she bowed down before Boaz, touching her face to the ground** to mean Ruth lowered her body to the ground and touched her face to the ground to honor Boaz. 
+[^68]: **2:10** **Then she bowed down before Boaz, touching her face to the ground** (**L**: *she fell on her face and bowed down to the ground* | **S**: *she knelt before him with her face touching the ground*) Ruth responded to Boaz's generosity with honor and humility. The phrase **bowed down** means to bend over to humbly express respect and honor toward someone. A person does this by bending over or kneeling down very low, often with face and hands toward the ground. The phrase **touching her face to the ground** describes the act of bowing down. These 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. These are two descriptions of a single action. Godly disciples show honor to God and other authorities. Godly disciples are also humble. Translate **Then she bowed down before Boaz, touching her face to the ground** to mean Ruth lowered her body to the ground and touched her face to the ground to honor Boaz. 
 
-[^ ]: **2:10** **Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should be concerned about me, a foreigner?** (**L**: *Why have I found favor in your eyes that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?* | **S**: *Why are you being so kind to me? I did not think you would pay any attention to me, since I am a foreigner!*) Ruth was not an Israelite. She wanted to know why Boaz was treating her so kindly. For **found such favor in your eyes**, see note 2:2. In this context, the word **concerned** means recognizing or noticing someone. A **foreigner** is someone from another country. Even though Ruth had privately pledged her loyalty to the God of Israel, everyone knew she was from Moab, not Israel. Often Israelites were not kind to foreigners, even though God wanted them to be kind to them. This shows that Boaz was living to please God. Boaz took notice of Ruth and acted kindly toward her, even though she was from the foreign country of Moab. God shows favor to people even though they do not deserve to be treated kindly. Godly disciples recognize their humble condition. They are very thankful for the things that God graciously provides for them. Translate **Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should be concerned about me, a foreigner?** as a question Ruth asks Boaz to learn why he noticed her and treated her so kindly even though she was a Moabite from a foreign country. 
+[^69]: **2:10** **Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should be concerned about me, a foreigner?** (**L**: *Why have I found favor in your eyes that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?* | **S**: *Why are you being so kind to me? I did not think you would pay any attention to me, since I am a foreigner!*) Ruth was not an Israelite. She wanted to know why Boaz was treating her so kindly. For **found such favor in your eyes**, see note 2:2. In this context, the word **concerned** means recognizing or noticing someone. A **foreigner** is someone from another country. Even though Ruth had privately pledged her loyalty to the God of Israel, everyone knew she was from Moab, not Israel. Often Israelites were not kind to foreigners, even though God wanted them to be kind to them. This shows that Boaz was living to please God. Boaz took notice of Ruth and acted kindly toward her, even though she was from the foreign country of Moab. God shows favor to people even though they do not deserve to be treated kindly. Godly disciples recognize their humble condition. They are very thankful for the things that God graciously provides for them. Translate **Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should be concerned about me, a foreigner?** as a question Ruth asks Boaz to learn why he noticed her and treated her so kindly even though she was a Moabite from a foreign country. 
 
-[^ ]: **2:11** **It has been reported to me, all that you have done since the death of your husband** (**L**: *Everything that you have done with your mother-in-law after the death of your husband has been fully reported to me* | **S**: *People have told me about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since your husband died*) Someone told Boaz all the kind things that Ruth did for Naomi. Godly disciples follow God's ways even when they undergo difficult or painful experiences. Translate **It has been reported to me, all that you have done since the death of your husband** to mean people told Boaz the kind things Ruth did for Naomi from the time Ruth's husband died.
+[^70]: **2:11** **It has been reported to me, all that you have done since the death of your husband** (**L**: *Everything that you have done with your mother-in-law after the death of your husband has been fully reported to me* | **S**: *People have told me about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since your husband died*) Someone told Boaz all the kind things that Ruth did for Naomi. Godly disciples follow God's ways even when they undergo difficult or painful experiences. Translate **It has been reported to me, all that you have done since the death of your husband** to mean people told Boaz the kind things Ruth did for Naomi from the time Ruth's husband died.
 
-[^ ]: **2:11** **to come to a people you do not know before** (*L**: *you came to a people whom you did not know the day before yesterday* | **S**: *you came here to live among people whom you did not previously know*) Ruth chose to move to Bethlehem and live with people she did not previously know. Boaz is referring to Ruth coming to dwell with Naomi in a village and community, a country, and a religion that she did not know. Ruth left her family and country to travel with Naomi to Bethlehem. The word translated **before** literally means the day before yesterday. This phrase emphasizes that it was only recently that Ruth did not know the people in Bethlehem. When people obey God's commands, they may have to do difficult things that are unfamiliar or that make them feel uncomfortable. Translate **to come to a people you do not know** to mean Ruth moved from Moab to Bethlehem and lived in a town with people who were foreign to her.
+[^71]: **2:11** **to come to a people you do not know before** (*L**: *you came to a people whom you did not know the day before yesterday* | **S**: *you came here to live among people whom you did not previously know*) Ruth chose to move to Bethlehem and live with people she did not previously know. Boaz is referring to Ruth coming to dwell with Naomi in a village and community, a country, and a religion that she did not know. Ruth left her family and country to travel with Naomi to Bethlehem. The word translated **before** literally means the day before yesterday. This phrase emphasizes that it was only recently that Ruth did not know the people in Bethlehem. When people obey God's commands, they may have to do difficult things that are unfamiliar or that make them feel uncomfortable. Translate **to come to a people you do not know** to mean Ruth moved from Moab to Bethlehem and lived in a town with people who were foreign to her.
 
-[^ ]: **2:12** **May Yahweh reward you for your deed** (**L**: *May Yahweh reward your work* | **S**: *I pray that Yahweh will fully repay you for what you have done*). Boaz asked God to bless Ruth for the good things she did for Naomi. The word **reward** means to pay someone back. God blesses people who do good things that God commands. Translate **May Yahweh reward you for your deed** as a request that God pay Ruth back for the loyal and kind way she treated Naomi.
+[^72]: **2:12** **May Yahweh reward you for your deed** (**L**: *May Yahweh reward your work* | **S**: *I pray that Yahweh will fully repay you for what you have done*). Boaz asked God to bless Ruth for the good things she did for Naomi. The word **reward** means to pay someone back. God blesses people who do good things that God commands. Translate **May Yahweh reward you for your deed** as a request that God pay Ruth back for the loyal and kind way she treated Naomi.
 
-[^ ]: **2:12** **May you receive full payment from Yahweh** (**L**: *may your full wages come from Yahweh* | **S**: *May Yahweh reward you in full*) Boaz asked God to give good things to Ruth. Full payment means a wage or payment someone receives for some work. The phrases **reward** and **full payment** are similar in meaning and emphasize Boaz's prayer for God to bless Ruth. God provides good things for his people when they obey his commands. Translate **May you receive full payment from Yahweh** as a request that Yahweh fully gives Ruth everything she deserves for doing her good deeds for Naomi.
+[^73]: **2:12** **May you receive full payment from Yahweh** (**L**: *may your full wages come from Yahweh* | **S**: *May Yahweh reward you in full*) Boaz asked God to give good things to Ruth. Full payment means a wage or payment someone receives for some work. The phrases **reward** and **full payment** are similar in meaning and emphasize Boaz's prayer for God to bless Ruth. God provides good things for his people when they obey his commands. Translate **May you receive full payment from Yahweh** as a request that Yahweh fully gives Ruth everything she deserves for doing her good deeds for Naomi.
 
-[^ ]: **2:12** **under whose wings you have found refuge** (**L**: *the one whom you are trusting to protect you* | **S**: *under whose wings you have come for refuge*) Ruth trusted in God and placed herself in God's safe care. Boaz uses the picture of a mother bird gathering her chicks under her wings to protect them to describe God’s protection for those who trust in him. God protected Ruth like an eagle protects its young by covering them under its wings. The word **found refuge** means to be in a place of protection and safety. People cannot please God simply by trying to obey his commands. First, God wants people to trust him. When people trust God, God calls them to follow his commands. God protects his people with strength. God gives his people safety and security. Translate **under whose wings you have found refuge** to mean Ruth trusted God, and God protected her like a mother bird protects her young chicks under its wings.
+[^74]: **2:12** **under whose wings you have found refuge** (**L**: *the one whom you are trusting to protect you* | **S**: *under whose wings you have come for refuge*) Ruth trusted in God and placed herself in God's safe care. Boaz uses the picture of a mother bird gathering her chicks under her wings to protect them to describe God’s protection for those who trust in him. God protected Ruth like an eagle protects its young by covering them under its wings. The word **found refuge** means to be in a place of protection and safety. People cannot please God simply by trying to obey his commands. First, God wants people to trust him. When people trust God, God calls them to follow his commands. God protects his people with strength. God gives his people safety and security. Translate **under whose wings you have found refuge** to mean Ruth trusted God, and God protected her like a mother bird protects her young chicks under its wings.
 
-[^ ]: **2:13** **Let me find favor in your eyes**. See note on 2:2.
+[^75]: **2:13** **Let me find favor in your eyes**. See note on 2:2.
 
-[^ ]: **2:13** **for you have comforted me, and you have spoken kindly to me** (**L**: *since you have comforted me, and since you have spoken to the heart* | **S**: *You have comforted me by being so kind to me*). Boaz caused Ruth's suffering not to be so severe or painful. Boaz also said kind things to Ruth. The word **comforted** means to relieve someone of pain or trouble. The phrase **spoken kindly** means to say kind things to someone in an affectionate way that comes from one's heart. When God's people receive God's comfort and kindness, they are motivated to follow his ways. Translate **for you have comforted me, and you have spoken kindly to me** to mean Boaz relieved Ruth of her trouble and said many kind things to her.
+[^76]: **2:13** **for you have comforted me, and you have spoken kindly to me** (**L**: *since you have comforted me, and since you have spoken to the heart* | **S**: *You have comforted me by being so kind to me*). Boaz caused Ruth's suffering not to be so severe or painful. Boaz also said kind things to Ruth. The word **comforted** means to relieve someone of pain or trouble. The phrase **spoken kindly** means to say kind things to someone in an affectionate way that comes from one's heart. When God's people receive God's comfort and kindness, they are motivated to follow his ways. Translate **for you have comforted me, and you have spoken kindly to me** to mean Boaz relieved Ruth of her trouble and said many kind things to her.
 
-[^ ]: **2:13** **though I am not one of your female servants** (**L**: *But as for me, I am not even like one of your female servants* | **S**: *yet I am not even one of your servant girls*) Ruth recognized that Boaz did not have to treat her so kindly. The term **female servant** means a female who works for (or obeys) another person, either by choice or by force. Ruth was not one of Boaz's hired servants, yet he treated her like she was one of his own. When God saves his people, he makes them his own and treats them kindly even though they do not deserve it. Translate **though I am not one of your female servants** to mean Boaz treated Ruth kindly even though she was not one of Boaz's servant girls. 
+[^77]: **2:13** **though I am not one of your female servants** (**L**: *But as for me, I am not even like one of your female servants* | **S**: *yet I am not even one of your servant girls*) Ruth recognized that Boaz did not have to treat her so kindly. The term **female servant** means a female who works for (or obeys) another person, either by choice or by force. Ruth was not one of Boaz's hired servants, yet he treated her like she was one of his own. When God saves his people, he makes them his own and treats them kindly even though they do not deserve it. Translate **though I am not one of your female servants** to mean Boaz treated Ruth kindly even though she was not one of Boaz's servant girls. 
 
-14 At mealtime Boaz said to Ruth, "Come here, and eat some of the bread, and dip your morsel in the wine vinegar."[^ ] She sat beside the reapers, and he offered her some roasted grain. She ate until she was satisfied and left the rest of it.[^ ] 15 As she got up to gather up grain, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, "Let her gather up the grain even among the bundles,[^ ] and do not humiliate her.[^ ] 16 Also pull out for her some ears of grain from the bundles, and leave them for her to gather up,[^ ] and do not rebuke her."[^ ]
+14 At mealtime Boaz said to Ruth, "Come here, and eat some of the bread, and dip your morsel in the wine vinegar."[^78] She sat beside the reapers, and he offered her some roasted grain. She ate until she was satisfied and left the rest of it.[^79] 15 As she got up to gather up grain, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, "Let her gather up the grain even among the bundles,[^80] and do not humiliate her.[^81] 16 Also pull out for her some ears of grain from the bundles, and leave them for her to gather up,[^82] and do not rebuke her."[^83]
 
-[^ ]: **2:14** **dip your morsel in the wine vinegar** (**L**: *dip your piece in the vinegar* | **S**: *Take this bread and dip it in the vinegar and eat it*). Boaz invited Ruth to eat a meal. This was a simple meal eaten in the field. People would sit on the ground around a cloth with a bowl of wine vinegar and pieces of broken bread. They would take a piece of bread and dip it in the wine vinegar to add flavor before they ate it. The **vinegar** was a sauce into which they dipped bread. The Israelites made vinegar from grape juice that was fermented beyond the point of being wine. At the vinegar stage, the juice becomes very sour and acidic. Boaz was very hospitable to Ruth. Translate **dip your morsel in the wine vinegar** as a command to eat a meal by dipping a piece of bread into the sauce.
+[^78]: **2:14** **dip your morsel in the wine vinegar** (**L**: *dip your piece in the vinegar* | **S**: *Take this bread and dip it in the vinegar and eat it*). Boaz invited Ruth to eat a meal. This was a simple meal eaten in the field. People would sit on the ground around a cloth with a bowl of wine vinegar and pieces of broken bread. They would take a piece of bread and dip it in the wine vinegar to add flavor before they ate it. The **vinegar** was a sauce into which they dipped bread. The Israelites made vinegar from grape juice that was fermented beyond the point of being wine. At the vinegar stage, the juice becomes very sour and acidic. Boaz was very hospitable to Ruth. Translate **dip your morsel in the wine vinegar** as a command to eat a meal by dipping a piece of bread into the sauce.
 
-[^ ]: **2:14** **She ate until she was satisfied and left the rest of it** (**L**: *she ate, and she was satisfied, and she had some left over* | **S**: *She ate all that she wanted and had some left over*) Ruth ate enough food until she was no longer hungry. After she finished eating, there was still more food left over. In this context, the word **satisfied** means to eat until one is full. Although Ruth was a young foreign woman, God provided for her through Boaz's generosity. When God's people follow God's ways, God provides what his people need. Translate **She ate until she was satisfied and left the rest of it** to mean Ruth ate enough food so that she was no longer hungry, and she left extra food.
+[^79]: **2:14** **She ate until she was satisfied and left the rest of it** (**L**: *she ate, and she was satisfied, and she had some left over* | **S**: *She ate all that she wanted and had some left over*) Ruth ate enough food until she was no longer hungry. After she finished eating, there was still more food left over. In this context, the word **satisfied** means to eat until one is full. Although Ruth was a young foreign woman, God provided for her through Boaz's generosity. When God's people follow God's ways, God provides what his people need. Translate **She ate until she was satisfied and left the rest of it** to mean Ruth ate enough food so that she was no longer hungry, and she left extra food.
 
