## It came about that ##

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

## at midnight ##

"in the middle of the night"

## was startled ##

It is not clear what startled Boaz. Perhaps he suddenly felt the cold air on his feet.

## a woman lay at his feet ##

The woman was Ruth, but Boaz could not recognize her in the darkness.

## your female servant ##

Ruth spoke with humility to Boaz.

## Spread your cloak over ##

This was apparently a cultural idiom that meant "marry me." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

## near kinsman ##

a close relative with special responsibilities toward their extended family.