Ruth 3:17 (KJV)

What does Ruth 3:17 mean?

Ruth 3:17 describes Ruth telling Naomi that Boaz gave her six measures of barley and instructed her not to return to her mother-in-law empty-handed. The verse highlights Boaz’s generosity and care for both Ruth and Naomi by ensuring they have food to take home.

In this scene, Ruth is speaking to Naomi after her nighttime visit to Boaz at the threshing floor. Ruth explains that Boaz not only provided her with a generous amount of barley but also specifically told her not to go back to Naomi without something to offer. This action shows Boaz’s thoughtfulness and his respect for Naomi’s well-being, as well as his ongoing kindness to Ruth.

The Hebrew behind Ruth 3:17

• "Empty" (רֵיקָם, rêqām): This word means "without anything" or "empty-handed." Boaz’s instruction for Ruth not to return "empty" to Naomi echoes Naomi’s earlier lament in Ruth 1:21 about returning from Moab "empty," showing a reversal of her misfortune.
• "Barley" (שְׂעֹרִים, s'ôrîm): The specific mention of barley, a staple food, emphasizes the practical care Boaz is showing. It is not just a symbolic gesture but real provision for daily needs.
• "Gave" (נָתַן, nathan): This word means "to give." The use here underscores Boaz’s active generosity—he is not just permitting Ruth to take barley, but is deliberately giving it to her.

Why Ruth 3:17 matters

• Ruth 3:17 connects Boaz’s actions to Naomi’s earlier sense of emptiness, showing that her fortunes are beginning to change through Ruth’s relationship with Boaz.
• The verse highlights Boaz’s character as someone who looks out for the vulnerable, not only Ruth but also Naomi, reinforcing the theme of kindness (חֶסֶד, chesed) that runs through the book.
• Ruth’s report to Naomi sets up the next steps in the story, showing that Boaz is taking responsibility and that something significant is unfolding in their lives.