Bible

Ruth

Chapter 1

¹ It happened in the days when the judges ruled that there was a famine in the land, and a certain man of Bethlehem of Judah went to live as a foreigner in the country of Moab with his wife and his two sons. ² The name of the man was Elimelek, and the name of his wife was Naomi. The names of his two sons were Mahlon and Kilion, who were Ephrathites of Bethlehem of Judah. They arrived at the country of Moab and lived there. ³ Then Elimelek, Naomi's husband, died, and she was left alone with her two sons. ⁴ These sons took wives from the women of Moab; the name of one was Orpah, and the name of the other was Ruth. They lived there for about ten years. ⁵ Then both Mahlon and Kilion died, and the woman was left without her two sons and without her husband. ⁶ Then she arose with her daughters-in-law and returned from the country of Moab because she had heard in the country of Moab that Yahweh had provided for his people's needs by giving them food. ⁷ So she left the place where she had been with her two daughters-in-law, and they walked down the road to return to the land of Judah. ⁸ Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, "Go, return, each of you, to your mother's house. May Yahweh show kindness toward you, as you have shown kindness toward the dead and toward me. ⁹ May Yahweh grant you that you find rest, each of you in the house of another husband." Then she kissed them, and they raised their voices and cried. ¹⁰ They said to her, "No! We will return with you to your people." ¹¹ But Naomi said, "Turn back, my daughters! Why will you go with me? Do I still have sons in my womb for you, so that they may become your husbands? ¹² Turn back, my daughters, go your own way, for I am too old to have a husband. If I said, 'I hope I get a husband tonight,' and then give birth to sons, ¹³ would you therefore wait until they were grown? Would you choose not to marry a husband? No, my daughters! It is exceedingly bitter to me for your sake that the hand of Yahweh has gone out against me." ¹⁴ Then her daughters-in-law lifted up their voices and cried again. Orpah kissed her mother-in-law farewell, but Ruth held on to her.

¹⁵ Naomi said, "Listen, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods. Return with your sister-in-law." ¹⁶ But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you, to turn back from following you, for where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay; your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. ¹⁷ Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May Yahweh punish me, and even more, if anything but death ever separates us." ¹⁸ When Naomi saw that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped arguing with her.

¹⁹ So the two traveled until they came to the town of Bethlehem. It happened that when they arrived in Bethlehem, the entire town was very excited about them. The women said, "Is this Naomi?" ²⁰ But she said to them, "Do not call me Naomi. Call me Bitter, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. ²¹ I went out full, but Yahweh has brought me back again empty. So why do you call me Naomi, seeing that Yahweh has testified against me and the Almighty has afflicted me?" ²² So Naomi and Ruth the Moabite woman, her daughter-in-law, returned from the country of Moab. They came to Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest.

Ruth 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

"It happened in the days when the judges ruled"

The events of this book occur during the period of Judges. The book is concurrent with the book of Judges. To understand the historical context of the book, the translator may wish to review the book of Judges.

Special concepts in this chapter

Women without a husband or children

In the ancient Near East, if a woman lacked a husband or sons, she was considered to be in a dire circumstance. She would not have been able to provide for herself. This is why Naomi told her daughters to remarry.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Contrast

The actions of Ruth the Moabite are intended to contrast with the actions of Naomi the Jew. Ruth shows great faith in Naomi's god, while Naomi does not trust in Yahweh. (See: faith and trust)

Ruth 1:1

It happened in the days when the judges ruled that

"It happened that" was a common way of beginning to tell about something that happened. Alternate translation: "In the days when the judges ruled" or "In the days when the judges ruled, this is what happened."

in the days when the judges ruled

"during the time when judges led and governed Israel"

in the land

This refers to the land of Israel. Alternate translation: "in the land of Israel"

a certain man

"a man." This is a common way of introducing a character into a story.

Ruth 1:2

Ephrathites of Bethlehem of Judah

They were people from the tribe of Ephraim who settled at Bethlehem in the region of Judea.

Ruth 1:3

she was left alone with her two sons

"Naomi had only her two sons with her"

Ruth 1:4

took wives

"married women." This is an idiom for marrying women. They did not take women who were already married.

from the women of Moab

Naomi's sons married women who were from the tribe of Moab. The Moabites worshiped other gods.

the name of one ... the name of the other

"the name of one woman ... the name of the other woman"

ten years

Ten years after Elimelek and Naomi came to the country of Moab, their sons Mahlon and Kilion died.

Ruth 1:5

General Information:

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Ruth 1:6

she arose with her daughters-in-law and returned

The word "arose" here means that Naomi began to act, and her daughters-in-law saw her, so they began to act also. Alternate translation: "she started to return, and her daughters-in-law also returned"

she had heard in the country of Moab

"while Naomi was living in Moab she heard." It is implied that the news came from Israel. Alternate translation: "she heard from Israel while in the country of Moab"

Yahweh

This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.

had provided for his people's needs

God saw their need and provided good harvests for them.

daughters-in-law

the women who married Naomi's sons

Ruth 1:7

they walked down the road

"they walked along the road." To walk down a road is an expression for walking away.

Ruth 1:8

daughters-in-law

"sons' wives" or "sons' widows"

each of you

Naomi was talking to two people, so languages that have a dual form of "you" would use that throughout her talk.

your mother's house

"to the home of each of your mothers"

shown kindness

"demonstrated that you are loyal"

kindness

"kindness" includes the ideas of love, kindness, and faithfulness.

toward the dead

"to your husbands, who died." Naomi was referring to her two sons that died.

Ruth 1:9

grant you

"give you" or "allow you to have"

you find rest

"Rest" here includes security in marriage.

in the house of another husband

with their new husbands, not someone else's husband. This refers to both a physical house that belongs to the husband, and to the protection from shame by being married.

they raised their voices and cried

To raise the voice is an idiom for speaking loudly. The daughters cried out loud or wept bitterly.

Ruth 1:10

We will return

When Orpah and Ruth said "we," they were referring to themselves and not Naomi. So languages that have inclusive and exclusive "we" would use the exclusive form here.

with you

Here "you" is the singular form referring to Naomi.

Ruth 1:11

Why will you go with me?

This is a rhetorical question. Alternate translation: "It does not make sense for you to go with me." or "You should not go with me."

Do I still have sons in my womb for you, so that they may become your husbands?

Naomi uses this question to say she cannot have other sons for them to marry. Alternate translation: "Obviously it is not possible for me to have any more sons who could become your husbands."

Ruth 1:12

too old to have a husband

The reason a husband would be important can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "too old to marry again and bear more children"

give birth to sons

"bear children" or "deliver baby boys"

Ruth 1:13

would you therefore wait until they were grown? Would you choose not to marry a husband?

