Ruth 3:14 (KJV)

What does Ruth 3:14 mean?

Ruth 3:14 describes Ruth staying at Boaz’s feet until morning, then leaving quietly before anyone could recognize her. Boaz instructs that no one should know a woman had come to the threshing floor that night.

This scene takes place at the threshing floor, where Ruth has come to Boaz at Naomi’s suggestion. Ruth lies at Boaz’s feet as a sign of humility and request for protection, but both act with care to protect Ruth’s reputation. Boaz’s words show his concern for Ruth’s honor and the importance of discretion in their culture.

The Hebrew behind Ruth 3:14

• "Lay" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word means to lie down, and here it emphasizes that Ruth remained at Boaz’s feet, not beside him, highlighting propriety and restraint.
• "Feet" (מַרְגְּלוֹת, margelot): This word specifically refers to the area at Boaz’s feet, reinforcing Ruth’s humble position and the non-romantic nature of her actions.
• "Before one could know another" (טֶרֶם יַכִּיר אִישׁ אֶת רֵעֵהוּ, terem yakir ish et re’ehu): This phrase means before it was light enough for people to recognize each other, showing Ruth left very early to avoid gossip or misunderstanding.
• "Let it not be known" (אַל יִוָּדַע, al yivada): Boaz’s instruction uses a strong word for “to know,” underlining his desire to protect Ruth’s reputation from any suspicion.

Why Ruth 3:14 matters

• Ruth 3:14 clarifies that Ruth and Boaz acted honorably, countering any suspicion that something improper happened during the night.
• The verse highlights Boaz’s protective character and his sensitivity to Ruth’s vulnerability as a foreign woman in Bethlehem.
• This moment sets the stage for the rest of the story, showing the careful steps both Ruth and Boaz take to follow cultural expectations and preserve integrity.