Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman's part: but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, as the LORD liveth: lie down until the morning.

RUTH 3:13KJV
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Ruth 3:13 (KJV)

What does Ruth 3:13 mean?

Ruth 3:13 shows Boaz telling Ruth to stay the night and promising that, if the closer relative will not act as her kinsman-redeemer, Boaz himself will do so, swearing by the LORD. Boaz asks Ruth to wait until morning, assuring her that her situation will be resolved honorably and soon.

In this verse, Boaz is speaking to Ruth at the threshing floor after she has asked him to act as her kinsman-redeemer—a family protector under Israelite law. Boaz explains that there is another relative with a closer claim but promises to take responsibility himself if the other man will not. Boaz’s words show his integrity and his respect for both Ruth and the customs of their people.

The Hebrew behind Ruth 3:13

  • גֹּאֵל (go'el, "kinsman"): This word refers to a family redeemer, someone with the duty to protect and restore a relative in need. Boaz uses it repeatedly, highlighting the legal and relational responsibility at the heart of Ruth’s request.
  • חַי־יְהוָה (chai-YHWH, "as the LORD liveth"): Boaz swears by the living LORD, making his promise solemn and binding. This phrase underscores the seriousness with which he takes his word and the situation.
  • לִין (lin, "tarry"/"lie down"): Boaz tells Ruth to stay the night, which is a practical protection for her safety and reputation, showing his care and discretion.

Why Ruth 3:13 matters

  • Ruth 3:13 clarifies that Boaz is not acting impulsively or selfishly; he is following the proper process and respecting the rights of the closer relative.
  • The verse highlights Boaz’s character—his willingness to help, his honesty, and his faithfulness to God’s law—making him a model of integrity.
  • This moment sets up the resolution of Ruth’s story, showing that her future will be decided openly and justly, not in secret or haste.

Where else these words appear

“will” Hebrew H2654 · used in 71 verses

  • Genesis 34:19 And the young man deferred not to do the thing, because he had delight in Jacob's daughter: and he was more honourable than all the house of his father.
  • Job 21:14 Therefore they say unto God, Depart from us; for we desire not the knowledge of thy ways.
  • Song of Solomon 2:7 I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please.

“Tarry” Hebrew H3885 · used in 79 verses

  • Genesis 19:2 And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night.
  • Joshua 3:1 And Joshua rose early in the morning; and they removed from Shittim, and came to Jordan, he and all the children of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over.
  • Job 17:2 Are there not mockers with me? and doth not mine eye continue in their provocation?

“kinsman” Hebrew H1350 · used in 84 verses

  • Genesis 48:16 The Angel which redeemed me from all evil, bless the lads; and let my name be named on them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth.
  • Joshua 20:3 That the slayer that killeth any person unawares and unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.
  • Isaiah 41:14 Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.