These are rhetorical questions, which do not expect an answer. Alternate translation: "you would not wait until they were grown up so that you could marry them. You would choose to marry a husband now."

It is exceedingly bitter to me

Bitterness is a metaphor for grief, and what grieves her can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "It greatly grieves me that you have no husbands"

the hand of Yahweh has gone out against me

The word "hand" refers to Yahweh's power or influence. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has caused terrible things to happen to me"

Ruth 1:14

lifted up their voices and cried

This means that they cried out loud or wept bitterly.

Ruth held on to her

"Ruth clung to her." Alternate translation: "Ruth refused to leave her" or "Ruth would not leave her"

Ruth 1:15

Listen, your sister-in-law

"Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important, your sister-in-law"

your sister-in-law

"the wife of your husband's brother" or "Orpah"

her gods

Before Orpah and Ruth married Naomi's sons, they worshiped the gods of Moab. During their marriage, they began to worship Naomi's God.

Ruth 1:16

where you stay

"where you live"

your people will be my people

Ruth is referring to Naomi's people, the Israelites. Alternate translation: "I will consider the people of your country as being my own people" or "I will consider your relatives as my own relatives"

Ruth 1:17

Where you die, I will die

This refers to Ruth's desire to spend the rest of her life living in the same place and town as Naomi.

May Yahweh punish me, and even more, if

This refers to Ruth asking God to punish her if she does not do what she said like the english idiom "God forbid, if."

Ruth 1:18

she stopped arguing with her

"Naomi stopped arguing with Ruth"

Ruth 1:19

It happened

"It came about." This is used here to mark a new part of the story with new people.

the entire town

The "town" refer to the people who live there. Alternate translation: "everyone in the town"

Is this Naomi?

Since it has been many years since Naomi lived in Bethlehem and no longer has her husband and two sons, it is likely the women were expressing doubt as to if this woman was actually Naomi. Treat this as a real question, not a rhetorical question.

Ruth 1:20

Do not call me Naomi

The name "Naomi" means "my delight." Since Naomi lost her husband and sons, she no longer feels her life matches her name.

Bitter

This is a translation of the meaning of the name. It is also often translated according to its sound as "Mara."

Ruth 1:21

I went out full, but Yahweh has brought me back again empty

When Naomi left Bethlehem, her husband and two sons were living, and she was happy. Naomi blames Yahweh for the death of her husband and sons, saying that he has caused her to return to Bethlehem without them, and now she is bitter and unhappy.

testified against me

Another possible meaning is "judged me guilty."

has afflicted me

"has brought calamity on me" or "has brought tragedy to me"

Ruth 1:22

So Naomi and Ruth

This begins a summary statement. English marks this by the word "so." Determine how your language marks concluding or summary statements and do the same.

at the beginning of the barley harvest

The phrase "the barley harvest" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "when the farmers were just beginning to harvest barley"

Chapter 2

¹ Now Naomi had a relative of her husband, a man of great wealth of the clan of Elimelek, and his name was Boaz. ² Ruth, the Moabite woman, said to Naomi, "Now let me go and glean what remains among the ears of grain in the fields. I will follow anyone in whose eyes I will find favor." So Naomi said to her, "Go, my daughter." ³ Ruth went and gleaned what remained in the fields after they had harvested it. She happened to come to the portion of the fields belonging to Boaz, who was of the clan of Elimelek. ⁴ Behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem and said to the reapers, "May Yahweh be with you." They answered him, "May Yahweh bless you." ⁵ Then Boaz said to his servant who was supervising the reapers, "What man does this young woman belong to?" ⁶ The servant supervising the reapers answered and said, "It is the young Moabite woman who came back with Naomi from the land of Moab. ⁷ She said to me, 'Please let me glean and gather among the bundles of cut grain after the reapers.' So she came here and has continued from the morning until now, except that she rested a little in the house." ^[1]

⁸ Then Boaz said to Ruth, "Are you not listening to me, my daughter? Do not go and glean in another field; do not leave my field. Instead, stay here 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 young men have drawn." ¹⁰ Then she fell on her face before Boaz and bowed 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. 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."

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 glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, "Let her glean even among the bundles of cut grain, and do not humiliate her. ¹⁶ Also pull out for her some ears of grain from the bundles, and leave them for her to glean, and do not rebuke her."

¹⁷ So she gleaned in the field until evening. Then she beat out the ears of grain that she had gleaned, 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 gleaned. 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 was concerned about 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 they do not harm you in another 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.

Footnotes

2:7 ^[1]Some modern translations read

Ruth 2 General Notes

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

"Do not go and glean in another field"

Boaz said this because he could not guarantee their safety in another person's field. It is assumed that not everyone was as gracious and obedient to the law of Moses as Boaz.

Ruth 2:1

Now Naomi had a relative of her husband

This phrase introduces new information before the story continues. Your language may have a way to introduce new information.

a man of great wealth

"a prominent, wealthy man." This means that Boaz was prosperous and well known in his community, with a good reputation.

Ruth 2:2

Ruth, the Moabite woman

Here the story resumes. You need to see how your language restarts a story after a break.

the Moabite woman

This is another way of saying the woman was from the country or tribe of Moab.

Now

"Please." This word shows that Ruth was making a polite request.

glean what remains among the ears of grain

"gather kernels of grain left behind by the harvesters" or "pick up kernels of grain left behind by the harvesters"

the ears

"the heads" or "the stalks." The "ears" are the parts of a grain plant that contain the grain.

in whose eyes I will find favor

The phrase "found favor" is an idiom which means to be approved of by someone. Ruth speaks of gaining someone's favor as gaining permission or approval. Also, the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts and judgement. Alternate translation: "who will grant me permission to glean"

daughter

Ruth was caring for Naomi as if she were her own mother. Make sure it is possible in your language to use this word for someone who is not an actual daughter.

Ruth 2:3

She happened to come

Ruth was not aware that the field she picked to glean in belonged to Naomi's relative Boaz.

Ruth 2:4

Behold, Boaz

The word "behold" alerts us to the important event of Boaz arriving at the field. Your language may also have a specific way of introducing important events or characters.

came from Bethlehem

The fields were an unspecified distance outside of Bethlehem.

bless you

"give you good things" or "make you happy"

Ruth 2:5

What man does this young woman belong to?

Possible meanings are 1) Boaz was asking about Ruth's husband or 2) Boaz was asking about Ruth's parents or current guardians.

was supervising

"was in charge of" or "was managing"

Ruth 2:6

General Information:

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Ruth 2:7

glean and gather

You may need to make explicit that Ruth would be gathering grain. Alternate translation: "glean and gather grain"

the house

"the hut" or "the shelter." This was a temporary shelter or garden hut in the field that provided shade from the sun.