-[^ ]: **2:15** **Let her gather up the grain even among the bundles** (**L**: *Let her glean even among the bundles* | **S**: *Even if she gathers some grain near the bundles of grain that you have cut*) Boaz instructed his young male workers that Ruth was allowed to gather grain near the bundles the harvesters already gathered. In this context, the word **even** lets the workers know they are to do above and beyond what they usually do. People who were gleaning were generally forbidden from working close to the harvested grain for fear that they might steal from the already harvested grain. But Boaz instructs his workers to let Ruth glean close to the bundles of grain. Ruth went to the fields to gather leftover grain; now, she was able to gather grain from the bundles. God is a gracious God. God provides for his people more than they ask for. Translate **Let her gather up the grain even among the bundles** as a command for Boaz's young servants to allow Ruth to collect grain around the area where the bundles of grain are.
+[^80]: **2:15** **Let her gather up the grain even among the bundles** (**L**: *Let her glean even among the bundles* | **S**: *Even if she gathers some grain near the bundles of grain that you have cut*) Boaz instructed his young male workers that Ruth was allowed to gather grain near the bundles the harvesters already gathered. In this context, the word **even** lets the workers know they are to do above and beyond what they usually do. People who were gleaning were generally forbidden from working close to the harvested grain for fear that they might steal from the already harvested grain. But Boaz instructs his workers to let Ruth glean close to the bundles of grain. Ruth went to the fields to gather leftover grain; now, she was able to gather grain from the bundles. God is a gracious God. God provides for his people more than they ask for. Translate **Let her gather up the grain even among the bundles** as a command for Boaz's young servants to allow Ruth to collect grain around the area where the bundles of grain are.
 
-[^ ]: **2:15** **do not humiliate her** (**L**: *do not shame her* | **S**: *do not try to stop her*). Boaz forbade the young workers to shame Ruth for gathering grain near the bundles of grain. The term **humiliate** means to shame someone or to express disapproval of their actions. Boaz protected Ruth from shame and embarrassment. Translate **do not humiliate her** as a command not to treat Ruth in any way that would shame her and cause her to stop gathering grain.
+[^81]: **2:15** **do not humiliate her** (**L**: *do not shame her* | **S**: *do not try to stop her*). Boaz forbade the young workers to shame Ruth for gathering grain near the bundles of grain. The term **humiliate** means to shame someone or to express disapproval of their actions. Boaz protected Ruth from shame and embarrassment. Translate **do not humiliate her** as a command not to treat Ruth in any way that would shame her and cause her to stop gathering grain.
 
-[^ ]: **2:16** **Also pull out for her some ears of grain from the bundles, and leave them for her to gather up** (**L**: *Even be sure to pull some out from the bundles for her and leave it for her to glean* | **S**: *Even more than that, I want you to pull out some stalks of grain from the bundles and leave them on the ground for her to pick up*) Boaz provided for Ruth in a very generous way. Boaz did something beyond what was expected and told his workers to drop some of the grain that was already harvested for Ruth to glean. Boaz was kind to Ruth in a similar way that God is kind to his people. Like Boaz, God is generous and provides abundantly for his people. When God calls us to obey him, God has already prepared things in advance for us. Translate **Also pull out for her some ears of grain from the bundles, and leave them for her to gather up** as a command for Boaz's young men to take some stalks of grain out of the bundles and leave them for Ruth to gather.
+[^82]: **2:16** **Also pull out for her some ears of grain from the bundles, and leave them for her to gather up** (**L**: *Even be sure to pull some out from the bundles for her and leave it for her to glean* | **S**: *Even more than that, I want you to pull out some stalks of grain from the bundles and leave them on the ground for her to pick up*) Boaz provided for Ruth in a very generous way. Boaz did something beyond what was expected and told his workers to drop some of the grain that was already harvested for Ruth to glean. Boaz was kind to Ruth in a similar way that God is kind to his people. Like Boaz, God is generous and provides abundantly for his people. When God calls us to obey him, God has already prepared things in advance for us. Translate **Also pull out for her some ears of grain from the bundles, and leave them for her to gather up** as a command for Boaz's young men to take some stalks of grain out of the bundles and leave them for Ruth to gather.
 
-[^ ]: **2:16** **do not rebuke her** (**L**: *do not rebuke her* | **S**: *do not scold her*) Boaz forbade his workers from rebuking Ruth. The word **rebuke** means to criticize or scold someone for doing something that is considered disapproved. Translate **do not rebuke her** as a command not to say disapproving things to Ruth when she gathered grain.
+[^83]: **2:16** **do not rebuke her** (**L**: *do not rebuke her* | **S**: *do not scold her*) Boaz forbade his workers from rebuking Ruth. The word **rebuke** means to criticize or scold someone for doing something that is considered disapproved. Translate **do not rebuke her** as a command not to say disapproving things to Ruth when she gathered grain.
 
-17 So she gleaned in the field until evening.[^ ] Then she beat out the ears of grain that she had gathered,[^ ] and the grain was about an ephah of barley.[^ ] 18 She lifted it up and went into the city.[^ ] Then her mother-in-law saw what she had gathered. Ruth also brought out the roasted grain left from her meal and gave it to her. 19 Her mother-in-law said to her, "Where have you gleaned today? Where did you go to work? May the man who helped you be blessed."[^ ] Then Ruth told her mother-in-law about the man who owned the field where she had worked. She said, "The name of the man who owns the field where I worked today is Boaz."[^ ] 20 Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, "May he be blessed by Yahweh,[^ ] who has not left off his loyalty to the living and to the dead."[^ ] Naomi said to her, "That man is near of kin to us, one of our kinsman-redeemers."[^ ] 21 Ruth the Moabite woman said, "Indeed, he said to me, 'You should keep close to my young men until they have finished all my harvest.'"[^ ] 22 Naomi said to Ruth her daughter-in-law, "It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young female workers,[^ ] so that you do not come to harm in any other field."[^ ] 23 So she stayed close to Boaz's female workers[^ ] in order to glean to the end of the barley harvest and the wheat harvest.[^ ] She lived with her mother-in-law.
+17 So she gleaned in the field until evening.[^84] Then she beat out the ears of grain that she had gathered,[^85] and the grain was about an ephah of barley.[^86] 18 She lifted it up and went into the city.[^87] Then her mother-in-law saw what she had gathered. Ruth also brought out the roasted grain left from her meal and gave it to her. 19 Her mother-in-law said to her, "Where have you gleaned today? Where did you go to work? May the man who helped you be blessed."[^88] Then Ruth told her mother-in-law about the man who owned the field where she had worked. She said, "The name of the man who owns the field where I worked today is Boaz."[^89] 20 Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, "May he be blessed by Yahweh,[^90] who has not left off his loyalty to the living and to the dead."[^91] Naomi said to her, "That man is near of kin to us, one of our kinsman-redeemers."[^92] 21 Ruth the Moabite woman said, "Indeed, he said to me, 'You should keep close to my young men until they have finished all my harvest.'"[^93] 22 Naomi said to Ruth her daughter-in-law, "It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young female workers,[^94] so that you do not come to harm in any other field."[^95] 23 So she stayed close to Boaz's female workers[^96] in order to glean to the end of the barley harvest and the wheat harvest.[^97] She lived with her mother-in-law.
 
-[^ ]: **2:17** **she gleaned in the field until evening** (**L**: *she gleaned in the field until the evening* | **S**: *Ruth gathered grain in the field until evening*). Ruth gathered grain until nighttime. See note on 2:7. Again, this shows Ruth was a hard worker. God's people cannot work hard to earn God's grace. Like Boaz, God graciously gives his people good things they do not deserve. When people receive God's good gifts, God wants his people to work hard to follow his ways. Translate **she gleaned in the field until evening** to mean Ruth gathered grain until the end of the day.
+[^84]: **2:17** **she gleaned in the field until evening** (**L**: *she gleaned in the field until the evening* | **S**: *Ruth gathered grain in the field until evening*). Ruth gathered grain until nighttime. See note on 2:7. Again, this shows Ruth was a hard worker. God's people cannot work hard to earn God's grace. Like Boaz, God graciously gives his people good things they do not deserve. When people receive God's good gifts, God wants his people to work hard to follow his ways. Translate **she gleaned in the field until evening** to mean Ruth gathered grain until the end of the day.
 
-[^ ]: **2:17** **she beat out the ears of grain that she had gathered** (**L**: *she beat out what she had gleaned* | **S**: *she threshed the barley that she had gathered, to separate the kernels from the stalks*) Ruth beat the grain to remove the parts of the grain that people do not eat. Again, this was hard work. Translate **she beat out the ears of grain that she had gathered** to mean Ruth separated the edible part of the grain from the hull and stalk, which are thrown away. 
+[^85]: **2:17** **she beat out the ears of grain that she had gathered** (**L**: *she beat out what she had gleaned* | **S**: *she threshed the barley that she had gathered, to separate the kernels from the stalks*) Ruth beat the grain to remove the parts of the grain that people do not eat. Again, this was hard work. Translate **she beat out the ears of grain that she had gathered** to mean Ruth separated the edible part of the grain from the hull and stalk, which are thrown away. 
 
-[^ ]: **2:17** **the grain was about an ephah of barley** (**L**: *it was about an ephah of barley* | **S**: *The barley kernels were enough to fill a large basket*). Ruth collected a lot of barley. An **ephah** is a unit of measurement equal to about 22 liters (over 5 gallons). In this context, Ruth gathered about 22 liters of barley. For Ruth to collect this amount of barely in one day shows that Boaz was very gracious and Ruth was a diligent worker. Translate **the grain was about an ephah of barley** to mean Ruth gathered about 22 liters of barley, enough to fill a large basket.
+[^86]: **2:17** **the grain was about an ephah of barley** (**L**: *it was about an ephah of barley* | **S**: *The barley kernels were enough to fill a large basket*). Ruth collected a lot of barley. An **ephah** is a unit of measurement equal to about 22 liters (over 5 gallons). In this context, Ruth gathered about 22 liters of barley. For Ruth to collect this amount of barely in one day shows that Boaz was very gracious and Ruth was a diligent worker. Translate **the grain was about an ephah of barley** to mean Ruth gathered about 22 liters of barley, enough to fill a large basket.
 
-[^ ]: **2:18** **She lifted it up and went into the city** (**L**: *she lifted it up and went into the city* | **S**: *She carried it back to town*). Ruth carried the barley back to her home in Bethlehem. It was a heavy basket. Again, this shows Ruth's willingness to work hard. Translate **She lifted it up and went into the city** to mean Ruth carried a basket of barley from the fields where she gleaned back to the town of Bethlehem where she and Naomi lived.
+[^87]: **2:18** **She lifted it up and went into the city** (**L**: *she lifted it up and went into the city* | **S**: *She carried it back to town*). Ruth carried the barley back to her home in Bethlehem. It was a heavy basket. Again, this shows Ruth's willingness to work hard. Translate **She lifted it up and went into the city** to mean Ruth carried a basket of barley from the fields where she gleaned back to the town of Bethlehem where she and Naomi lived.
 
-[^ ]: **2:19** **May the man who helped you be blessed** (**L**: *May the one who noticed you be blessed* | **S**: *I pray that God will bless the man who was so kind to you.*) Naomi asked God to cause good things to the person who helped Ruth. Naomi asked God to reward Boaz for his kindness to Ruth and herself. Translate **May the man who helped you be blessed** as a request for God to cause good things to happen to the person who showed kindness to Ruth in allowing her to gather so much grain.
+[^88]: **2:19** **May the man who helped you be blessed** (**L**: *May the one who noticed you be blessed* | **S**: *I pray that God will bless the man who was so kind to you.*) Naomi asked God to cause good things to the person who helped Ruth. Naomi asked God to reward Boaz for his kindness to Ruth and herself. Translate **May the man who helped you be blessed** as a request for God to cause good things to happen to the person who showed kindness to Ruth in allowing her to gather so much grain.
 
-[^ ]: **2:19** **The name of the man who owns the field where I worked today is Boaz** See note on 2:19.
+[^89]: **2:19** **The name of the man who owns the field where I worked today is Boaz** See note on 2:19.
 
-[^ ]: **2:20** **May he be blessed by Yahweh** (**L**: *May he be blessed by Yahweh* | **S**: *May Yahweh bless him*) See note on 2:19.
+[^90]: **2:20** **May he be blessed by Yahweh** (**L**: *May he be blessed by Yahweh* | **S**: *May Yahweh bless him*) See note on 2:19.
 
-[^ ]: **2:20** **who has not left off his loyalty to the living and to the dead** (**L**: *who has not forsaken his covenant faithfulness both with the living and with the dead* | **S**: *Yahweh has not stopped acting faithfully toward us who are still living, and to our husbands who have died*) Naomi said that God did not stop being faithful to her and her family. In this context, the phrase **left off** means to forsake or abandon. For the term **loyalty**, see note on 1:8. God's people trust that God will always be faithful and loyal. Translate **who has not left off his loyalty to the living and to the dead** to mean God continued to be loyal and faithful to Naomi and Ruth, who were still living, and to their husbands, who had already died.
+[^91]: **2:20** **who has not left off his loyalty to the living and to the dead** (**L**: *who has not forsaken his covenant faithfulness both with the living and with the dead* | **S**: *Yahweh has not stopped acting faithfully toward us who are still living, and to our husbands who have died*) Naomi said that God did not stop being faithful to her and her family. In this context, the phrase **left off** means to forsake or abandon. For the term **loyalty**, see note on 1:8. God's people trust that God will always be faithful and loyal. Translate **who has not left off his loyalty to the living and to the dead** to mean God continued to be loyal and faithful to Naomi and Ruth, who were still living, and to their husbands, who had already died.
 
-[^ ]: **2:20** **That man is near of kin to us, one of our kinsman-redeemers** (**L**: *That man is closely related to us. He is one of our kinsman-redeemers.* | **S**: *That man is a close relative of Elimelek; in fact, he is one of those responsible for taking care of our family.* ) Naomi told Ruth that Boaz was a relative of the family and one of the people who could be a kinsman-redeemer. In this context, the term **kin** refers to a close relative to the family. A **kinsman-redeemer** was a close male relative responsible for taking care of any widows in the family. If one of his brothers died having had no children, he had the responsibility to marry the widow, if she was still of child-bearing age, to raise a child for his brother. He would also reacquire the land his relatives had lost due to poverty and redeem family members who had sold themselves into slavery. God provided Boaz to help Naomi and Ruth out of their very difficult circumstances. Jesus is the ultimate redeemer who rescues sinful people from the slavery of sin. Translate **That man is near of kin to us, one of our kinsman-redeemers**, to mean Boaz was a close relative responsible for caring for Naomi and Ruth.
+[^92]: **2:20** **That man is near of kin to us, one of our kinsman-redeemers** (**L**: *That man is closely related to us. He is one of our kinsman-redeemers.* | **S**: *That man is a close relative of Elimelek; in fact, he is one of those responsible for taking care of our family.* ) Naomi told Ruth that Boaz was a relative of the family and one of the people who could be a kinsman-redeemer. In this context, the term **kin** refers to a close relative to the family. A **kinsman-redeemer** was a close male relative responsible for taking care of any widows in the family. If one of his brothers died having had no children, he had the responsibility to marry the widow, if she was still of child-bearing age, to raise a child for his brother. He would also reacquire the land his relatives had lost due to poverty and redeem family members who had sold themselves into slavery. God provided Boaz to help Naomi and Ruth out of their very difficult circumstances. Jesus is the ultimate redeemer who rescues sinful people from the slavery of sin. Translate **That man is near of kin to us, one of our kinsman-redeemers**, to mean Boaz was a close relative responsible for caring for Naomi and Ruth.
 
-[^ ]: **2:21** **You should keep close to my young men until they have finished all my harvest** (**L**: *You should keep close by the servants who belong to me until the time when they have finished all of the harvest that belongs to me.* | **S**: *Stay with my workers until they are done bringing in all my grain from the field*) Boaz told Ruth to remain close to Boaz's workers until the harvest was complete. The term **harvest** refers to gathering ripe fruits, vegetables, seeds, or grains from the plants on which they were growing. The harvest time typically happens at the end of a growing season. In biblical times, reapers usually harvested crops by hand, either pulling up the plants or cutting them with a sharp cutting tool. By instructing Ruth to stay close to his workers, Boaz was ensuring Ruth and Naomi of food for an extended period of time. Translate **You should keep close to my young men until they have finished all my harvest** as an instruction for Ruth to gather grain near Boaz's work until the time of gathering crops is complete.
+[^93]: **2:21** **You should keep close to my young men until they have finished all my harvest** (**L**: *You should keep close by the servants who belong to me until the time when they have finished all of the harvest that belongs to me.* | **S**: *Stay with my workers until they are done bringing in all my grain from the field*) Boaz told Ruth to remain close to Boaz's workers until the harvest was complete. The term **harvest** refers to gathering ripe fruits, vegetables, seeds, or grains from the plants on which they were growing. The harvest time typically happens at the end of a growing season. In biblical times, reapers usually harvested crops by hand, either pulling up the plants or cutting them with a sharp cutting tool. By instructing Ruth to stay close to his workers, Boaz was ensuring Ruth and Naomi of food for an extended period of time. Translate **You should keep close to my young men until they have finished all my harvest** as an instruction for Ruth to gather grain near Boaz's work until the time of gathering crops is complete.
 
-[^ ]: **2:22** **go out with his young female workers**. See note on 2:8.
+[^94]: **2:22** **go out with his young female workers**. See note on 2:8.
 
-[^ ]: **2:22** **so that you do not come to harm in any other field** (**L**: *It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young female workers* | **S**: *it will be good for you to go to his field with his servant girls*) Naomi did not want Ruth to be harmed. She told her to remain with Boaz's young women. The word **harm** means to cause physical injury to another person. Like Boaz provided protection for Ruth, God provides protection for his people. Translate **so that you do not come to harm in any other field** to mean the reason Naomi wanted Ruth to stay close to Boaz's young women was to prevent her from being harmed.
+[^95]: **2:22** **so that you do not come to harm in any other field** (**L**: *It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young female workers* | **S**: *it will be good for you to go to his field with his servant girls*) Naomi did not want Ruth to be harmed. She told her to remain with Boaz's young women. The word **harm** means to cause physical injury to another person. Like Boaz provided protection for Ruth, God provides protection for his people. Translate **so that you do not come to harm in any other field** to mean the reason Naomi wanted Ruth to stay close to Boaz's young women was to prevent her from being harmed.
 
-[^ ]: **2:23** **she stayed close to Boaz's female workers**. See note on 2:8.
+[^96]: **2:23** **she stayed close to Boaz's female workers**. See note on 2:8.
 
-[^ ]: **2:23** **in order to glean to the end of the barley harvest and the wheat harvest** (**L**: *to glean until the harvest of barley and the harvest of wheat were finished* | **S**: *She gathered heads of grain until the workers had finished harvesting both the barley and the wheat*) See note on 2:21.
+[^97]: **2:23** **in order to glean to the end of the barley harvest and the wheat harvest** (**L**: *to glean until the harvest of barley and the harvest of wheat were finished* | **S**: *She gathered heads of grain until the workers had finished harvesting both the barley and the wheat*) See note on 2:21.
 
-3:1 Naomi, her mother-in-law, said to her, "My daughter, should I not seek a place for you to rest,[^ ] so that things may go well for you?[^ ] 2 Now Boaz, the man whose young female workers you have been with, is he not our kinsman?[^ ] Look, he will be winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor.[^ ] 3 Therefore, wash yourself, anoint yourself,[^ ] put on your best clothes, and go down to the threshing floor. But do not make yourself known to the man until he finishes eating and drinking.[^ ] 4 But when he lies down, take notice of the place where he lies down[^ ] so that later you can go to him, uncover his feet, and lie down there.[^ ] Then he will tell you what to do."[^ ] 5 Ruth said to Naomi, "I will do everything you say."[^ ]
+3:1 Naomi, her mother-in-law, said to her, "My daughter, should I not seek a place for you to rest,[^98] so that things may go well for you?[^99] 2 Now Boaz, the man whose young female workers you have been with, is he not our kinsman?[^100] Look, he will be winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor.[^101] 3 Therefore, wash yourself, anoint yourself,[^102] put on your best clothes, and go down to the threshing floor. But do not make yourself known to the man until he finishes eating and drinking.[^103] 4 But when he lies down, take notice of the place where he lies down[^104] so that later you can go to him, uncover his feet, and lie down there.[^105] Then he will tell you what to do."[^106] 5 Ruth said to Naomi, "I will do everything you say."[^107]
 
-[^ ]: **3:1** **My daughter, should I not seek a place for you to rest** (**L**: *should I not seek a resting place for you* | **S**: *I want to arrange for you to have a secure home*) Naomi wanted Ruth to find relief from her trouble. For **daughter**, see notes on 1:11 and 2:2. In this context, the term **rest** refers to a place where a person has ease and freedom from hardship. This does not mean a place to rest temporarily from being tired. It means a place of permanent comfort and security in a good home with a husband. See also note on 1:9. Naomi used this question to express her desire and plan to help Ruth find rest. More than Naomi, God is able to give his people permanent relief from hardship and a place of full security. Translate **My daughter, should I not seek a place for you to rest** as a question that expresses Naomi's desire to help Ruth find a place where she no longer has to experience the difficult and painful circumstances she was experiencing.
+[^98]: **3:1** **My daughter, should I not seek a place for you to rest** (**L**: *should I not seek a resting place for you* | **S**: *I want to arrange for you to have a secure home*) Naomi wanted Ruth to find relief from her trouble. For **daughter**, see notes on 1:11 and 2:2. In this context, the term **rest** refers to a place where a person has ease and freedom from hardship. This does not mean a place to rest temporarily from being tired. It means a place of permanent comfort and security in a good home with a husband. See also note on 1:9. Naomi used this question to express her desire and plan to help Ruth find rest. More than Naomi, God is able to give his people permanent relief from hardship and a place of full security. Translate **My daughter, should I not seek a place for you to rest** as a question that expresses Naomi's desire to help Ruth find a place where she no longer has to experience the difficult and painful circumstances she was experiencing.
 
-[^ ]: **3:1** **so that things may go well for you** (**L**: *that will be good for you* | **S**: *with a good husband*). The reason Naomi wanted Ruth to find a secure place of rest was Naomi wanted good things to happen to Ruth. The phrase **go well** means for good and beneficial things to happen to someone. More than Naomi, God wants to provide for his people and bless them with good things. Translate **so that things may go well for you** to mean that Naomi wanted Ruth to find security in marrying a husband so that she would be taken care of and could live without worry.
+[^99]: **3:1** **so that things may go well for you** (**L**: *that will be good for you* | **S**: *with a good husband*). The reason Naomi wanted Ruth to find a secure place of rest was Naomi wanted good things to happen to Ruth. The phrase **go well** means for good and beneficial things to happen to someone. More than Naomi, God wants to provide for his people and bless them with good things. Translate **so that things may go well for you** to mean that Naomi wanted Ruth to find security in marrying a husband so that she would be taken care of and could live without worry.
 
-[^ ]: **3:2** **is he not our kinsman** (**L**: *is not Boaz our relative* | **S**: *he is a close relative of ours*) Naomi and Ruth knew that Boaz was their relative. Naomi used this question to remind Ruth of something she had already told her (see 2:20), to introduce the reason for what she was about to say. The word **kinsman** refers to a member of a clan or family. It is a different Hebrew word than the term **kin** in 2:20, but they mean similar things. God orders the details of our lives and relationships with others to accomplish his plans and purposes in the world. God is an active God who is involved in the details of our lives. God wants his people to trust him to work in the circumstances of our lives. Translate **is he not our kinsman** as a question that reminds Ruth about a fact they both already know: Boaz is one of their relatives. 
+[^100]: **3:2** **is he not our kinsman** (**L**: *is not Boaz our relative* | **S**: *he is a close relative of ours*) Naomi and Ruth knew that Boaz was their relative. Naomi used this question to remind Ruth of something she had already told her (see 2:20), to introduce the reason for what she was about to say. The word **kinsman** refers to a member of a clan or family. It is a different Hebrew word than the term **kin** in 2:20, but they mean similar things. God orders the details of our lives and relationships with others to accomplish his plans and purposes in the world. God is an active God who is involved in the details of our lives. God wants his people to trust him to work in the circumstances of our lives. Translate **is he not our kinsman** as a question that reminds Ruth about a fact they both already know: Boaz is one of their relatives. 
 
-[^ ]: **3:2** **Look, he will be winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor** (**L**: *Look, he will be winnowing barley at the threshing floor tonight.* | **S**: *So listen carefully. Tonight he will be at the place where they thresh the barley. He will be separating the grain from the chaff.*) Naomi told Ruth to pay attention to the fact that Boaz would separate grain on the threshing floor. Naomi used the word **Look** to get Ruth's attention so she would focus on the very important information she was about to tell her. The word **winnowing** describes the act of separating grain from the unwanted chaff by tossing both the grain and chaff into the air, allowing the wind to blow the chaff away. The term **threshing floor** refers to a large flat rock or an area of packed-down dirt, giving a hard, level surface to crush the grain stalks and remove the grain. God wants his people to trust God's active work in their lives. God also wants his people to pay attention to how God is ordering their life details so that they can see opportunities to participate in God's work. Translate **Look, he will be winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor**, as a strong statement for Ruth to pay attention to the important fact that that night Boaz would be tossing barley into the air at the place people separating grain from the chaff.
+[^101]: **3:2** **Look, he will be winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor** (**L**: *Look, he will be winnowing barley at the threshing floor tonight.* | **S**: *So listen carefully. Tonight he will be at the place where they thresh the barley. He will be separating the grain from the chaff.*) Naomi told Ruth to pay attention to the fact that Boaz would separate grain on the threshing floor. Naomi used the word **Look** to get Ruth's attention so she would focus on the very important information she was about to tell her. The word **winnowing** describes the act of separating grain from the unwanted chaff by tossing both the grain and chaff into the air, allowing the wind to blow the chaff away. The term **threshing floor** refers to a large flat rock or an area of packed-down dirt, giving a hard, level surface to crush the grain stalks and remove the grain. God wants his people to trust God's active work in their lives. God also wants his people to pay attention to how God is ordering their life details so that they can see opportunities to participate in God's work. Translate **Look, he will be winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor**, as a strong statement for Ruth to pay attention to the important fact that that night Boaz would be tossing barley into the air at the place people separating grain from the chaff.
 
-[^ ]: **3:3** **wash yourself, anoint yourself** (**L**: *wash yourself, and anoint yourself* | **S**: *Bathe yourself and put on some perfume*). Naomi instructed Ruth to bathe and put on perfume. The word **wash** means removing dirt or stains from someone or something using water. The word **anoint** means to rub or pour oil on a person or object. Sometimes the oil was mixed with spices, giving it a sweet, perfumed smell. This is probably a reference to rubbing sweet-smelling oil on oneself as a kind of perfume. Naomi wanted Ruth to look and smell her best when she met Boaz. When we start to learn how God orders the details of our lives, God wants his people to actively participate in his plan. Translate **wash yourself, anoint yourself** as a command for Ruth to bathe herself and put sweet-smelling oil on herself.
+[^102]: **3:3** **wash yourself, anoint yourself** (**L**: *wash yourself, and anoint yourself* | **S**: *Bathe yourself and put on some perfume*). Naomi instructed Ruth to bathe and put on perfume. The word **wash** means removing dirt or stains from someone or something using water. The word **anoint** means to rub or pour oil on a person or object. Sometimes the oil was mixed with spices, giving it a sweet, perfumed smell. This is probably a reference to rubbing sweet-smelling oil on oneself as a kind of perfume. Naomi wanted Ruth to look and smell her best when she met Boaz. When we start to learn how God orders the details of our lives, God wants his people to actively participate in his plan. Translate **wash yourself, anoint yourself** as a command for Ruth to bathe herself and put sweet-smelling oil on herself.
 
-[^ ]: **3:3** **do not make yourself known to the man until he finishes eating and drinking** (**L**: *Do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking* | **S**: *do not let him know that you are there until he is finished eating and drinking*) Naomi instructed Ruth to let Boaz finishing eating and drinking before she let him know that she was there. Naomi wanted Ruth to be quiet so that Boaz would not hear her. Naomi also wanted Ruth to be hidden so that Boaz would not see her. Naomi did not want Ruth to be impatient or act at the wrong time. When God's people participate in God's plans, it requires patience and self-control. Translate **do not make yourself known to the man until he finishes eating and drinking** as an instruction for Ruth not to let Boaz notice that Ruth was there until Boaz finished eating and drinking.
+[^103]: **3:3** **do not make yourself known to the man until he finishes eating and drinking** (**L**: *Do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking* | **S**: *do not let him know that you are there until he is finished eating and drinking*) Naomi instructed Ruth to let Boaz finishing eating and drinking before she let him know that she was there. Naomi wanted Ruth to be quiet so that Boaz would not hear her. Naomi also wanted Ruth to be hidden so that Boaz would not see her. Naomi did not want Ruth to be impatient or act at the wrong time. When God's people participate in God's plans, it requires patience and self-control. Translate **do not make yourself known to the man until he finishes eating and drinking** as an instruction for Ruth not to let Boaz notice that Ruth was there until Boaz finished eating and drinking.
 
-[^ ]: **3:4** Take notice of the place where he lies down** (**L**: *you know the exact place where he is lying* | **S**: *pay attention to where he lies down*) Naomi instructed Ruth to pay attention to the place Boaz lies down to sleep. In this context, the word **take notice** means to come to know something by observation. When God's people participate in God's plans, God's people need to be aware and alert. Translate **take notice of the place where he lies down** as a command for Ruth to observe the specific place where Boaz lies down to sleep.
+[^104]: **3:4** Take notice of the place where he lies down** (**L**: *you know the exact place where he is lying* | **S**: *pay attention to where he lies down*) Naomi instructed Ruth to pay attention to the place Boaz lies down to sleep. In this context, the word **take notice** means to come to know something by observation. When God's people participate in God's plans, God's people need to be aware and alert. Translate **take notice of the place where he lies down** as a command for Ruth to observe the specific place where Boaz lies down to sleep.
 
-[^ ]: **3:4** **so that later you can go to him, uncover his feet, and lie down there** (**L**: *go and uncover his feet, and lie down* | **S**: *go over to him, uncover his feet, and lie down there*) Naomi wanted Ruth to know where Boaz was sleeping so she could later on uncover his feet and lie down at that spot. The phrase **uncover his feet** means to remove the cloak or blanket covering his feet (or legs). Perhaps this action by a woman could be interpreted as a marriage proposal. The instruction **lie down** meant Ruth lay down on the ground near Boaz's feet. Naomi did not tell Ruth to do anything sexually immoral. Ruth and Boaz did not have sex. Naomi wanted Ruth to let Boaz know she was available for marriage. God wants his people to live pure lives. This means God's people will act in ways that are decisive but also follow God's commands. Translate **so that later you can go to him, uncover his feet, and lie down there** to mean the reason Naomi wanted Ruth to know the exact place Boaz slept was so she could go to him later that evening, remove the blanket from his feet, and lie down at that spot.
+[^105]: **3:4** **so that later you can go to him, uncover his feet, and lie down there** (**L**: *go and uncover his feet, and lie down* | **S**: *go over to him, uncover his feet, and lie down there*) Naomi wanted Ruth to know where Boaz was sleeping so she could later on uncover his feet and lie down at that spot. The phrase **uncover his feet** means to remove the cloak or blanket covering his feet (or legs). Perhaps this action by a woman could be interpreted as a marriage proposal. The instruction **lie down** meant Ruth lay down on the ground near Boaz's feet. Naomi did not tell Ruth to do anything sexually immoral. Ruth and Boaz did not have sex. Naomi wanted Ruth to let Boaz know she was available for marriage. God wants his people to live pure lives. This means God's people will act in ways that are decisive but also follow God's commands. Translate **so that later you can go to him, uncover his feet, and lie down there** to mean the reason Naomi wanted Ruth to know the exact place Boaz slept was so she could go to him later that evening, remove the blanket from his feet, and lie down at that spot.
 