Ruth 2:8

Are you not listening to me, my daughter

This rhetorical question can be reworded as a command. Alternate translation: "Listen to me, my daughter" or "Note well what I am telling you, my daughter"

my daughter

This was a kind way of addressing a younger woman. Ruth was not the actual daughter of Boaz, so make sure the translation of this does not make it sound like she was.

Ruth 2:9

Keep your eyes only on the field

The eyes represent watching something or paying attention to something. Alternate translation: "Watch only the field" or "Pay attention only to the field"

Have I not instructed the men ... you?

Boaz used this question to emphasize what he had already done to help Ruth. Alternate translation: "I have given the men strict instructions ... you."

men ... the other women

"young male workers ... young female workers." The word "men" is used three times to refer to the young men who are harvesting in the field. Some languages can say this using one word, and they have a different word that means young women workers.

not to touch you

Possible meanings are 1) the men were not to harm Ruth or 2) the men were not to stop her from gleaning in his field.

the water that the young men have drawn

To draw water means to pull up water from a well or to take it out of a storage vessel.

young men

You may need to make explicit that these were Boaz's servants, as do many versions. Alternate translation: "servants"

Ruth 2:10

she fell on her face before Boaz and bowed to the ground

This hendiadys describes an act of respect and reverence. She was showing honor to Boaz out of gratefulness for what he had done for her by kneeling or lying on the ground and putting her face on the ground. It was also a posture of humility. Alternate translation: "she bowed before Boaz with her face to the ground" (See: and [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/translate-symaction])

bowed to the ground

Some modern translations read, "lay on the ground."

Why have I found such favor ... a foreigner?

Ruth is asking a real question.

foreigner

Ruth had pledged her loyalty to the God of Israel in private, but she was known publicly as "the Moabitess."

Ruth 2:11

It has been reported to me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People have reported to me" or "People have told me"

to come to a people

Boaz is referring to Ruth coming to dwell with Naomi in a village and community, a country, and religion she did not know.

Ruth 2:12

reward you

"repay you" or "pay you back"

for your deed

This is an act of faith, choosing to live with Naomi in Bethlehem and trusting Naomi's God.

May you receive full payment from Yahweh

This is a poetic expression that is very similar to the previous sentence. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh give back to you even more than you have given"

under whose wings you have found refuge

Boaz uses the picture of a mother bird gathering her chicks under her wings to protect them, in order to describe God's protection for those who trust in him. Alternate translation: "in whose safe care you have placed yourself"

Ruth 2:13

Let me find favor in your eyes

Here "find favor" is an idiom that means be approved of or that he is pleased with her. Here "eyes" are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing his evaluation. Alternate translation: "Please accept me"

I am not one of your female servants

Possible meanings are 1) Ruth was not one of Boaz's female servants or 2) Ruth did not think her marriage to Naomi's son granted her any privilege in Bethlehem.

Ruth 2:14

At mealtime

This refers to the noontime meal.

dip your morsel in the wine vinegar

This was a simple meal eaten in the field. People would sit on the ground around a cloth that had a bowl of wine vinegar on it and plates of broken bread. They would dip their bread in the vinegar bowl to wet it and add flavor before they ate it.

wine vinegar

a sauce that bread was dipped in. The Israelites further fermented some of their wine to make vinegar.

Ruth 2:15

As she got up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men

In the context of the commands, it is likely that Ruth was far enough away not to hear Boaz's instructions. Alternate translation: "And when Ruth got up to glean, Boaz privately told his young men"

As she got up

"As she stood up"

even among the bundles

Here "even" denotes "above and beyond what one normally does." Boaz instructs his workers to let Ruth glean around the bundles of grain. People who were gleaning were normally forbidden from working that close to the harvested grain.

Ruth 2:16

pull out for her some ears of grain from the bundles

"take some stalks of grain out of the bundles and leave them for her" or "leave behind stalks of grain for her to collect"

do not rebuke her

"do not cause her shame" or "do not dishonor her"

Ruth 2:17

beat out

She separated the edible part of the grain from the hull and stalk, which is thrown away.

ears of grain

This refers to the eatable part of the grain.

about an ephah of barley

An ephah is a unit of measurement equal to about 22 liters. Alternate translation: "about 22 liters of barley"

Ruth 2:18

She lifted it up and went into the city

It is implied that Ruth carried the grain home.

her mother-in-law saw

"Naomi saw"

Ruth 2:19

Where have you gleaned today? Where did you go to work?

Naomi said almost the same thing in two different ways to show that she was very interested in knowing what had happened to Ruth that day.

Ruth 2:20

he be blessed by Yahweh

Naomi is asking God to reward Boaz for his kindness to Ruth and herself.

who has not left off his loyalty

"who has continued to be loyal." Possible meanings are 1) Boaz remembered his obligations to Naomi as a family member or 2) Naomi is referring to Yahweh, who was acting through Boaz or 3) Yahweh has continued to be faithful to the living and the dead.

to the living

"to the people who are still living." Naomi and Ruth were the "living."

the dead

Naomi's husband and sons were the "dead." This can be stated differently to remove the nominal adjective "the dead." Alternate translation: "the people who have already died"

near of kin to us, one of our kinsman-redeemers

The second phrase repeats and expands the first. This is a Hebrew style of emphasis.

kinsman-redeemers

A kinsman-redeemer was a close male relative who could rescue a childless widow from financial ruin by marrying her and having a child with her. He would also reacquire the land his relatives had lost due to poverty and redeem family members who had sold themselves into slavery.

Ruth 2:21

Indeed, he said to me

"He even said to me." This indicates that what follows is the most important part of Boaz's words to Ruth.

keep close to my young men

Boaz was referring to the physical protection his men can provide her.

Ruth 2:22

go out with

"work with"

they do not harm you in another field

You may need to make explicit that Naomi was afraid men would harm Ruth or to translate in passive form. Alternate translation: "the men in another field do not harm you" or "you are not harmed in some other field"

Ruth 2:23

she stayed close

Ruth worked in Boaz's fields with his workers during the day, so she would be safe.

She lived with her mother-in-law

Ruth went to Naomi's home to sleep at night.

Chapter 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. ^[1]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 explain to you what to do." ⁵ Ruth said to Naomi, "I will do everything you say."

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 near kinsman." ¹⁰ Boaz said, "My daughter, may you be blessed by Yahweh. You have made your latest kindness better than the first, 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, but there is a kinsman nearer than I. ¹³ Stay here tonight, and in the morning, if he will perform for you the duty of a kinsman, good, let him do the kinsman's duty. 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."