-[^ ]: **3:4** **Then he will tell you what to do** (**L**: *Then he, himself, will tell you what you should do* | **S**: *When he wakes up, he will tell you what to do*) Naomi told Ruth that Boaz would give her instructions after he woke up. The specific custom of that time is unclear, but Naomi appears to believe that Boaz will understand Ruth’s action as a marriage proposal. Boaz will then either accept or reject her offer. This was a risky act. When God's people follow God's commands, it often involves risk. Translate **Then he will tell you what to do** to mean Boaz would tell Ruth what to do when he wakes up.
+[^106]: **3:4** **Then he will tell you what to do** (**L**: *Then he, himself, will tell you what you should do* | **S**: *When he wakes up, he will tell you what to do*) Naomi told Ruth that Boaz would give her instructions after he woke up. The specific custom of that time is unclear, but Naomi appears to believe that Boaz will understand Ruth’s action as a marriage proposal. Boaz will then either accept or reject her offer. This was a risky act. When God's people follow God's commands, it often involves risk. Translate **Then he will tell you what to do** to mean Boaz would tell Ruth what to do when he wakes up.
 
-[^ ]: **3:5** **I will do everything you say** (**L**: *Everything that you say, I will do* | **S**: *I will do everything that you have told me to do*) Ruth told Naomi that she would follow Naomi's instructions. Ruth is an example of godly obedience. She showed respect to Naomi and did what Naomi instructed her to do. God wants his people to obey his commands. When people obey God's commands, this is a sign of trust and respect. Translate **I will do everything you say** to mean Ruth told Naomi that she would obey all of Naomi's instructions. 
+[^107]: **3:5** **I will do everything you say** (**L**: *Everything that you say, I will do* | **S**: *I will do everything that you have told me to do*) Ruth told Naomi that she would follow Naomi's instructions. Ruth is an example of godly obedience. She showed respect to Naomi and did what Naomi instructed her to do. God wants his people to obey his commands. When people obey God's commands, this is a sign of trust and respect. Translate **I will do everything you say** to mean Ruth told Naomi that she would obey all of Naomi's instructions. 
 
-6 So she went down to the threshing floor, and she followed the instructions her mother-in-law had given her.[^ ] 7 When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry,[^ ] he went to lie down at the end of the pile of grain. Then she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down.[^ ] 8 It came about at midnight that the man was startled.[^ ] He turned over, and right there a woman was lying at his feet![^ ] 9 He said, "Who are you?" She answered, "I am Ruth, your female servant.[^ ] Spread your cloak over your female servant,[^ ] for you are a kinsman-redeemer."[^ ] 10 Boaz said, "My daughter, may you be blessed by Yahweh.[^ ] You have showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning,[^ ] because you have not gone after any of the young men,[^ ] whether poor or rich. 11 Now, my daughter, do not be afraid![^ ] I will do for you all that you say,[^ ] because all the city of my people knows that you are a worthy woman.[^ ] 12 It is true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a kinsman-redeemer nearer than I.[^ ] 13 Stay here tonight, and in the morning, if he will redeem you as a kinsman-redeemer, good, let him do it.[^ ] But if he will not do the duty of a kinsman for you, then I will do it,[^] by the life of Yahweh.[^ ] Lie down until the morning."
+6 So she went down to the threshing floor, and she followed the instructions her mother-in-law had given her.[^108] 7 When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry,[^109] he went to lie down at the end of the pile of grain. Then she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down.[^110] 8 It came about at midnight that the man was startled.[^111] He turned over, and right there a woman was lying at his feet![^112] 9 He said, "Who are you?" She answered, "I am Ruth, your female servant.[^113] Spread your cloak over your female servant,[^114] for you are a kinsman-redeemer."[^115] 10 Boaz said, "My daughter, may you be blessed by Yahweh.[^116] You have showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning,[^117] because you have not gone after any of the young men,[^118] whether poor or rich. 11 Now, my daughter, do not be afraid![^119] I will do for you all that you say,[^120] because all the city of my people knows that you are a worthy woman.[^121] 12 It is true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a kinsman-redeemer nearer than I.[^122] 13 Stay here tonight, and in the morning, if he will redeem you as a kinsman-redeemer, good, let him do it.[^123] But if he will not do the duty of a kinsman for you, then I will do it,[^124] by the life of Yahweh.[^125] Lie down until the morning."
 
-[^ ]: *3:6* **she followed the instructions her mother-in-law had given her** (**L**: *did according to everything that her mother-in-law had instructed her* | **S**: *she did everything that her mother-in-law had told her to do*). Ruth did the things Naomi told her to do. Ruth models a life of faithful, respectful, and humble obedience. God wants his people to follow God's instructions. Translate **she followed the instructions her mother-in-law had given her** to mean Ruth obeyed Naomi and did the things Naomi commanded her to do.
+[^108]: *3:6* **she followed the instructions her mother-in-law had given her** (**L**: *did according to everything that her mother-in-law had instructed her* | **S**: *she did everything that her mother-in-law had told her to do*). Ruth did the things Naomi told her to do. Ruth models a life of faithful, respectful, and humble obedience. God wants his people to follow God's instructions. Translate **she followed the instructions her mother-in-law had given her** to mean Ruth obeyed Naomi and did the things Naomi commanded her to do.
 
-[^ ]: **3:7** **When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry** (**L**: *Boaz ate and drank, and his heart was good* | **S**: *When Boaz finished eating and drinking, he was feeling good*) Boaz was feeling happy after he ate his meal and drank. In this context, **heart** stands for emotions or feelings. Boaz was happy and feeling good. This does not imply that Boaz was drunk. Translate **When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry** to mean after the time Boaz ate, drank, and was in a good mood.
+[^109]: **3:7** **When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry** (**L**: *Boaz ate and drank, and his heart was good* | **S**: *When Boaz finished eating and drinking, he was feeling good*) Boaz was feeling happy after he ate his meal and drank. In this context, **heart** stands for emotions or feelings. Boaz was happy and feeling good. This does not imply that Boaz was drunk. Translate **When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry** to mean after the time Boaz ate, drank, and was in a good mood.
 
-[^ ]: **3:7** **Then she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down** (**L**: *she came secretly, and uncovered his feet, and lay down* | **S**: *Then Ruth stealthily approached him. She took the covering off his feet and lay down there.*) Ruth quietly came to the place Boaz separated the grain. Then, she removed Boaz's blanket and lay down near his feet as Naomi instructed. In this context, the word **softly** means Ruth came in secrete so that Boaz could not see or hear her. For **uncovered his feet**, see note on 3:4. As Ruth followed Naomi's specific instructions, God wants his people to learn the details of God's commands and to follow what God specifically instructs. Translate **Then she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down** to mean at that time, Ruth quietly came to where Boaz was sleeping, removed the blanket/covering from his feet, and lay down at his feet. 
+[^110]: **3:7** **Then she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down** (**L**: *she came secretly, and uncovered his feet, and lay down* | **S**: *Then Ruth stealthily approached him. She took the covering off his feet and lay down there.*) Ruth quietly came to the place Boaz separated the grain. Then, she removed Boaz's blanket and lay down near his feet as Naomi instructed. In this context, the word **softly** means Ruth came in secrete so that Boaz could not see or hear her. For **uncovered his feet**, see note on 3:4. As Ruth followed Naomi's specific instructions, God wants his people to learn the details of God's commands and to follow what God specifically instructs. Translate **Then she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down** to mean at that time, Ruth quietly came to where Boaz was sleeping, removed the blanket/covering from his feet, and lay down at his feet. 
 
-[^ ]: **3:8** **It came about at midnight that the man was startled** (**L**: *it happened in the middle of the night that the man was startled* | **S**: *In the middle of the night, he woke up suddenly*). At midnight, Boaz suddenly woke up from his sleep. The phrase **It came about** describes a new event that takes place. The word **startled** describes when a person is shocked or surprised by something they did not expect. It is not clear what startled Boaz. Perhaps he suddenly felt the cold air on his feet or legs. Translate **It came about at midnight that the man was startled** to mean Boaz suddenly woke from his sleep at midnight.
+[^111]: **3:8** **It came about at midnight that the man was startled** (**L**: *it happened in the middle of the night that the man was startled* | **S**: *In the middle of the night, he woke up suddenly*). At midnight, Boaz suddenly woke up from his sleep. The phrase **It came about** describes a new event that takes place. The word **startled** describes when a person is shocked or surprised by something they did not expect. It is not clear what startled Boaz. Perhaps he suddenly felt the cold air on his feet or legs. Translate **It came about at midnight that the man was startled** to mean Boaz suddenly woke from his sleep at midnight.
 
-[^ ]: **3:8** **right there a woman was lying at his feet!** (**L**: *behold, a woman was lying at his feet!* | **S**: *he realized that a woman was lying at his feet*) Boaz did not expect a woman to be lying at this feet. This was a surprise. At this point, it appears that Boaz did not recognize that the woman was Ruth. When we follow God's commands, we should prepare for unexpected things that God has arranged to happen. Translate **right there a woman was lying at his feet!** as a strong statement that expresses surprise that a woman was lying at Boaz's feet.
+[^112]: **3:8** **right there a woman was lying at his feet!** (**L**: *behold, a woman was lying at his feet!* | **S**: *he realized that a woman was lying at his feet*) Boaz did not expect a woman to be lying at this feet. This was a surprise. At this point, it appears that Boaz did not recognize that the woman was Ruth. When we follow God's commands, we should prepare for unexpected things that God has arranged to happen. Translate **right there a woman was lying at his feet!** as a strong statement that expresses surprise that a woman was lying at Boaz's feet.
 
-[^ ]: **3:9** **I am Ruth, your female servant** (**L**: *I am Ruth, your female servant* | **S**: *I am your servant, Ruth*) Ruth told Boaz her name and that she was his servant. The word **female servant** describes a female who performs duties and responsibilities for someone who has responsibility and authority over her. Ruth was not one of Boaz’s servants, but she referred to herself as Boaz’s servant as a polite way to express respect to Boaz. This term for female servant differs from the term in 2:13. Ruth's humble and respectful attitude is a model for believers to follow. God's people are God's servants, called to faithfully live in a way that pleases God. Translate **I am Ruth, your female servant** to mean Ruth told Boaz her name and showed him respect by calling her Boaz's servant.
+[^113]: **3:9** **I am Ruth, your female servant** (**L**: *I am Ruth, your female servant* | **S**: *I am your servant, Ruth*) Ruth told Boaz her name and that she was his servant. The word **female servant** describes a female who performs duties and responsibilities for someone who has responsibility and authority over her. Ruth was not one of Boaz’s servants, but she referred to herself as Boaz’s servant as a polite way to express respect to Boaz. This term for female servant differs from the term in 2:13. Ruth's humble and respectful attitude is a model for believers to follow. God's people are God's servants, called to faithfully live in a way that pleases God. Translate **I am Ruth, your female servant** to mean Ruth told Boaz her name and showed him respect by calling her Boaz's servant.
 
-[^ ]: **3:9** **Spread your cloak over your female servant** (**L**: *you can spread the edge of your cloak over your female servant* | **S**: *please make me secure by marrying me*) Ruth asked Boaz to marry her. The phrase **Spread your cloak** was a way of describing marriage. The security of marriage is compared to a man covering a woman with a cloak for protection and intimacy. Even more than Boaz, God provides protection and safety for his people. Translate **Spread your cloak over your female servant** as a polite request for Boaz to marry Ruth as a man would cover a woman with a cloak to keep her safe and share a life together as husband and wife.
+[^114]: **3:9** **Spread your cloak over your female servant** (**L**: *you can spread the edge of your cloak over your female servant* | **S**: *please make me secure by marrying me*) Ruth asked Boaz to marry her. The phrase **Spread your cloak** was a way of describing marriage. The security of marriage is compared to a man covering a woman with a cloak for protection and intimacy. Even more than Boaz, God provides protection and safety for his people. Translate **Spread your cloak over your female servant** as a polite request for Boaz to marry Ruth as a man would cover a woman with a cloak to keep her safe and share a life together as husband and wife.
 
-[^ ]: **3:9** **for you are a kinsman-redeemer**, see note on 2:20.
+[^115]: **3:9** **for you are a kinsman-redeemer**, see note on 2:20.
 
-[^ ]: **3:10** **My daughter, may you be blessed by Yahweh**. For **daughter**, see note on 2:8. For **may you be blessed by Yahweh**, see note on 2:20.
+[^116]: **3:10** **My daughter, may you be blessed by Yahweh**. For **daughter**, see note on 2:8. For **may you be blessed by Yahweh**, see note on 2:20.
 
-[^ ]: **3:10** **You have showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning** (**L**: *You have made your covenant faithfulness better at the end than at the beginning* | **S**: *Previously, you were very faithful to your mother-in-law, but you are acting even more faithfully now*) Boaz told Ruth that she acted with great faithfulness and loyalty by asking to marry Boaz. For **kindness**, see note on 1:8. This refers to Ruth asking Boaz to marry her. Boaz sees this as Ruth showing unselfish kindness and family loyalty to Naomi. By marrying Naomi’s relative, Ruth would also provide for Naomi, honor Naomi’s son, and continue Naomi’s family line. God wants his people to grow and increase in their loyalty and commitment to him. Translate **You have showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning** to mean Ruth was demonstrating even more loving kindness in asking to marry Boaz than Ruth did for Naomi.
+[^117]: **3:10** **You have showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning** (**L**: *You have made your covenant faithfulness better at the end than at the beginning* | **S**: *Previously, you were very faithful to your mother-in-law, but you are acting even more faithfully now*) Boaz told Ruth that she acted with great faithfulness and loyalty by asking to marry Boaz. For **kindness**, see note on 1:8. This refers to Ruth asking Boaz to marry her. Boaz sees this as Ruth showing unselfish kindness and family loyalty to Naomi. By marrying Naomi’s relative, Ruth would also provide for Naomi, honor Naomi’s son, and continue Naomi’s family line. God wants his people to grow and increase in their loyalty and commitment to him. Translate **You have showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning** to mean Ruth was demonstrating even more loving kindness in asking to marry Boaz than Ruth did for Naomi.
 
-[^ ]: **3:10** **because you have not gone after any of the young men** (**L**: *by not going after the young men* | **S**: *by not chasing after a young man to marry*). Boaz said Ruth's loyalty was very great because she chose to marry Boaz rather than go after a young husband. In this context, the phrase **gone after** describes the action of looking for a husband to marry. If Ruth had married a younger husband who was not a kinsman-redeemer, it would not have provided the care and security for Naomi. Ruth could have ignored Naomi’s need and looked for a young and handsome husband for herself outside of Naomi’s relatives, but she did not. Ruth models selfless and sacrificial behavior. God wants his people to act selflessly to care for the needs of others around us. Translate **because you have not gone after any of the young men** to mean that Boaz thought Ruth's kindness was great because she decided to marry Boaz and not look for a younger husband.
+[^118]: **3:10** **because you have not gone after any of the young men** (**L**: *by not going after the young men* | **S**: *by not chasing after a young man to marry*). Boaz said Ruth's loyalty was very great because she chose to marry Boaz rather than go after a young husband. In this context, the phrase **gone after** describes the action of looking for a husband to marry. If Ruth had married a younger husband who was not a kinsman-redeemer, it would not have provided the care and security for Naomi. Ruth could have ignored Naomi’s need and looked for a young and handsome husband for herself outside of Naomi’s relatives, but she did not. Ruth models selfless and sacrificial behavior. God wants his people to act selflessly to care for the needs of others around us. Translate **because you have not gone after any of the young men** to mean that Boaz thought Ruth's kindness was great because she decided to marry Boaz and not look for a younger husband.
 
-[^ ]: **3:11** **do not be afraid** (**L**: *do not be afraid* | **S**: *Do not be afraid*) Boaz instructed Ruth not to feel fear. God does not want his people to feel fear. When God's people obey God's commands, they can enjoy peace and security. Translate **do not be afraid!** as an encouraging command not to fear.
+[^119]: **3:11** **do not be afraid** (**L**: *do not be afraid* | **S**: *Do not be afraid*) Boaz instructed Ruth not to feel fear. God does not want his people to feel fear. When God's people obey God's commands, they can enjoy peace and security. Translate **do not be afraid!** as an encouraging command not to fear.
 
-[^ ]: **3:11** **I will do for you all that you say** (**L**: *Everything that you say, I will do for you* | **S**: *I will do everything that you asked*) Boaz told Ruth that he would do the things she asked him to do. This means Boaz agreed to marry Ruth. Earlier, Ruth told Naomi she would do what she told her to do. Here, Boaz says he will do the things Ruth asked her. God rewarded the humility, loyalty, and obedience of Ruth. God blesses and rewards the humble obedience of his people. Translate **I will do for you all that you say** to mean Boaz would marry Ruth and provide her with the security of a home as Ruth as him to do.
+[^120]: **3:11** **I will do for you all that you say** (**L**: *Everything that you say, I will do for you* | **S**: *I will do everything that you asked*) Boaz told Ruth that he would do the things she asked him to do. This means Boaz agreed to marry Ruth. Earlier, Ruth told Naomi she would do what she told her to do. Here, Boaz says he will do the things Ruth asked her. God rewarded the humility, loyalty, and obedience of Ruth. God blesses and rewards the humble obedience of his people. Translate **I will do for you all that you say** to mean Boaz would marry Ruth and provide her with the security of a home as Ruth as him to do.
 
-[^ ]: **3:11** **because all the city of my people knows that you are a worthy woman** (**L**: *for the whole gate of my people knows that you are a woman of worth* | **S**: *because all the people in this town know that you are an honorable woman*) The reason Boaz agreed to marry Ruth was Ruth was an honorable woman. The term **worthy** describes a person of good character. In Hebrew, the phrase **all the city of my people** is literally **the whole gate of my people**. The gate was an area of the city where people gathered to do business, and the leaders met there to make decisions. It was also a place where people entered and left the city. This phrase means either means 1) all the important people of the city knew that Ruth was an honorable woman of good character or 2) many people in the city knew that Ruth was an honorable woman of good character. God wants his people to become godly and honorable. When this happens, the good reputation of God's people can influence the world. Translate **because all the city of my people knows that you are a worthy woman** to mean the reason Boaz chose to marry Ruth was the people who lived in the city of Bethlehem knew Ruth was an honorable woman of good character.
+[^121]: **3:11** **because all the city of my people knows that you are a worthy woman** (**L**: *for the whole gate of my people knows that you are a woman of worth* | **S**: *because all the people in this town know that you are an honorable woman*) The reason Boaz agreed to marry Ruth was Ruth was an honorable woman. The term **worthy** describes a person of good character. In Hebrew, the phrase **all the city of my people** is literally **the whole gate of my people**. The gate was an area of the city where people gathered to do business, and the leaders met there to make decisions. It was also a place where people entered and left the city. This phrase means either means 1) all the important people of the city knew that Ruth was an honorable woman of good character or 2) many people in the city knew that Ruth was an honorable woman of good character. God wants his people to become godly and honorable. When this happens, the good reputation of God's people can influence the world. Translate **because all the city of my people knows that you are a worthy woman** to mean the reason Boaz chose to marry Ruth was the people who lived in the city of Bethlehem knew Ruth was an honorable woman of good character.
 
-[^ ]: **3:12** **It is true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a kinsman-redeemer nearer than I** (**L**: *it is indeed true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a kinsman-redeemer even nearer than I* | **S**: *while I am one of Naomi’s close relatives and, therefore, responsible for you both, there is another man who is more responsible for you than I am because he is more closely related to Naomi*) Although Boaz was a kinsman-redeemer, there was another relative who also was a kinsman-redeemer. This other kinsman-redeemer had the right to marry Ruth first. For **kinsman-redeemer**, see note on 2:20. Boaz honored the role of the other kinsman-redeemer. Boaz did not try to do things his own way and refused the rights of another relative. God's people should be concerned about the rights of others. Translate **It is true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a kinsman-redeemer nearer than I** to mean Boaz was a legitimate kinsman-redeemer, but there was another kinsman-redeemer who had the right and responsibility to marry Ruth before Boaz.
+[^122]: **3:12** **It is true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a kinsman-redeemer nearer than I** (**L**: *it is indeed true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a kinsman-redeemer even nearer than I* | **S**: *while I am one of Naomi’s close relatives and, therefore, responsible for you both, there is another man who is more responsible for you than I am because he is more closely related to Naomi*) Although Boaz was a kinsman-redeemer, there was another relative who also was a kinsman-redeemer. This other kinsman-redeemer had the right to marry Ruth first. For **kinsman-redeemer**, see note on 2:20. Boaz honored the role of the other kinsman-redeemer. Boaz did not try to do things his own way and refused the rights of another relative. God's people should be concerned about the rights of others. Translate **It is true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a kinsman-redeemer nearer than I** to mean Boaz was a legitimate kinsman-redeemer, but there was another kinsman-redeemer who had the right and responsibility to marry Ruth before Boaz.
 
-[^ ]: **3:13** **if he will redeem you as a kinsman-redeemer, good, let him do it** (**L**: *if he will redeem you, good, let him redeem you* | **S**: *If he says that he will take care of you, fine, he can marry you*) Boaz In this context, **redeem** here means to marry according to our custom concerning widows. Boaz is referring to the expectation that the closest male relative of Ruth’s dead husband would marry her and raise a son to carry on the dead man’s family name. Boaz was more concerned about Ruth and her well-being than his own self. Boaz also trusted the circumstances to God. God's people remain faithful to God and obey his commands no matter what happens in life. Translate **if he will redeem you as a kinsman-redeemer, good, let him do it** to mean Boaz would allow the other kinsman-redeemer to redeem Ruth if he decided to. 
+[^123]: **3:13** **if he will redeem you as a kinsman-redeemer, good, let him do it** (**L**: *if he will redeem you, good, let him redeem you* | **S**: *If he says that he will take care of you, fine, he can marry you*) Boaz In this context, **redeem** here means to marry according to our custom concerning widows. Boaz is referring to the expectation that the closest male relative of Ruth’s dead husband would marry her and raise a son to carry on the dead man’s family name. Boaz was more concerned about Ruth and her well-being than his own self. Boaz also trusted the circumstances to God. God's people remain faithful to God and obey his commands no matter what happens in life. Translate **if he will redeem you as a kinsman-redeemer, good, let him do it** to mean Boaz would allow the other kinsman-redeemer to redeem Ruth if he decided to. 
 
-[^ ]: **3:13** **if he will not do the duty of a kinsman for you, then I will do it** (**L**: *if he does not want to redeem you, then I will redeem you myself.* | **S**: *if he is not willing to take care of you, I solemnly promise that, as surely as Yahweh lives, I will marry you and take care of you myself*) Boaz said he would marry Ruth if the other kinsman-redeemer did not marry her. Boaz was willing to take responsibility for Ruth. Translate **if he will not do the duty of a kinsman for you, then I will do it** to mean Boaz promised he would certainly marry Ruth if the other kinsman-redeemer did not marry her.
+[^124]: **3:13** **if he will not do the duty of a kinsman for you, then I will do it** (**L**: *if he does not want to redeem you, then I will redeem you myself.* | **S**: *if he is not willing to take care of you, I solemnly promise that, as surely as Yahweh lives, I will marry you and take care of you myself*) Boaz said he would marry Ruth if the other kinsman-redeemer did not marry her. Boaz was willing to take responsibility for Ruth. Translate **if he will not do the duty of a kinsman for you, then I will do it** to mean Boaz promised he would certainly marry Ruth if the other kinsman-redeemer did not marry her.
 
-[^ ]: **3:13** **by the life of Yahweh** (**L**: *as Yahweh lives.* | **S**: *I solemnly promise that, as surely as Yahweh lives*). Boaz's commitment to marrying Ruth was a vow. The phrase **by the life of Yahweh** was a common Hebrew vow that obligated the speaker to perform what he said. Boaz would be punished if he did not fulfill this vow. Boaz was showing extreme commitment to Ruth and God. God wants his people to be fully committed to him. God's people should be careful about making vows and oaths. When we make an oath, we are obligated to do what we promised. Translate **by the life of Yahweh** to mean Boaz vowed to marry Ruth, and God would punish him if he did not do what he promised. 
+[^125]: **3:13** **by the life of Yahweh** (**L**: *as Yahweh lives.* | **S**: *I solemnly promise that, as surely as Yahweh lives*). Boaz's commitment to marrying Ruth was a vow. The phrase **by the life of Yahweh** was a common Hebrew vow that obligated the speaker to perform what he said. Boaz would be punished if he did not fulfill this vow. Boaz was showing extreme commitment to Ruth and God. God wants his people to be fully committed to him. God's people should be careful about making vows and oaths. When we make an oath, we are obligated to do what we promised. Translate **by the life of Yahweh** to mean Boaz vowed to marry Ruth, and God would punish him if he did not do what he promised. 
 
-14 So she lay at his feet until the morning.[^ ] But she rose up before anyone could recognize another person.[^ ] For Boaz had said, "Let it not be known that the woman came to the threshing floor." 15 Then Boaz said, "Bring your shawl and hold it out."[^ ] When she did so, he measured six large measures of barley into it[^ ] and put the load on her. Then he went into the city. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, she said, "How did you do, my daughter?" Then Ruth told her all that the man had done for her.[^ ] 17 She said, "These six measures of barley are what he gave me,[^ ] for he said, 'Do not go empty to your mother-in-law.'"[^ ] 18 Then Naomi said, "Stay here, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out,[^ ] for the man will not rest until he has finished this thing today."[^ ]
+14 So she lay at his feet until the morning.[^126] But she rose up before anyone could recognize another person.[^127] For Boaz had said, "Let it not be known that the woman came to the threshing floor." 15 Then Boaz said, "Bring your shawl and hold it out."[^128] When she did so, he measured six large measures of barley into it[^129] and put the load on her. Then he went into the city. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, she said, "How did you do, my daughter?" Then Ruth told her all that the man had done for her.[^130] 17 She said, "These six measures of barley are what he gave me,[^131] for he said, 'Do not go empty to your mother-in-law.'"[^132] 18 Then Naomi said, "Stay here, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out,[^133] for the man will not rest until he has finished this thing today."[^134]
 
-[^ ]: **3:14** **she lay at his feet until the morning** See note on 3:4. Ruth obeyed Boaz's instructions in 3:13. 
+[^126]: **3:14** **she lay at his feet until the morning** See note on 3:4. Ruth obeyed Boaz's instructions in 3:13. 
 
-[^ ]: **3:14** **she rose up before anyone could recognize another person** (**L**: *she got up before a man could recognize his friend* | **S**: *So she lay at his feet until early morning and got up to leave before it was light enough that people would be able to recognize her*) Ruth left Boaz early in the morning while it was still dark outside. The phrase **before anyone could recognize another person** describes a time when it was dark, and people could not easily see who another person was. Translate **she rose up before anyone could recognize another person** to mean Ruth got up and left Boaz while it was still dark and other people were not yet awake. 
+[^127]: **3:14** **she rose up before anyone could recognize another person** (**L**: *she got up before a man could recognize his friend* | **S**: *So she lay at his feet until early morning and got up to leave before it was light enough that people would be able to recognize her*) Ruth left Boaz early in the morning while it was still dark outside. The phrase **before anyone could recognize another person** describes a time when it was dark, and people could not easily see who another person was. Translate **she rose up before anyone could recognize another person** to mean Ruth got up and left Boaz while it was still dark and other people were not yet awake. 
 
-[^ ]: **3:15** **Bring your shawl and hold it out** (**L**: *Bring the cloak that is on you, and hold it* | **S**: *Bring your cloak over here and hold it out*) Boaz instructed Ruth to open her shawl so he could fill it with barley. The word **shawl** means a cloak or thick piece of cloth worn over the shoulders for warmth. Translate **Bring your shawl and hold it out** as a command for Ruth to get her cloak and open it so that someone can put something in it.
+[^128]: **3:15** **Bring your shawl and hold it out** (**L**: *Bring the cloak that is on you, and hold it* | **S**: *Bring your cloak over here and hold it out*) Boaz instructed Ruth to open her shawl so he could fill it with barley. The word **shawl** means a cloak or thick piece of cloth worn over the shoulders for warmth. Translate **Bring your shawl and hold it out** as a command for Ruth to get her cloak and open it so that someone can put something in it.
 
-[^ ]: **3:15** **he measured six large measures of barley into it** (**L**: *he measured six measures of barley* | **S**: *he poured a generous amount of barley into it*). Boaz filled Ruth's shawl with a large quantity of barley. The actual amount is not stated. It was enough to be considered generous, yet small enough for Ruth to carry alone. Most scholars think it was around 25 to 30 kilograms. One reason Boaz offered this generous gift to Ruth was to give Naomi a sign of his intent to marry her (see 3:17). Translate **he measured six large measures of barley into it** to mean Boaz put a large quantity of six portions of barley into Ruth's shawl for her to bring back home with her.
+[^129]: **3:15** **he measured six large measures of barley into it** (**L**: *he measured six measures of barley* | **S**: *he poured a generous amount of barley into it*). Boaz filled Ruth's shawl with a large quantity of barley. The actual amount is not stated. It was enough to be considered generous, yet small enough for Ruth to carry alone. Most scholars think it was around 25 to 30 kilograms. One reason Boaz offered this generous gift to Ruth was to give Naomi a sign of his intent to marry her (see 3:17). Translate **he measured six large measures of barley into it** to mean Boaz put a large quantity of six portions of barley into Ruth's shawl for her to bring back home with her.
 
-[^ ]: **3:16** **Then Ruth told her all that the man had done for her** (**L**: *she told her everything that the man had done for her* | **S**: *Ruth told her everything that Boaz had said and done for her*) Ruth reported to Naomi all of the kind things Boaz did for her. When God provides for his people, it is important for God's people to tell others about the good things God has done. Translate **Then Ruth told her all that the man had done for her** to mean Ruth told Naomi all that Boaz had done for Ruth during the time at the threshing floor.
+[^130]: **3:16** **Then Ruth told her all that the man had done for her** (**L**: *she told her everything that the man had done for her* | **S**: *Ruth told her everything that Boaz had said and done for her*) Ruth reported to Naomi all of the kind things Boaz did for her. When God provides for his people, it is important for God's people to tell others about the good things God has done. Translate **Then Ruth told her all that the man had done for her** to mean Ruth told Naomi all that Boaz had done for Ruth during the time at the threshing floor.
 