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."

Footnotes

3:3 ^[1]The copies of the ancient Hebrew text have,

Ruth 3 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Boaz's integrity

Boaz showed great integrity in this chapter by not having sexual relations with Ruth. He was also concerned with how people would see Ruth if they caught her in this position. Boaz's character is important for this story.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

"So that things may go well for you"

Naomi attempted to make Ruth desirable to Boaz so that he would want to marry her. Even though she was a Gentile by birth, Boaz could marry her because she was, by marriage, Naomi's daughter.

Ruth 3:1

mother-in-law

Naomi is the mother of Ruth's dead husband.

My daughter

Ruth became Naomi's daughter by marrying her son and further by her actions in caring for Naomi after returning to Bethlehem.

should I not seek a place for you to rest ... for you?

Naomi uses this question to tell Ruth what she planned to do. Alternate translation: "I must look for a place for you to rest ... for you." or "I must find a husband to care for you ... for you."

a place for you to rest

Possible meanings are 1) literally in finding a house for her to live in or 2) figuratively in finding a husband to care for her. Naomi probably had both senses in mind.

Ruth 3:2

female workers you have been with

The translation can make explicit that she was working in the fields with these female workers. Alternate translation: "female workers you have been with in the fields"

is he not our kinsman?

Naomi probably used this question to remind Ruth of something she had already told her. Alternate translation: "he is our relative."

Look

This term indicates that the following statement is very important.

winnowing

To winnow means to separate grain from the unwanted chaff by tossing both the grain and chaff into the air, allowing the wind to blow the chaff away.

Ruth 3:3

anoint yourself

This is probably a reference to rubbing sweet-smelling oil on oneself, much as women put on perfume today.

go down to the threshing floor

This refers to leaving the city and heading to the threshing area.

Ruth 3:4

uncover his feet

This means to remove the cloak or blanket covering his feet so that they would be exposed to the cold.

lie down there

"lie down at his feet"

Then he will explain to you what to do

The specific custom of that time is unclear, but this is usually understood as a culturally acceptable way for a woman to tell a man that she was willing to marry him. Boaz would understand the custom and accept or reject her offer.

Then he will

"When he wakes up, he will"

Ruth 3:5

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Ruth 3:6

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Ruth 3:7

his heart was merry

Here Boaz is referred to by his heart. It does not imply Boaz was overly drunk. Alternate translation: "he was satisfied" or "he was in a good mood"

she came softly

"she sneaked in" or "she came in quietly so no one would hear her"

uncovered his feet

"removed his blanket from his feet"

lay down

"lay down at his feet"

Ruth 3:8

It came about

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.

He turned over

He looked to see what startled him.

a woman was lying at his feet

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

Ruth 3:9

your female servant

Ruth spoke with humility to Boaz.

Spread your cloak over your female servant

This was a cultural idiom for marriage. Alternate translation: "Marry me"

near kinsman

a close relative with special responsibilities toward their extended family

Ruth 3:10

You have made your latest kindness better than the first

"You have shown me even more kindness now than you did before"

your latest kindness

This refers to Ruth asking Boaz to marry her. By marrying Naomi's relative, Ruth would provide for Naomi and demonstrate great kindness to Naomi.

because you have not gone after

"you have not pursued marriage with." Ruth could have ignored Naomi's need and looked for a husband for herself outside of Naomi's relatives.

Ruth 3:11

my daughter

Boaz used this expression as a sign of respect toward Ruth as a younger woman.

all the city of my people knows

Bethlehem is a town, or small city, that belonged to the tribe that Boaz belonged to. Here "city" represents the people who live in that city. Alternate translation: "all the people in the city know" or "everyone in town knows"

Ruth 3:12

kinsman nearer than I

It was the duty of the closest male relative to help the widow.

Ruth 3:13

if he will perform for you the duty of a kinsman

Boaz is referring to the expectation that the closest male relative of Ruth's dead husband would marry her and help carry on his family name.

by the life of Yahweh

"as surely as Yahweh lives." This was a common Hebrew vow.

Ruth 3:14

she lay at his feet

Ruth slept at Boaz' feet. They did not have sex.

before anyone could recognize another person

This time of day can be spoken of in terms of darkness. Alternate translation: "while it was still dark"

Ruth 3:15

shawl

a piece of cloth worn over the shoulders

six large measures of barley

The actual amount is not stated. It was enough to be considered generous, yet small enough for Ruth to carry alone. Some think it was about 30 kilograms.

put the load on her

The amount of grain was so great that Ruth needed help picking it up to carry it.

Then he went into the city

Most ancient copies have "he went," but some have "she went." There are English versions with both. The better choice is "he went."

Ruth 3:16

How did you do, my daughter?

What Ruth meant by this question can be made more clear. Alternate translation: "What happened, my daughter?" or "How did Boaz act toward you?"

all that the man had done

"all that Boaz had done"

Ruth 3:17

Do not go empty

"Do not go empty-handed" or "Do not go with nothing" or "Be sure to take something"

Ruth 3:18

finished this thing

This refers to the decision about who will buy Naomi's property and marry Ruth.

Chapter 4

¹ Now Boaz went up to the gate and sat down there. Soon, the near kinsman 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 near kinsman, "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 uncover your ears 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 near kinsman said, "I cannot redeem it for myself without destroying my own inheritance. You take my right of redemption for yourself, for I cannot redeem it."

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 sandal and gave it to his neighbor; this was the manner of making legal agreements in Israel. ⁸ So the near kinsman 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."

¹³ So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. He went to her, and Yahweh enabled her to conceive, and she bore a son. ¹⁴ The women said to Naomi, "May Yahweh be blessed, who has not left you today without a near kinsman, this baby. May his name be famous 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.

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.

Ruth 4 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

King David

Despite being a Moabitess, Ruth became an ancestor of David. David was Israel's greatest king. It is shocking a Gentile would become a part of such an important lineage. She had great faith in Yahweh. (See: and faith)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

"You must also take Ruth the Moabitess"

Because Naomi had no son, her daughter-in-law Ruth needed to be provided for. Therefore, the relative who wanted to use her land had to also help Ruth to have a son who would come to provide for her.

"This was the custom in former times"

This is a comment made by the writer of the text. He functions as a narrator in this instance. It indicates that there was a considerable period of time between the events that occurred and the time they were written down.

Ruth 4:1

the gate

"the gate of the city" or "the gate of Bethlehem." This was the main entrance to the walled town of Bethlehem. There was an open area by the gate that was used as a meeting place to discuss community matters.

the near kinsman

This was the closest living relative to Elimelek.

came over

stopped going to where he had planned to go and went toward Boaz

Ruth 4:2

elders of the city

"leaders of the city"

Ruth 4:3

Naomi ... is selling the parcel of land

It was the responsibility of the kinsman to buy back his relative's land and to care for his family. In this case, it meant the man must buy Naomi's land, marry Ruth, and care for Naomi.

Ruth 4:4

uncover your ears

"inform you"

in the presence of

This would make the transaction legal and binding.

redeem it

This meant to buy the land to keep it within their family.

I am after you

Boaz was the next kinsman in line to redeem the land.

Ruth 4:5

On the day that you buy ... you must also

Boaz uses this expression to inform his relative of the additional responsibility he will have if he buys the land.

from the hand of Naomi

Here the word "hand" represents Naomi, who owns the field. Alternate translation: "from Naomi"

you must also take Ruth

"you must also marry Ruth"

Ruth ... the widow of a dead man

"Ruth ... the widow of Elimelek's son"

to raise up the name of the dead

"that she may have a son to inherit the property and carry on the name of her dead husband"

Ruth 4:6

destroying my own inheritance

He would have to give some of his own wealth to the children that Ruth might bear.

You take my right of redemption for yourself

"You redeem it yourself" or "You yourself redeem it instead of me"

Ruth 4:7

Now this was the custom

The writer of the book explains of the custom of exchange during the time of Ruth.

in former times

"in earlier times." This implies that the customs had changed from when the story took place until the book was written.

his neighbor

This refers to the person with whom he was making the agreement. In this situation the near kinsman gave Boaz his shoe.

Ruth 4:8

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Ruth 4:9

to the elders and to all the people

This refers to all the people who were present at the meeting place, not to everyone in the town.

all that was Elimelek's and all that was Kilion's and Mahlon's

This refers to all the land and possessions of Naomi's dead husband and sons.

from the hand of Naomi

The hand of Naomi represents Naomi. She was responsible for the money exchange. Alternate translation: "from Naomi"

Ruth 4:10

in order that I might raise up the name of the dead man on his inheritance

The first son that Ruth bore would be legally considered Mahlon's son and would inherit the land that Boaz bought from Naomi. Alternate translation: "so that I might give her a son who will inherit the dead man's property"

so that his name will not be cut off from among his brothers and from the gate of his place

Being forgotten is spoken of as if one's name were being cut off from a list of people who had lived earlier. Alternate translation: "so that he will not be forgotten by his brothers' descendants and the people of this town"

the gate of his place

The gate of the town is where important legal decisions were made, such as decisions about who owns a piece of land.

Ruth 4:11

people who were in the gate

"people who were meeting together near the gate"

come into your house

This has literal and figurative meaning. As Ruth marries Boaz, she will move into his house. House can also refer to becoming part of Boaz's family by being his wife.

like Rachel and Leah

These were the two wives of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel.

built up the house of Israel

"bore many children who became the nation of Israel"

may you prosper in Ephrathah

Ephrathah is the name of the clan to which Boaz belonged in Bethlehem.

Ruth 4:12

May your house be like

God abundantly blessed Judah through his son Perez. The people were asking God to bless Boaz in a similar way through Ruth's children.

Tamar bore to Judah

Tamar was also a widow. Judah fathered a son with her, which continued the family name.

through the offspring that Yahweh will give you

Yahweh would give Boaz children through Ruth.

Ruth 4:13

Boaz took Ruth

"Boaz married Ruth" or "Boaz took Ruth as a wife"

He went to her

This is a polite way of saying that he had sexual relations. Alternate translation: "He had sexual relations with her" or "He lay with her"

Ruth 4:14

who has not left you today without a near kinsman

This phrase can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: "who has provided you today with a near kinsman"

May his name be famous

This refers to the reputation and character of Naomi's grandson.

Ruth 4:15

a restorer of life

This phrase probably refers to how Naomi will again experience joy and hope in her life as a result of having a new grandson. Alternate translation: "one who brings joy to you again" or "one who will make you feel young again"

a nourisher of your old age

"he will take care of you when you become old"

better to you than seven sons

"Seven" was the Hebrew number of completeness. Naomi's sons both died before they produced any offspring, but Ruth bore a grandson to Naomi by Boaz. Alternate translation: "better to you than any son"

Ruth 4:16

Naomi took the child

This refers to Naomi holding the child. Make sure it does not sound like she took him away from Ruth.

laid him in her bosom

"held him close against her chest." This is a statement of love and affection for the child.

bosom

chest, shoulders, and arms

Ruth 4:17

A son has been born to Naomi

"The child is like a son to Naomi." It was understood that the child was Naomi's grandson, not her physical son.

father of David

"father of King David." Though "king" is not stated, it was clear to the original audience that David was King David.

Ruth 4:18

the descendants of Perez

"the successive descendants." Because it was mentioned earlier that Perez was the son of Judah, the writer continues listing the family line that came from Perez.

Ruth 4:19

Hezron ... Ram

Ruth 4:20

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Ruth 4:21

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Ruth 4:22

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ULB Translation Words

Almighty

Facts:

The term "Almighty" literally means "all-powerful"; in the Bible, it always refers to God.

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Bethlehem

Facts:

Bethlehem was a small city in the land of Israel, near the city of Jerusalem. It was also known as "Ephrathah," which was probably its original name.

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Boaz

Facts:

Boaz was an Israelite man who was the husband of Ruth, the great grandfather of King David, and an ancestor of Jesus Christ.

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David

Facts:

David was the second king of Israel and he loved and served God. He was the main writer of the book of Psalms.

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Ephrathah

Related Words:

Facts:

Ephrathah was the name of a city and region in the northern part of Israel. The city of Ephrathah was also called "Ephrath," and later it was called "Bethlehem" and "Ephrathah-Bethlehem."

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God

Related Ideas:

Facts:

In the Bible, the term "God" refers to the eternal being who created the universe out of nothing. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God's personal name is "Yahweh."

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Hebrew

Facts:

The "Hebrews" were people who were descended from Abraham through the line of Isaac and Jacob. Abraham is the first person in the Bible to be called a "Hebrew."

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Israel

Related Ideas:

Facts:

The term "Israel" is the name that God gave to Jacob. It means "he struggles with God."

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Jesse

Facts:

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Judah

Facts:

Judah was one of Jacob's older sons. His mother was Leah. His descendants were called the "tribe of Judah."

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Judah

Facts:

The tribe of Judah was the largest of the twelve tribes of Israel. The kingdom of Judah was made up of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.

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Leah

Facts:

Leah was one of Jacob's wives. She was the mother of ten of Jacob's sons and their descendants were ten of the twelve tribes of Israel.