-[^ ]: **3:17** **These six measures of barley are what he gave me**, see note on 3:15.
+[^131]: **3:17** **These six measures of barley are what he gave me**, see note on 3:15.
 
-[^ ]: **3:17** **Do not go empty to your mother-in-law** (**L**: *You must not go empty to your mother-in-law* | **S**: *I do not want you to return to your mother-in-law with nothing*) Boaz wanted Ruth to return to Naomi with a gift. He did not want her to return empty. In this context, the term **empty** means to have nothing gift in one's hands. Earlier, Naomi grieved that she returned to Bethlehem empty, having lost her husband and sons (see 1:21). Now, God was using Boaz to provide her with a gift that would remove her emptiness. The gift also represented Boaz's intent to marry Ruth, which would cause Naomi to no longer feel loss and emptiness. Translate **Do not go empty to your mother-in-law** as an instruction for Ruth to return to Naomi with the gift of barley so that Ruth would not have anything when she returned home.
+[^132]: **3:17** **Do not go empty to your mother-in-law** (**L**: *You must not go empty to your mother-in-law* | **S**: *I do not want you to return to your mother-in-law with nothing*) Boaz wanted Ruth to return to Naomi with a gift. He did not want her to return empty. In this context, the term **empty** means to have nothing gift in one's hands. Earlier, Naomi grieved that she returned to Bethlehem empty, having lost her husband and sons (see 1:21). Now, God was using Boaz to provide her with a gift that would remove her emptiness. The gift also represented Boaz's intent to marry Ruth, which would cause Naomi to no longer feel loss and emptiness. Translate **Do not go empty to your mother-in-law** as an instruction for Ruth to return to Naomi with the gift of barley so that Ruth would not have anything when she returned home.
 
-[^ ]: **3:18** **until you know how the matter will turn out** (**L**: *until the time when you know how the matter falls* | **S**: *just wait here until we see what happens*) Naomi wanted Ruth to remain where she was until she heard how the situation with Boaz and the other kinsman-redeemer turned out. Again, Ruth has to practice patience while she waits for the issue of her marriage to be resolved. Translate **until you know how the matter will turn out** to mean Naomi wanted Ruth to remain there until she learned what would happen when Boaz spoke with the other kinsman-redeemer.
+[^133]: **3:18** **until you know how the matter will turn out** (**L**: *until the time when you know how the matter falls* | **S**: *just wait here until we see what happens*) Naomi wanted Ruth to remain where she was until she heard how the situation with Boaz and the other kinsman-redeemer turned out. Again, Ruth has to practice patience while she waits for the issue of her marriage to be resolved. Translate **until you know how the matter will turn out** to mean Naomi wanted Ruth to remain there until she learned what would happen when Boaz spoke with the other kinsman-redeemer.
 
-[^ ]: **3:18** **for the man will not rest until he has finished this thing today** (**L**: *For the man will not rest unless he has finished this matter today* | **S**: *That man will certainly take care of this today*) Naomi was confident Boaz would complete the issue that very day. In this context, the phrase **this thing** refers to the decision about who will buy Naomi’s property and marry Ruth.  Translate **for the man will not rest until he has finished this thing today** to mean Boaz would do everything he could so that on that very day, he would finalize the issue related to who would marry Ruth.
+[^134]: **3:18** **for the man will not rest until he has finished this thing today** (**L**: *For the man will not rest unless he has finished this matter today* | **S**: *That man will certainly take care of this today*) Naomi was confident Boaz would complete the issue that very day. In this context, the phrase **this thing** refers to the decision about who will buy Naomi’s property and marry Ruth.  Translate **for the man will not rest until he has finished this thing today** to mean Boaz would do everything he could so that on that very day, he would finalize the issue related to who would marry Ruth.
 
-4:1 Now Boaz went up to the gate[^ ] and sat down there. Soon, the kinsman-redeemer of whom Boaz had spoken came by. Boaz said to him, "My friend, come over and sit down here." The man came over and sat down. 2 Then Boaz took ten men of the elders of the city and said, "Sit down here." So they sat down. 3 Boaz said to the kinsman-redeemer, "Naomi, who has returned from the country of Moab, is selling the parcel of land that was our brother Elimelek's.[^ ] 4 I thought to inform you and say to you, 'Buy it in the presence of those who are sitting here, and in the presence of the elders of my people.'[^ ] If you wish to redeem it, redeem it.[^ ] But if you do not wish to redeem it, then tell me,[^ ] so that I may know, for there is no one to redeem it besides you,[^ ] and I am after you."[^ ] Then the other man said, "I will redeem it."[^ ] 5 Then Boaz said, "On the day that you buy the field from the hand of Naomi,[^ ] you must also take Ruth the Moabite woman, the widow of a dead man,[^ ] in order to raise up the name of the dead on his inheritance."[^ ] 6 Then the kinsman-redeemer said, "I cannot redeem it for myself without damaging my own inheritance.[^ ] You take my right of redemption for yourself,[^ ] for I cannot redeem it."
+4:1 Now Boaz went up to the gate[^135] and sat down there. Soon, the kinsman-redeemer of whom Boaz had spoken came by. Boaz said to him, "My friend, come over and sit down here." The man came over and sat down. 2 Then Boaz took ten men of the elders of the city and said, "Sit down here." So they sat down. 3 Boaz said to the kinsman-redeemer, "Naomi, who has returned from the country of Moab, is selling the parcel of land that was our brother Elimelek's.[^136] 4 I thought to inform you and say to you, 'Buy it in the presence of those who are sitting here, and in the presence of the elders of my people.'[^137] If you wish to redeem it, redeem it.[^138] But if you do not wish to redeem it, then tell me,[^139] so that I may know, for there is no one to redeem it besides you,[^140] and I am after you."[^141] Then the other man said, "I will redeem it."[^142] 5 Then Boaz said, "On the day that you buy the field from the hand of Naomi,[^143] you must also take Ruth the Moabite woman, the widow of a dead man,[^144] in order to raise up the name of the dead on his inheritance."[^145] 6 Then the kinsman-redeemer said, "I cannot redeem it for myself without damaging my own inheritance.[^146] You take my right of redemption for yourself,[^147] for I cannot redeem it."
 
-[^ ]: **4:1** **Boaz went up to the gate** (**L**: *to the gate* | **S**: *to the place inside the town gate where people conducted their official business*). Boaz went to the gate of the city of Bethlehem. The **gate** was the main entrance to the walled town of Bethlehem. Inside the gate was an open area used as a meeting place to discuss important community matters. It was also a place to see many people who lived in the city. Boaz went to a place in the city to find the other kinsman-redeemer and to officially settle who would marry Ruth. Boaz's work of redeeming Ruth teaches us about God's redemption/salvation of his people. When God redeems his people, he does it publicly so the world can see. Translate **Boaz went up to the gate** to mean Boaz went to the gate of the city of Bethlehem. 
+[^135]: **4:1** **Boaz went up to the gate** (**L**: *to the gate* | **S**: *to the place inside the town gate where people conducted their official business*). Boaz went to the gate of the city of Bethlehem. The **gate** was the main entrance to the walled town of Bethlehem. Inside the gate was an open area used as a meeting place to discuss important community matters. It was also a place to see many people who lived in the city. Boaz went to a place in the city to find the other kinsman-redeemer and to officially settle who would marry Ruth. Boaz's work of redeeming Ruth teaches us about God's redemption/salvation of his people. When God redeems his people, he does it publicly so the world can see. Translate **Boaz went up to the gate** to mean Boaz went to the gate of the city of Bethlehem. 
 
-[^ ]: **4:3** **is selling the parcel of land that was our brother Elimelek's** (**L**: *is selling the portion of the field that belonged to our brother Elimelek* | **S**: *The field that belonged to our relative Elimelek is for sale and Naomi is selling it*) Boaz told the other kinsman-redeemer that Naomi was selling land. It was the responsibility of the nearest kinsman to Elimelek to buy back the land that had belonged to Elimelek and to care for Elimelek’s family. When God redeems his people, he takes responsibility to save and help people who cannot save and help themselves. Translate **is selling the parcel of land that was our brother Elimelek's** to mean Naomi was selling land that belonged to her husband Elimelek.
+[^136]: **4:3** **is selling the parcel of land that was our brother Elimelek's** (**L**: *is selling the portion of the field that belonged to our brother Elimelek* | **S**: *The field that belonged to our relative Elimelek is for sale and Naomi is selling it*) Boaz told the other kinsman-redeemer that Naomi was selling land. It was the responsibility of the nearest kinsman to Elimelek to buy back the land that had belonged to Elimelek and to care for Elimelek’s family. When God redeems his people, he takes responsibility to save and help people who cannot save and help themselves. Translate **is selling the parcel of land that was our brother Elimelek's** to mean Naomi was selling land that belonged to her husband Elimelek.
 
-[^ ]: **4:4** **Buy it in the presence of those who are sitting here, in the presence of the elders of my people** (**L**: *Buy it, in the presence of those who are sitting here and in the presence of the elders of my people* | **S**: *take possession of it here in front of these respected men who have agreed to be witnesses*) Boaz told the other kinsman-redeemer to The phrase **in the presence of** means the men and elders watching the transaction would be witnesses and would make the transaction legal and binding. When God redeems his people, he makes it official and real. Translate **Buy it in the presence of those who are sitting here, in the presence of the elders of my people** as a command for the other kinsman-redeemer to fulfill his kinsman duty to purchase Elimelek's property and to let the men and elders watching be witnesses that the transaction would be official.
+[^137]: **4:4** **Buy it in the presence of those who are sitting here, in the presence of the elders of my people** (**L**: *Buy it, in the presence of those who are sitting here and in the presence of the elders of my people* | **S**: *take possession of it here in front of these respected men who have agreed to be witnesses*) Boaz told the other kinsman-redeemer to The phrase **in the presence of** means the men and elders watching the transaction would be witnesses and would make the transaction legal and binding. When God redeems his people, he makes it official and real. Translate **Buy it in the presence of those who are sitting here, in the presence of the elders of my people** as a command for the other kinsman-redeemer to fulfill his kinsman duty to purchase Elimelek's property and to let the men and elders watching be witnesses that the transaction would be official.
 
-[^ ]: **4:4** **If you wish to redeem it, redeem it** (**L**: *If you will redeem it, redeem it* | **S**: *If you wish to buy it back into the family, then do so*) See note on 3:13.
+[^138]: **4:4** **If you wish to redeem it, redeem it** (**L**: *If you will redeem it, redeem it* | **S**: *If you wish to buy it back into the family, then do so*) See note on 3:13.
 
-[^ ]: **4:4** **if you do not wish to redeem it, then tell me** (**L**: *if you will not redeem it, then tell me* | **S**: *if you do not wish to buy it back, then let me know*) See note on 3:13.
+[^139]: **4:4** **if you do not wish to redeem it, then tell me** (**L**: *if you will not redeem it, then tell me* | **S**: *if you do not wish to buy it back, then let me know*) See note on 3:13.
 
-[^ ]: **4:4** **for there is no one to redeem it besides you** (**L**: *there is no one to redeem it besides you* | **S**: *because you are the closest relative to Elimelek*) The other kinsman-redeemer was the closest relative to Elimeleklek. Boaz told the kinsman-redeemer that it was the person most responsible to buy Elimelek's land. Translate **for there is no one to redeem it besides you** to mean no other person is closer relative than the other kinsman-redeemer and he is most responsible to buy Elimelek's land.
+[^140]: **4:4** **for there is no one to redeem it besides you** (**L**: *there is no one to redeem it besides you* | **S**: *because you are the closest relative to Elimelek*) The other kinsman-redeemer was the closest relative to Elimeleklek. Boaz told the kinsman-redeemer that it was the person most responsible to buy Elimelek's land. Translate **for there is no one to redeem it besides you** to mean no other person is closer relative than the other kinsman-redeemer and he is most responsible to buy Elimelek's land.
 
-[^ ]: **4:4** **I am after you** (**L**: *I am after you* | **S**: *I am next after you*). Boaz was the next nearest kinsman to Elimelek, and so had the second right to redeem the land. Translate **I am after you** to mean Boaz was the next closest relative to Elimelek, who had the right and responsibility to buy the land as a kinsman-redeemer.
+[^141]: **4:4** **I am after you** (**L**: *I am after you* | **S**: *I am next after you*). Boaz was the next nearest kinsman to Elimelek, and so had the second right to redeem the land. Translate **I am after you** to mean Boaz was the next closest relative to Elimelek, who had the right and responsibility to buy the land as a kinsman-redeemer.
 
-[^ ]: **4:4** **I will redeem it** (**L**: *I will redeem it myself* | **S**: *I will take it!*) Boaz expressed his desire to buy Elimelek's land if the other kinsman-redeemer did not want to buy it. God cares about his people and is willing to redeem his people. Translate **I will redeem it** to mean Boaz was willing to buy the land as a kinsman-redeemer if the other kinsman-redeemer did not want to buy it.
+[^142]: **4:4** **I will redeem it** (**L**: *I will redeem it myself* | **S**: *I will take it!*) Boaz expressed his desire to buy Elimelek's land if the other kinsman-redeemer did not want to buy it. God cares about his people and is willing to redeem his people. Translate **I will redeem it** to mean Boaz was willing to buy the land as a kinsman-redeemer if the other kinsman-redeemer did not want to buy it.
 
-[^ ]: **4:5** **On the day that you buy the field from the hand of Naomi** (**L**: *On the day that you buy the field from the hand of Naomi* | **S**: *When you buy the land from Naomi*). Boaz told the other kinsman-redeemer what would happen if he bought Elimelek's field. In this context, the word **hand** represents Naomi, who owns the field. When God redeems his people, he causes his people to belong to him. Translate **On the day that you buy the field from the hand of Naomi** to mean there was another action the kinsman-redeemer would have to take at the same time he bought Naomi's land. 
+[^143]: **4:5** **On the day that you buy the field from the hand of Naomi** (**L**: *On the day that you buy the field from the hand of Naomi* | **S**: *When you buy the land from Naomi*). Boaz told the other kinsman-redeemer what would happen if he bought Elimelek's field. In this context, the word **hand** represents Naomi, who owns the field. When God redeems his people, he causes his people to belong to him. Translate **On the day that you buy the field from the hand of Naomi** to mean there was another action the kinsman-redeemer would have to take at the same time he bought Naomi's land. 
 
-[^ ]: **4:5** **you must also take Ruth** (**L**: *you also acquire Ruth* | **S**: *you will also need to marry Ruth*). Boaz told the kinsman-redeemer that he had to marry Ruth if he bought Naomi's land. There was an ongoing responsibility to care for Ruth and her family if he redeemed the property. When God redeems his people, he takes full responsibility for caring for his people into the future. Translate **you must also take Ruth** to mean the kinsman-redeemer was also required to marry Ruth if he wanted to purchase Naomi's land.
+[^144]: **4:5** **you must also take Ruth** (**L**: *you also acquire Ruth* | **S**: *you will also need to marry Ruth*). Boaz told the kinsman-redeemer that he had to marry Ruth if he bought Naomi's land. There was an ongoing responsibility to care for Ruth and her family if he redeemed the property. When God redeems his people, he takes full responsibility for caring for his people into the future. Translate **you must also take Ruth** to mean the kinsman-redeemer was also required to marry Ruth if he wanted to purchase Naomi's land.
 