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Moab

Facts:

Moab was the son of Lot's elder daughter. Moab also became the name of the land where Moab and his family lived. The term "Moabite" refers to a person who is descended from Moab or who lives in the country of Moab.

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Rachel

Facts:

Rachel was one of Jacob's wives. She and her sister Leah were the daughters of Laban, Jacob's uncle.

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Ruth

Facts:

Ruth was a Moabite woman who lived during the time when judges were leading Israel. She married an Israelite man in Moab after he had moved there with his family because of a famine during the time when judges were leading Israel.

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Tamar

Facts:

Tamar was the name of several women in the Old Testament. It was also the name of several cities or other places in the Old Testament.

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Yahweh

Related Ideas:

Facts:

The term "Yahweh" is God's personal name that he revealed when he spoke to Moses at the burning bush.

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afflict

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "afflict" means to cause someone distress or suffering. An "affliction" is the disease, emotional grief, or other disaster that results from this.

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age

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "age" refers to the length of time a person has lived. The term "aged" describes a person who is very old. The term "age" is also used to refer generally to a time period.

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anoint

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "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. The term is also used figuratively to refer to the Holy Spirit choosing and empowering someone.

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ash

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Definitions:

The term "ash" or "ashes" refers to the grey powdery substance that is left behind after wood is burned. It is sometimes used figuratively to refer to something that is worthless or useless.

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barley

Definition:

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beg

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "beg" means to urgently ask someone for something. It often refers to asking for money, but it is also commonly used to refer to pleading for something.

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bless

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To "bless" someone or something means to cause good and beneficial things to happen to the person or thing that is being blessed.

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bow

Related Ideas:

Note

Definition:

To bow means to bend over to humbly express respect and honor toward someone. To "bow down" means to bend over or kneel down very low, often with face and hands toward the ground.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

are bent, bend, bend the knee, bow, bow down, bowed, bowed ... down, bowed ... down ... before, bowing, bowing down, bows, bows down, fall down, fell, fell down, has ... bent, have ... bent, kneel, kneeling, knelt, will bend

bread

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Definition:

Bread is a food made from flour mixed with water and oil to form a dough. The dough is then shaped into a loaf and baked.

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brother

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "brother" usually refers to a male person who shares at least one biological parent with another person.

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call

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "call to" and "call out" mean to say something loudly to someone who is not nearby. To "call" someone means to summon that person. There are also some other meanings.

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appeal to, appealed to, appealing to, call, called, called on, called out, calling, calling out, calls, calls out, invite, invited, summon, summoned, summoning

clan

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Definition:

The term "clan" refers to a group of extended family members who come from a common ancestor.

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comfort

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "comfort" and "comforter" refer to helping someone who is suffering physical or emotional pain.

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comfort, comforted, comforter, comforters, comforting, comforts, consolation, consolations, consoling, uncomforted

command

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term to "command" means to order someone to do something. A "command" or "commandment" is what the person was ordered to do.

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command, commanded, commanding, commandment, commandments, commands, forbid, forbidden, forbidding, give ... solemn command, given ... solemn commands, given an order, given orders, order, ordered, orders, requirement, solemn commands

conceive

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Definition:

The terms "conceive" and "conception" usually refer to becoming pregnant with a child. It can also be used for animals that become pregnant.

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confirm

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "confirm" and "confirmation" refer to stating or assuring that something is true or sure or trustworthy.

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carry out, cause ... to believe firmly, confirm, confirmation, confirmed, confirms, guaranteed

cut off

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The expression "cut off" literally means to use a sharp instrument to remove a part of something. This can refer to, for example, removing a limb from a tree or an arm or leg from a person, or to chopping a tree completely down.

The expression "cut off" is also used to refer to God causing a river to stop flowing.

The metaphor "cut off" refers to people or God separating a person from his nation or community either by driving him away or by killing him.

To "pluck" is to separate a part of something from the rest by pulling it off or out.

Picture of Cut Off From People:

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chop ... down, chopped ... down, cut ... down, cut ... off, cut ... out of, cut in two, cut off, cuts ... off, cutting ... off, eliminate, pluck ... out, shear, sheared, tear ... off

day

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Definition:

The term "day" literally refers to a period of time lasting 24 hours beginning at sundown. It is also used figuratively.

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death

Related Ideas:

breathed their last, dead, deadly, deadness, deathly, die, lethal, mortal, stop breathing

Definition:

This term is used to refer to both physical and spiritual death. Physically, it refers to when the physical body of a person stops living. Spiritually, it refers to sinners being separated from a holy God because of their sin.

1. Physical death

2. Spiritual death

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about to die, breathed ... last, causes ... death, dead, deadly, deadness, death, deathly, deaths, die, die with, died, dies, dying, fatal, lethal, mortal, stop breathing, stops breathing

descendant

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Definition:

A "descendant" is someone who is a direct blood relative of someone else further back in history.

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destroy

Related Ideas:

break down, bring ... to nothing, destruction, remove, cut to pieces, demolish, destroyer, destructive, downfall, overthrow, pass away, put an end to, shatter, spoil, throw down, waste away

Definition:

To destroy something is to completely make an end to it, so that it no longer exists.

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an end is put to, be destroyed, break ... down, breaking ... down, breaks ... down, bring ... to nothing, broke to pieces, broken, broken to pieces, brought ... down, brought ... to nothing, complete destruction, completely destroy, completely destroyed, crashing sound, cut ... to pieces, cut into pieces, cuts ... into pieces, demolish, destroy, destroy ... completely, destroyed, destroyer, destroyers, destroying, destroys, destruction, destructive, downfall, overthrew, overthrown, pass away, put an end to, shatter, shattered, shattering, spoil, throw down, throws ... down, thrown down, wasting away

drunk

Related Ideas:

Definitions:

The term "drunk" means to be intoxicated from drinking too much of an alcoholic beverage.

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be ... intoxicated, became drunk, become drunk, drank freely, drink much, drunk, drunkard, drunkards, drunkenness, get drunk

elder

Definition:

Elders are spiritually mature men who have responsibilities of spiritual and practical leadership among God's people.

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face

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The word "face" literally refers to the front part of a person's head. This term also has several figurative meanings.

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famine

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "famine" refers to an extreme lack of food throughout a country or region, usually due to not enough rain. The term "famished" means extremely hungry. * Food crops can fail from natural causes such as lack of rain, crop disease, or insects. * Food shortages can also be caused by people, such as enemies who destroy crops. * In the Bible, God often caused famine as a way to punish nations when they sinned against him. * In Amos 8:11 the term "famine" is used figuratively to refer to a time when God punished his people by not speaking to them. This could be translated with the word for "famine" in your language, or with a phrase such as "extreme lack" or "severe deprivation."

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father

Related Ideas:

Definition:

When used literally, the term "father" refers to a person's male parent. * A "grandfather" is someone's father's father or someone's mother's father. * A "forefather" is one of a person's male ancestors, such as his grandfather's grandfather. * An "ancestral household" is a social unit of those people who are descended from one ancestor. * A person who is "fatherless" does not have a father. * An "orphan" is a person who has no parents. In Bible times widows were often not able to care for their children, so a child with a mother but no father could also be thought of as an orphan. * To "beget" someone is to become that person's father.

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ancestor, ancestor's, ancestors, ancestors', ancestral, beget, begot, father, father's, fathered, fathering, fatherless, fathers, fathers', forefather, forefathers, grandfather, orphan, orphans

favor

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To "favor" is to prefer. When someone favors a person, he regards that person positively and does more to benefit that person than he does to benefit others.

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favor, favorable, favored, favoritism, favors, privilege, request for favor, seek ... favor, seeking the favor, show favor, shown favor, sought ... favor

fir

Definition:

A fir tree is a kind of tree that stays green all year and has cones that contain seeds.

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foreigner

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "foreigner" refers to a person living in a country that is not his own. Another name for a foreigner is an "alien."

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

alien, alienated, alienates, barbarian, foreign, foreigner, foreigners, live as a foreigner, living as foreigners, sojourn, sojourned, sojourner, sojourners, sojourning, stranger, strangers, tenant, tenants

found

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The verb "found" means build, create, or lay a base for. The phrase "founded on" means supported by or based on. A "foundation" is the base of support on which something is built or created.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

established, establishes, found, foundation, foundations, founded, founder, founds, lay ... foundation, lay ... foundations

gate

Related Ideas:

Definition:

A "gate" is a hinged barrier at an access point in a fence or wall that surrounds a house or city.

Translation Suggestions:

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

glean

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "glean" means to go through a field or orchard and pick up whatever grain or fruit the harvesters have left behind.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

god

Related Ideas:

disgusting figure, false god, goat idols, goddess, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry

Definition:

A false god is something that people worship instead of the one true God. The term "goddess" refers specifically to a female false god.

An idol is an object that people make so they can worship it. Something is described as "idolatrous" if it involves giving honor to something other than the one true God.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

disgusting figure, disgusting figures, false god, goat idols, god, goddess, gods, idol, idol's, idolater, idolaters, idolatrous, idolatry, idols, idols'

good

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The word "good" has different meanings depending on the context. Many languages will use different words to translate these different meanings.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

best, better, do ... good, fair, good, good things, goodness, goods, improved, made ... better, prefer, proper, seemed good, well

grain

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "grain" usually refers to the seed of a food plant such as wheat, barley, corn, millet, or rice. It can also refer to the whole plant.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

hand

Related Ideas:

Definition:

Translation Suggestions

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

by the hand of, fist, from the hand of, hand, handbreadth, handed, handful, handfuls, handing, hands, lay a hand on, lays his hand on

hang

Definition:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

harvest

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "harvest" refers to the gathering in of ripe fruits or vegetables from the plants on which they were growing.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heart

Related Ideas:

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "heart" is often used figuratively to refer to a person's thoughts, emotions, desires, or will.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

heir

Definition:

An "heir" is a person who legally receives property or money that belonged to a person who has died.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

hope

Definition:

Hope is strongly desiring something to happen. Hope can imply either certainty or uncertainty regarding a future event.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

house

Related Ideas:

Definition:

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

humiliate

Related Ideas:

Definitions:

The term "humiliate" means to cause someone to feel shamed or disgraced. This is usually done publicly. The act of shaming someone is called "humiliation."

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

inherit

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "inherit" refers to receiving something valuable from a parent or other person because of a special relationship with that person. The "inheritance" is what is received.

Translation Suggestions:

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

instruct

Related Ideas:

Definitions:

The terms "instruct" and "instruction" refer to giving specific directions about what to do.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

gave ... instructions, instruct, instructed, instructing, instruction, instructions, instructor, instructors, instructs

judge

Related Ideas:

act of judging, consider, decide, decision, give justice, give judgment, judgment, judgment seat

Definition:

The terms "judge" and "judgment" often refer to making a decision about whether something is morally right or wrong.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

acts of judgment, consider, considered, considering, decide, decided, decided on, decision, give justice, giving judgment, have decided, insightful decisions, judge, judged, judges, judging, judgment, judgment seat, judgments, renders judgment, will judge

judge

Definition:

A judge is a person who decides what is right or wrong when there are disputes between people, usually in matters that pertain to the law.

Bible References:

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

kin

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "kin" refers to a person's blood relatives, considered as a group. The word "kinsman" refers specifically to a male relative.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kind

Definition:

The terms "kind" and "kinds" refer to groups or classifications of things that are connected by shared characteristics.

Picture showing Kinds:

Translation Suggestions

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king

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "king" refers to a man who is the supreme ruler of a city, state, or country.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

king, king's, kingly, kings, kingship, made ... king, set up ... king, set up kings

kiss

Definition:

A kiss is an action in which one person puts his lips to another person's lips or face. This term can also be used figuratively.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

know

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To "know" means to understand something or to be aware of a fact. The expression "make known" is an expression that means to tell information.

Translation Suggestions

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

knew, know, know ... beforehand, knowing, knowledge, known, knows, made ... known, made known, make ... known, makes known, unknowingly, unknown

law

Related Ideas:

Definition:

A "law" is a legal rule that is usually written down and enforced by someone in authority. A "principle" is a guideline for decision-making and behavior.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

law, lawbreaker, lawbreakers, lawgiver, laws, lawyer, principle, principled, principles

life

Related Ideas:

alive, come to life, conduct, exist, fresh, life-giving, lifetime, live, revive, survive, survivor

Definition:

All these terms refer to being physically alive, not dead. They are also used figuratively to refer to being alive spiritually. The following discusses what is meant by "physical life" and "spiritual life."

1. Physical life

2. Spiritual life

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

alive, come to life, conduct, conducted, existed, fresh, keep ... alive, life, life-giving, lifeless, lifetime, live, lived, lives, living, revive, revived, survive, survived, survivor, survivors

Related Ideas:

according to, alike, as, as if, compare, in the same way, just as, liken, likeness, likewise, resemble, similar, similarly, unlike

Definition:

The terms "like" and "likeness" refer to something being the same as, or similar to, something else.