-[^ ]: **4:5** **in order to raise up the name of the dead on his inheritance** (**L**: *in order to raise up the name of the dead over his inheritance* | **S**: *in order that she may have a son to inherit the property and carry on the name of her dead husband*) Boaz informed the kinsman-redeemer that the purpose of marrying Ruth was to make sure Ruth's husband had a son who could continue his family lineage and inheritance. In this context, the word **raise** means to cause something to be set up or established. To **raise up the name** means to cause a family lineage to continue. In this context, **the dead** refers to Ruth's husband. The word **inheritance** means valuable things received from a parent after a parent dies. When God redeems his people, he restores broken lives and gives them hope and promise of a future inheritance. Translate **in order to raise up the name of the dead on his inheritance** to mean the kinsman-redeemer was responsible for marrying Ruth so that she may have a son to inherit the property and carry on her dead husband’s family name.
+[^145]: **4:5** **in order to raise up the name of the dead on his inheritance** (**L**: *in order to raise up the name of the dead over his inheritance* | **S**: *in order that she may have a son to inherit the property and carry on the name of her dead husband*) Boaz informed the kinsman-redeemer that the purpose of marrying Ruth was to make sure Ruth's husband had a son who could continue his family lineage and inheritance. In this context, the word **raise** means to cause something to be set up or established. To **raise up the name** means to cause a family lineage to continue. In this context, **the dead** refers to Ruth's husband. The word **inheritance** means valuable things received from a parent after a parent dies. When God redeems his people, he restores broken lives and gives them hope and promise of a future inheritance. Translate **in order to raise up the name of the dead on his inheritance** to mean the kinsman-redeemer was responsible for marrying Ruth so that she may have a son to inherit the property and carry on her dead husband’s family name.
 
-[^ ]: **4:6** **I cannot redeem it for myself without damaging my own inheritance** (**L**: *I am not able to redeem it for myself without damaging my own inheritance* | **S**: *I cannot buy it back myself. If I did that, I would ruin my own son’s inheritance*) The kinsman-redeemer said that he could not buy the land (and marry Ruth) without harming his own inheritance. For **inheritance**, see note on 4:5. The man would need to give some of his wealth in exchange for the property. Then if he were to marry Ruth, that property would belong to her son, not his own children. In that way, he would be taking away from the wealth that his children would inherit from him and giving it to the children that Ruth might bear. Translate **I cannot redeem it for myself without damaging my own inheritance** to mean the kinsman-redeemer was not willing to buy the land and marry Ruth without taking away from my own children’s inheritance.
+[^146]: **4:6** **I cannot redeem it for myself without damaging my own inheritance** (**L**: *I am not able to redeem it for myself without damaging my own inheritance* | **S**: *I cannot buy it back myself. If I did that, I would ruin my own son’s inheritance*) The kinsman-redeemer said that he could not buy the land (and marry Ruth) without harming his own inheritance. For **inheritance**, see note on 4:5. The man would need to give some of his wealth in exchange for the property. Then if he were to marry Ruth, that property would belong to her son, not his own children. In that way, he would be taking away from the wealth that his children would inherit from him and giving it to the children that Ruth might bear. Translate **I cannot redeem it for myself without damaging my own inheritance** to mean the kinsman-redeemer was not willing to buy the land and marry Ruth without taking away from my own children’s inheritance.
 
-[^ ]: **4:6** **You take my right of redemption for yourself** (**L**: *You redeem for yourself my right of redemption* | **S**: *You may be responsible for the land and the woman in my place*). The kinsman-redeemer gave permission for Boaz to buy the land and marry Ruth as the closest kinsman-redeemer would typically do. People cannot save themselves or each other. When God redeems his people, God does what people cannot do for themselves. Translate **You take my right of redemption for yourself, for I cannot redeem it** to mean Boaz should act as the kinsman-redeemer instead of the kinsman-redeemer who was a closer relative of Naomi. 
+[^147]: **4:6** **You take my right of redemption for yourself** (**L**: *You redeem for yourself my right of redemption* | **S**: *You may be responsible for the land and the woman in my place*). The kinsman-redeemer gave permission for Boaz to buy the land and marry Ruth as the closest kinsman-redeemer would typically do. People cannot save themselves or each other. When God redeems his people, God does what people cannot do for themselves. Translate **You take my right of redemption for yourself, for I cannot redeem it** to mean Boaz should act as the kinsman-redeemer instead of the kinsman-redeemer who was a closer relative of Naomi. 
 
-7 Now this was the custom in former times in Israel[^ ] concerning the redemption and exchange of goods.[^ ] To confirm all things, a man took off his shoe and gave it to his neighbor;[^ ] this was the manner of making legal agreements in Israel.[^ ] 8 So the kinsman-redeemer said to Boaz, "Buy it for yourself," and he took off his sandal.[^ ] 9 Then Boaz said to the elders and to all the people, "You are witnesses today[^ ] that I have bought all that was Elimelek's and all that was Kilion's and Mahlon's from the hand of Naomi. 10 Also Ruth the Moabite woman, the wife of Mahlon, I have acquired to be my wife,[^ ] in order that I might raise up the name of the dead man on his inheritance,[^ ] so that his name will not be cut off[^ ] from among his brothers and from the gate of his place.[^ ] Today you are witnesses!"[^ ] 11 All the people who were in the gate and the elders said, "We are witnesses. May Yahweh make the woman who has come into your house like Rachel and Leah,[^ ] the two who built up the house of Israel;[^ ] and may you prosper in Ephrathah and be renowned in Bethlehem.[^ ] 12 May your house be like the house of Perez,[^ ] whom Tamar bore to Judah, through the offspring that Yahweh will give you with this young woman."
+7 Now this was the custom in former times in Israel[^148] concerning the redemption and exchange of goods.[^149] To confirm all things, a man took off his shoe and gave it to his neighbor;[^150] this was the manner of making legal agreements in Israel.[^151] 8 So the kinsman-redeemer said to Boaz, "Buy it for yourself," and he took off his sandal.[^152] 9 Then Boaz said to the elders and to all the people, "You are witnesses today[^153] that I have bought all that was Elimelek's and all that was Kilion's and Mahlon's from the hand of Naomi. 10 Also Ruth the Moabite woman, the wife of Mahlon, I have acquired to be my wife,[^154] in order that I might raise up the name of the dead man on his inheritance,[^155] so that his name will not be cut off[^156] from among his brothers and from the gate of his place.[^157] Today you are witnesses!"[^158] 11 All the people who were in the gate and the elders said, "We are witnesses. May Yahweh make the woman who has come into your house like Rachel and Leah,[^159] the two who built up the house of Israel;[^160] and may you prosper in Ephrathah and be renowned in Bethlehem.[^161] 12 May your house be like the house of Perez,[^162] whom Tamar bore to Judah, through the offspring that Yahweh will give you with this young woman."
 
-[^ ]: **4:7** **this was the custom in former times in Israel** (**L**: *in earlier times in Israel, this is what people did* | **S**: *At that time, it was the custom in Israel*). The narrator of the story describes a common practice that ancient Israelites did. This common practice was done many years before the Book of Ruth was written. God works in human history and culture to redeem his people. Jesus was born into the world and lived among humans. Translate **this was the custom in former times in Israel** to mean this was a practice many Israelites did many years before the book of Ruth was written.
+[^148]: **4:7** **this was the custom in former times in Israel** (**L**: *in earlier times in Israel, this is what people did* | **S**: *At that time, it was the custom in Israel*). The narrator of the story describes a common practice that ancient Israelites did. This common practice was done many years before the Book of Ruth was written. God works in human history and culture to redeem his people. Jesus was born into the world and lived among humans. Translate **this was the custom in former times in Israel** to mean this was a practice many Israelites did many years before the book of Ruth was written.
 
-[^ ]: **4:7** **concerning the redemption and exchange of goods** (**L**: *concerning redemption and concerning the exchange of goods* | **S**: *when two people agreed to redeem or exchange anything between them*). The narrator describes a common practice about how ancient Israelites officially transferred ownership of possessions from one person to another. The word **redemption** describes the act of a close male relative taking care of widows in their family. See note on 2:20. The phrase **exchange of goods** describes the transfer of possession in a commercial or business transaction. These two terms describe similar actions and refer to different transactions. When God redeems his people, they belong to him. Translate **concerning the redemption and exchange of goods** to mean the custom was how ancient Israelites transferred possession of things in the act of redemption, business, or all kinds of other transactions in general.
+[^149]: **4:7** **concerning the redemption and exchange of goods** (**L**: *concerning redemption and concerning the exchange of goods* | **S**: *when two people agreed to redeem or exchange anything between them*). The narrator describes a common practice about how ancient Israelites officially transferred ownership of possessions from one person to another. The word **redemption** describes the act of a close male relative taking care of widows in their family. See note on 2:20. The phrase **exchange of goods** describes the transfer of possession in a commercial or business transaction. These two terms describe similar actions and refer to different transactions. When God redeems his people, they belong to him. Translate **concerning the redemption and exchange of goods** to mean the custom was how ancient Israelites transferred possession of things in the act of redemption, business, or all kinds of other transactions in general.
 
-[^ ]: **4:7** **a man took off his shoe and gave it to his neighbor** (**L**: *a man took off his sandal and gave it to his friend* | **S**: *one man would take off one of his sandals and give it to the other man*). In ancient Israel, when a person wanted to confirm a transaction to transfer possession of goods to another person, he removed his sandal and gave it to the person. This behavior symbolized the transfer of goods. Translate **a man took off his shoe and gave it to his neighbor** to mean a man removed his sandal and gave it to another person when he wanted to transfer goods to that person.
+[^150]: **4:7** **a man took off his shoe and gave it to his neighbor** (**L**: *a man took off his sandal and gave it to his friend* | **S**: *one man would take off one of his sandals and give it to the other man*). In ancient Israel, when a person wanted to confirm a transaction to transfer possession of goods to another person, he removed his sandal and gave it to the person. This behavior symbolized the transfer of goods. Translate **a man took off his shoe and gave it to his neighbor** to mean a man removed his sandal and gave it to another person when he wanted to transfer goods to that person.
 
-[^ ]: **4:7** **this was the manner of making legal agreements in Israel** (**L**: *this was the form of legal agreement in Israel* | **S**: *That was the way they completed transactions in Israel*). The custom of removing one's sandal and giving it to another was how ancient Israelites made transactions official. The phrase **making legal agreements** describes an act of making something confirming something as valid and binding. When God redeems his people, he makes their redemption official, binding, and permanent.  Translate **this was the manner of making legal agreements in Israel** to mean the act of removing a sandal and giving it to another person was a symbolic way to make a transaction lawful and official.
+[^151]: **4:7** **this was the manner of making legal agreements in Israel** (**L**: *this was the form of legal agreement in Israel* | **S**: *That was the way they completed transactions in Israel*). The custom of removing one's sandal and giving it to another was how ancient Israelites made transactions official. The phrase **making legal agreements** describes an act of making something confirming something as valid and binding. When God redeems his people, he makes their redemption official, binding, and permanent.  Translate **this was the manner of making legal agreements in Israel** to mean the act of removing a sandal and giving it to another person was a symbolic way to make a transaction lawful and official.
 
-[^ ]: **4:8** **he took off his sandal**, see note on 4:7.
+[^152]: **4:8** **he took off his sandal**, see note on 4:7.
 
-[^ ]: **4:9** **You are witnesses today** (**L**: *You are witnesses today* | **S**: *Today you have all seen*) Boaz told the elders and people watching that they were witnesses of this transaction. The term **witnesses** describe people who have personally experienced something that happened and can testify about what they know is true. The witnesses confirmed that the transaction really happened. God confirmed his work of redemption with witnesses who verified Jesus' birth, life, teaching, death, resurrection, and ascension. When God redeems his people, they belong to him. Translate **You are witnesses today** to mean the elders, and the people watching this event saw and heard it and could testify that the transaction really did occur.
+[^153]: **4:9** **You are witnesses today** (**L**: *You are witnesses today* | **S**: *Today you have all seen*) Boaz told the elders and people watching that they were witnesses of this transaction. The term **witnesses** describe people who have personally experienced something that happened and can testify about what they know is true. The witnesses confirmed that the transaction really happened. God confirmed his work of redemption with witnesses who verified Jesus' birth, life, teaching, death, resurrection, and ascension. When God redeems his people, they belong to him. Translate **You are witnesses today** to mean the elders, and the people watching this event saw and heard it and could testify that the transaction really did occur.
 
-[^ ]: **4:10** **I have acquired to be my wife** (**L**: *I am also acquiring as my wife* | **S**: *I am also taking Ruth to be my wife*) The other kinsman-redeemer gave his right of redemption to Boaz so that Boaz would marry Ruth. The word **acquired** means to purchase or buy something. Boaz took responsibility to marry Ruth and care for her and her family. When God redeems his people, he makes a payment to make them his own. Jesus dying on the cross was a payment God made to redeem people. Translate **I have acquired to be my wife** to mean Boaz was officially recognized as the man with the right and responsibility to marry Ruth.
+[^154]: **4:10** **I have acquired to be my wife** (**L**: *I am also acquiring as my wife* | **S**: *I am also taking Ruth to be my wife*) The other kinsman-redeemer gave his right of redemption to Boaz so that Boaz would marry Ruth. The word **acquired** means to purchase or buy something. Boaz took responsibility to marry Ruth and care for her and her family. When God redeems his people, he makes a payment to make them his own. Jesus dying on the cross was a payment God made to redeem people. Translate **I have acquired to be my wife** to mean Boaz was officially recognized as the man with the right and responsibility to marry Ruth.
 
-[^ ]: **4:10** **in order that I might raise up the name of the dead man on his inheritance**. See note on 4:5.
+[^155]: **4:10** **in order that I might raise up the name of the dead man on his inheritance**. See note on 4:5.
 
-[^ ]: **4:10** **so that his name will not be cut off** (**L**: *so that the name of the dead man will not be cut off* | **S**: *He will inherit the property and carry on the family name*) Boaz caused the lineage of Ruth's husband to continue by marrying Ruth. In this context, the word **name** refers to a person's reputation and lineage. The future generations of descendants born to Ruth would cause the lineage of Ruth's deceased husband to continue. In this context, the term **cut off** describes what would happen if Ruth's husband had no descendants to carry on his family name. When God redeems his people, he does more than perpetuate their name or lineage. God gives them eternal life. Translate **so that his name will not be cut off** to mean one of the outcomes of Boaz marrying Ruth was that the lineage of Ruth's husband would continue by Boaz and Ruth having children.
+[^156]: **4:10** **so that his name will not be cut off** (**L**: *so that the name of the dead man will not be cut off* | **S**: *He will inherit the property and carry on the family name*) Boaz caused the lineage of Ruth's husband to continue by marrying Ruth. In this context, the word **name** refers to a person's reputation and lineage. The future generations of descendants born to Ruth would cause the lineage of Ruth's deceased husband to continue. In this context, the term **cut off** describes what would happen if Ruth's husband had no descendants to carry on his family name. When God redeems his people, he does more than perpetuate their name or lineage. God gives them eternal life. Translate **so that his name will not be cut off** to mean one of the outcomes of Boaz marrying Ruth was that the lineage of Ruth's husband would continue by Boaz and Ruth having children.
 
-[^ ]: **4:10** **from the gate of his place** (**L**: *from the gate of his place* | **S**: *among his relatives and here in his hometown*) For **gate**, see note on 4:1.
+[^157]: **4:10** **from the gate of his place** (**L**: *from the gate of his place* | **S**: *among his relatives and here in his hometown*) For **gate**, see note on 4:1.
 
-[^ ]: **4:10** **Today you are witnesses**. See note on 4:9.
+[^158]: **4:10** **Today you are witnesses**. See note on 4:9.
 
-[^ ]: **4:11** **May Yahweh make the woman who has come into your house like Rachel and Leah** (**L**: *May Yahweh make this woman who is coming into your house like Rachel and Leah* | **S**: *We pray that Yahweh will allow this woman, who will be coming into your home, to be like Rachel and Leah*) The people gathered at the gate asked God to make Ruth a very important woman to Israel, like Rachel and Leah. Rachel and Leah were the two wives of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel. They bore many children who started the Israelite people. As Ruth marries Boaz, she will move into his house. In this context, the word **house** can refer to Boaz's physical house where Ruth would live and Boaz's family. Ruth was becoming a full member of Boaz's family. When God redeems his people, they become full members of his family. Translate **May Yahweh make the woman who has come into your house like Rachel and Leah** as a request for God to cause Ruth to be a very important woman for the Israelite people like Rachel and Leah when Ruth marries Boaz, and she becomes a part of his family.
+[^159]: **4:11** **May Yahweh make the woman who has come into your house like Rachel and Leah** (**L**: *May Yahweh make this woman who is coming into your house like Rachel and Leah* | **S**: *We pray that Yahweh will allow this woman, who will be coming into your home, to be like Rachel and Leah*) The people gathered at the gate asked God to make Ruth a very important woman to Israel, like Rachel and Leah. Rachel and Leah were the two wives of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel. They bore many children who started the Israelite people. As Ruth marries Boaz, she will move into his house. In this context, the word **house** can refer to Boaz's physical house where Ruth would live and Boaz's family. Ruth was becoming a full member of Boaz's family. When God redeems his people, they become full members of his family. Translate **May Yahweh make the woman who has come into your house like Rachel and Leah** as a request for God to cause Ruth to be a very important woman for the Israelite people like Rachel and Leah when Ruth marries Boaz, and she becomes a part of his family.
 
-[^ ]: **4:11** **the two who built up the house of Israel** (**L**: *the two who built up the house of Israel* | **S**: *the two who bore our ancestors and started our people, Israel*) Rachel and Leah bore many children and started the Israelite people. The people wanted God to cause Ruth to be important in building up Israel as Rachel and Lead did. When God redeems his people, he wants them to participate in making God's people strong and mature. Translate **the two who built up the house of Israel** to mean Rachel and Leah gave birth to children who formed the start of the Israelite people.
+[^160]: **4:11** **the two who built up the house of Israel** (**L**: *the two who built up the house of Israel* | **S**: *the two who bore our ancestors and started our people, Israel*) Rachel and Leah bore many children and started the Israelite people. The people wanted God to cause Ruth to be important in building up Israel as Rachel and Lead did. When God redeems his people, he wants them to participate in making God's people strong and mature. Translate **the two who built up the house of Israel** to mean Rachel and Leah gave birth to children who formed the start of the Israelite people.
 
-[^ ]: **4:11** **may you prosper in Ephrathah and be renowned in Bethlehem** (**L**: *Achieve honor in Ephrathah, and be renowned in Bethlehem* | **S**: *We desire that you become rich in the clan of Ephrathah and famous here in Bethlehem*) The people asked God to make Ruth honorable and well-known. **Ephrathah** was an area around Bethlehem. The term **prosper** means to be a person of importance, influence, and good reputation. The term **renowned** means to be well-known and respected by others. These two terms have similar meanings. The people wanted Ruth to do good things in Bethlehem and to become well-known for them. When God redeems his people, he wants them to become honorable and respectable people of godly character and good reputation.  Translate **may you prosper in Ephrathah and be renowned in Bethlehem** as a request for God to make Ruth a well-known and honorable woman of good reputation in Ephrathah and Bethlehem.
+[^161]: **4:11** **may you prosper in Ephrathah and be renowned in Bethlehem** (**L**: *Achieve honor in Ephrathah, and be renowned in Bethlehem* | **S**: *We desire that you become rich in the clan of Ephrathah and famous here in Bethlehem*) The people asked God to make Ruth honorable and well-known. **Ephrathah** was an area around Bethlehem. The term **prosper** means to be a person of importance, influence, and good reputation. The term **renowned** means to be well-known and respected by others. These two terms have similar meanings. The people wanted Ruth to do good things in Bethlehem and to become well-known for them. When God redeems his people, he wants them to become honorable and respectable people of godly character and good reputation.  Translate **may you prosper in Ephrathah and be renowned in Bethlehem** as a request for God to make Ruth a well-known and honorable woman of good reputation in Ephrathah and Bethlehem.
 
-[^ ]: **4:12** **May your house be like the house of Perez** (**L**: *may your house become like the house of Perez* | **S**: *We pray that your family will be like the family of your ancestor Perez*). The people asked God to make Boaz's family prosperous. In this context, **house** refers to family or clan. Perez had many descendants who became large clans in Israel, including the clan of Ephrathah. Also, many of his descendants became important people. The people were asking God to bless Boaz in a similar way through Ruth’s children. Translate **May your house be like the house of Perez** as a request for God to cause Boaz to have many descendants like Perez. 
+[^162]: **4:12** **May your house be like the house of Perez** (**L**: *may your house become like the house of Perez* | **S**: *We pray that your family will be like the family of your ancestor Perez*). The people asked God to make Boaz's family prosperous. In this context, **house** refers to family or clan. Perez had many descendants who became large clans in Israel, including the clan of Ephrathah. Also, many of his descendants became important people. The people were asking God to bless Boaz in a similar way through Ruth’s children. Translate **May your house be like the house of Perez** as a request for God to cause Boaz to have many descendants like Perez. 
 
-13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife.[^ ] He slept with her,[^ ] and Yahweh allowed her to become pregnant, and she bore a son. 14 The women said to Naomi, "May Yahweh be blessed,[^ ] who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemer.[^ ] May his name be renowned in Israel.[^ ] 15 May he be for you a restorer of life[^ ] and a nourisher of your old age,[^ ] for your daughter-in-law, who loves you, who is better to you than seven sons,[^ ] has borne him." 16 Naomi took the child, laid him in her bosom, and took care of him. 17 The women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, "A son has been born to Naomi." They named him Obed. He became the father of Jesse, who became the father of David.
+13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife.[^163] He slept with her,[^164] and Yahweh allowed her to become pregnant, and she bore a son. 14 The women said to Naomi, "May Yahweh be blessed,[^165] who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemer.[^166] May his name be renowned in Israel.[^167] 15 May he be for you a restorer of life[^168] and a nourisher of your old age,[^169] for your daughter-in-law, who loves you, who is better to you than seven sons,[^170] has borne him." 16 Naomi took the child, laid him in her bosom, and took care of him. 17 The women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, "A son has been born to Naomi." They named him Obed. He became the father of Jesse, who became the father of David.
 
-[^ ]: **4:13** **So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife** (**L**: *So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife* | **S**: *So Boaz took Ruth to be his wife*) Boaz married Ruth. In this context, the word **took** describes the act of a man marrying a woman. When God redeems his people, they become united with him. Translate **So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife** to mean Boaz married Ruth, and Ruth became Boaz's wife.
+[^163]: **4:13** **So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife** (**L**: *So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife* | **S**: *So Boaz took Ruth to be his wife*) Boaz married Ruth. In this context, the word **took** describes the act of a man marrying a woman. When God redeems his people, they become united with him. Translate **So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife** to mean Boaz married Ruth, and Ruth became Boaz's wife.
 
-[^ ]: **4:13** **He slept with her** (**L**: *he went in to her* | **S**: *had sex with her*). Boaz and Ruth had sexual relations as husband and wife. Translate **He slept with her** as a polite expression for sexual intercourse between a husband and a wife.
+[^164]: **4:13** **He slept with her** (**L**: *he went in to her* | **S**: *had sex with her*). Boaz and Ruth had sexual relations as husband and wife. Translate **He slept with her** as a polite expression for sexual intercourse between a husband and a wife.
 
-[^ ]: **4:14** **May Yahweh be blessed** (**L**: *Blessed be Yahweh* | **S**: *Praise Yahweh*). The women of Bethlehem praised God when Ruth gave birth to a child. They said this praise to Naomi. God provided Naomi with safety and security by providing a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth. When God saves his people, it leads to people worshiping and praising God. Only God can redeem people. He deserves to be praised for his work of redemption. Translate **May Yahweh be blessed** as a request for people to praise God.
+[^165]: **4:14** **May Yahweh be blessed** (**L**: *Blessed be Yahweh* | **S**: *Praise Yahweh*). The women of Bethlehem praised God when Ruth gave birth to a child. They said this praise to Naomi. God provided Naomi with safety and security by providing a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth. When God saves his people, it leads to people worshiping and praising God. Only God can redeem people. He deserves to be praised for his work of redemption. Translate **May Yahweh be blessed** as a request for people to praise God.
 
-[^ ]: **4:14** **who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemer** (**L**: *who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemer* | **S**: *for giving you a man to preserve your family today*) The women praised God for providing a kinsman-redeemer for Naomi. In this context, the word **left** means to allow something to be mission or absent. For **kinsman-redeemer**, see note on 2:20. When God redeems his people, he does not leave them in their sinful condition. God intervenes in the situation of sinful humans to save and rescue them from sin, death, and punishment. Translate **who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemer** to mean God did not allow Naomi and Ruth to be without a kinsman-redeemer.
+[^166]: **4:14** **who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemer** (**L**: *who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemer* | **S**: *for giving you a man to preserve your family today*) The women praised God for providing a kinsman-redeemer for Naomi. In this context, the word **left** means to allow something to be mission or absent. For **kinsman-redeemer**, see note on 2:20. When God redeems his people, he does not leave them in their sinful condition. God intervenes in the situation of sinful humans to save and rescue them from sin, death, and punishment. Translate **who has not left you today without a kinsman-redeemer** to mean God did not allow Naomi and Ruth to be without a kinsman-redeemer.
 
-[^ ]: **4:14** **May his name be renowned in Israel** (**L**: *May his name be renowned in Israel!* | **S**: *We desire that people throughout Israel will know his name*). The women wanted Ruth's son to become well-known and respected in the nation of Israel. For **renowned**, see note on 4:11. This is a blessing, stating that the women desire Naomi’s grandson to have a good reputation and character. God redeems his people by sending his own son, Jesus. Christians throughout the world praise Jesus for redeeming them. Translate **May his name be renowned in Israel** as a request for Ruth's son to become well-known and respected by Israelites.
+[^167]: **4:14** **May his name be renowned in Israel** (**L**: *May his name be renowned in Israel!* | **S**: *We desire that people throughout Israel will know his name*). The women wanted Ruth's son to become well-known and respected in the nation of Israel. For **renowned**, see note on 4:11. This is a blessing, stating that the women desire Naomi’s grandson to have a good reputation and character. God redeems his people by sending his own son, Jesus. Christians throughout the world praise Jesus for redeeming them. Translate **May his name be renowned in Israel** as a request for Ruth's son to become well-known and respected by Israelites.
 
-[^ ]: **4:15** **May he be for you a restorer of life** (**L**: *he will be for you a restorer of life* | **S**: *he will make you feel young again*). The women wanted Naomi to become joyful and full of life once again. The term **restorer** refers to someone who repairs or fixes something so that it is in its original condition. The phrase **restorer of life** refers to how Naomi will again experience joy and hope in her life due to having this grandson. This phrase is about Ruth's child, but it also describes the work Jesus does when he redeems people. When God redeems his people, he restores their lives. Translate **May he be for you a restorer of life** as a request for God to cause Naomi to enjoy life with good things as she did many years ago. 
+[^168]: **4:15** **May he be for you a restorer of life** (**L**: *he will be for you a restorer of life* | **S**: *he will make you feel young again*). The women wanted Naomi to become joyful and full of life once again. The term **restorer** refers to someone who repairs or fixes something so that it is in its original condition. The phrase **restorer of life** refers to how Naomi will again experience joy and hope in her life due to having this grandson. This phrase is about Ruth's child, but it also describes the work Jesus does when he redeems people. When God redeems his people, he restores their lives. Translate **May he be for you a restorer of life** as a request for God to cause Naomi to enjoy life with good things as she did many years ago. 
 
-[^ ]: **4:15** **a nourisher of your old age** (**L**: *a nourisher of your old age* | **S**: *he will take care of you when you become old*) The women wanted Naomi to live well and to live long as she aged. The term **nourisher** describes a person who provides for and sustains others by caring for them. When God redeems his people, he sustains them and provides for them. Translate **a nourisher of your old age** to mean Ruth's son would care for Naomi when she was old.
+[^169]: **4:15** **a nourisher of your old age** (**L**: *a nourisher of your old age* | **S**: *he will take care of you when you become old*) The women wanted Naomi to live well and to live long as she aged. The term **nourisher** describes a person who provides for and sustains others by caring for them. When God redeems his people, he sustains them and provides for them. Translate **a nourisher of your old age** to mean Ruth's son would care for Naomi when she was old.
 
-[^ ]: **4:15** **who is better to you than seven sons** (**L**: *she who is better to you than seven sons* | **S**: *who has been better to you than if you had seven sons*) The women say that Ruth is more valuable to Naomi than if she had seven sons. Seven represented the idea of completeness or perfection. This is a way to praise Ruth for how she has provided for Naomi by bearing a grandson for her by Boaz when Naomi’s sons could not provide for her because they had died. When God redeems his people, he provides more for his people than they can imagine. Translate **who is better to you than seven sons** to mean Ruth is worth more to Naomi than many sons.
+[^170]: **4:15** **who is better to you than seven sons** (**L**: *she who is better to you than seven sons* | **S**: *who has been better to you than if you had seven sons*) The women say that Ruth is more valuable to Naomi than if she had seven sons. Seven represented the idea of completeness or perfection. This is a way to praise Ruth for how she has provided for Naomi by bearing a grandson for her by Boaz when Naomi’s sons could not provide for her because they had died. When God redeems his people, he provides more for his people than they can imagine. Translate **who is better to you than seven sons** to mean Ruth is worth more to Naomi than many sons.
 
-18 Now these were the descendants[^ ] of Perez: Perez became the father of Hezron, 19 Hezron became the father of Ram, Ram became the father of Amminadab, 20 Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon became the father of Salmon, 21 Salmon became the father of Boaz, Boaz became the father of Obed, 22 Obed became the father of Jesse, and Jesse became the father of David.[^]
+18 Now these were the descendants[^171] of Perez: Perez became the father of Hezron, 19 Hezron became the father of Ram, Ram became the father of Amminadab, 20 Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon became the father of Salmon, 21 Salmon became the father of Boaz, Boaz became the father of Obed, 22 Obed became the father of Jesse, and Jesse became the father of David.[^172]
 
-[^ ]: **4:18** **these were the descendants** (**L**: *these are the generations* | **S**: *Here is a list of the descendants*) This is a list of Perez's descendants. The word **descendants** describes people born in a family lineage over subsequent generations. Translate **these were the descendants** to mean the following people were born in the lineage of Perez.
+[^171]: **4:18** **these were the descendants** (**L**: *these are the generations* | **S**: *Here is a list of the descendants*) This is a list of Perez's descendants. The word **descendants** describes people born in a family lineage over subsequent generations. Translate **these were the descendants** to mean the following people were born in the lineage of Perez.
 
-[^ ]: **4:18-22** **Perez ... Hezron ... Ram ... Amminadab ... Nahshon ... Salmon ... Boaz ... Obed ... Jesse ... David** These are the names descendants of Perez.
+[^172]: **4:18-22** **Perez ... Hezron ... Ram ... Amminadab ... Nahshon ... Salmon ... Boaz ... Obed ... Jesse ... David** These are the names descendants of Perez.
 
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