Translation Suggestions

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

according to, alike, as, as if, be ... like, become ... like, compare, in the same way, is ... like, just as, like, liken, likeness, likenesses, likewise, resemble, resembled, similar to, similarly, the same, the same way, unlike

lion

Related Ideas:

Definition:

A lion is a large, cat-like, that has animal, with powerful teeth and claws for killing and tearing apart its prey.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

love

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To love another person is to care for that person and do things that will benefit him. There are different meanings for "love" some languages may express using different words:

Translation Suggestions:

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

mighty

Related Ideas:

Definition:

Translation Suggestions:

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Mighty One, might, mightier, mightily, mighty, mighty host, mighty men, mighty one, mighty ones, mighty work, mighty works

name

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Definition:

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

neighbor

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "neighbor" usually refers to a person who lives nearby. It can also refer more generally to someone who lives in the same community or people group.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

oak

Related Ideas:

Definition:

An oak, or oak tree, is a tall shade tree with a large trunk and wide spreading branches.

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offspring

Definition:

The term "offspring" is a general reference to the biological descendants of people or animals.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

prosper

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "prosper" generally refers to living well and can refer to prospering physically or spiritually. When people or countryies are "prosperous," it means they are wealthy and have all that they need to be successful. They are experiencing "prosperity."

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punish

Related Ideas:

bring down judgment, deal with, inflict punishment, judgment, punishment, unpunished

Definition:

The term "punish" means to cause someone to suffer a negative consequence for doing something wrong. The term "punishment" refers to the negative consequence that is given as a result of that wrong behavior.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bring down judgment, go ... unpunished, inflicted punishment, inflicting punishment, judgment, leave ... unpunished, punish, punished, punishes, punishing, punishment, unpunished

raise

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To "rise" or "arise" means to "go up" or "get up." The terms "risen," "rose," and "arose" express past action.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

arise, arisen, arises, raise, raise up, raised, raises, raising, raising up, rise, rise up, risen, rises, rising, rose

reap

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "reap" means to harvest crops such as grain. A "reaper" is someone who harvests the crop.

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Word Data:

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rebuke

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To rebuke is to give someone a stern verbal correction, often in order to help that person turn away from sin. Such a correction is a rebuke.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

correct, corrected, correction, corrections, corrects, give correction, rebuke, rebuked, rebukes

receive

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "receive" generally means to get or accept something that is given, offered, or presented.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

abstain, receive, receive back, received, received ... in full, receiver, receives, receiving

redeem

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To "redeem" and "redemption" refer to buy back something or someone that was previously owned or held captive. "Redemption" is the action of doing that. A "redeemer" is someone who redeems something or someone.

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refuge

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "refuge" refers to a place or condition of safety and protection. A "refugee" is someone who is seeking a safe place. A "shelter" refers to a place that can protect from weather or danger.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

find refuge, refuge, refugee, refugees, shelter, sheltered, sheltering, shelters, take refuge

reign

Definition:

The term to "reign" means to rule over the people of a particular country or kingdom. The reign of a king is the time period during which he is ruling.

Bible References:

Word Data:

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renown

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "renown" refers to the greatness associated with being well known and having a praiseworthy reputation. Something or someone is "renowned" if it has renown.

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report

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term to "report" means to tell people about something that happened, often giving details about that event. A "report" is what is told, and can be spoken or written.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

account, accounts, bring ... report, brought ... news, brought ... report, gave ... a full account, give ... a full account, news, report, reported, reports, rumor, rumors, spread ... about

rest

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term to "rest" literally means to stop working. Usually it means to stop working in order to relax or regain strength. A "rest" is what someone has when he stops working. To "rest secure" is to feel safe. To "rest" an object on something means to "place" or "put" it there. An object that is "resting" somewhere is simply in that place. A boat that "comes to rest" somewhere has "stopped" or "landed" there. The phrase "the rest of" refers to the remainder of something.

Translation Suggestions:

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

at ease, be at rest, give ... rest, pause, refresh, refreshed, relief, rest, rest secure, rested, rested secure, resting, resting place, resting places, restless, rests

restore

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "restore" and "restoration" refer to causing something to return to its original and better condition.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bring back, mending, recover, restoration, restore, restored, restorer, restores, restoring, reverse

return

Definition:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

reward

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "reward" refers to what a person receives or earns because of something he has done, either good or bad. To "reward" someone is to give someone something he deserves.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

pay, pay ... back, pays ... back, payment, penalty, prize, recompense, repay, repayment, retribution, reward, rewarded, rewarder, rewarding, rewards, wage, wages

run

Related Ideas:

Definition:

Literally the term "run" means "move very quickly on foot," usually at a greater speed than can be accomplished by walking. To "run after" or "pursue" someone or something is to move as quickly as possible to try to catch that person or thing. To run away from someone or something is to "flee."

This main meaning of "run" is also used in figurative expressions such as the following:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

caused ... to flee, fled, flee, fleeing, flees, flow, flows, moving swiftly, ran, run, runner, runners, running, runs

sandal

Definition:

A sandal is a simple flat-soled shoe held onto the foot by straps that go around the foot or ankle. Sandals are worn by both men and women.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

seek

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "seek" means to look for something or someone. The past tense is "sought." It can also mean "try hard" or "make an effort" to do something.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

diligently seek, go to find, look out for, looked for, looking for, looks for, search, search carefully, search for, searched, searched for, searched out, searches ... out, searches for, searching, searching for, seek, seek ... out, seeking, seeks, sought, tried, try, trying

servant

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The word "servant" refers to a person who works for another person, either by choice or by force. Some servants were slaves, and the surrounding text usually makes it clear whether or not a particular servant was a slave. In Bible times, there was less of a difference between a servant and a slave than there is today. Both servants and slaves were an important part of their master's household and many were treated almost like members of the family. Sometimes a servant would choose to become a lifetime servant to his master.

The word "serve" means to do things to help other people. It can also mean to "worship."

The word "service" refers to the work that a servant does. It may also refer to worship.

Bible References

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

female servant, female servants, hired servant, hired servants, hired worker, maidservants, male servant, male servants, office, offices, one who serves, servant, servant girl, servant girls, servant's, servants, servants', serve, served, serves, service, services, serving

sin

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "sin" refers to actions, thoughts, and words that are against God's will and laws. Sin can also refer to not doing something that God wants us to do.

Translation Suggestions:

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sister

Definition:

A sister is a female person who shares at least one biological parent with another person. She is said to be that other person’s sister or the sister of that other person.

Translation Suggestions:

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son

Definition:

The male offspring of a man and a woman is called their "son" for his entire life. He is also called a son of that man and a son of that woman. An "adopted son" is a male who has been legally placed into the position of being a son.

Translation Suggestions:

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test

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "test" refers to a difficult or painful experience that reveals a person's strengths and weaknesses.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

thresh

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "thresh" and "threshing" refer to the first part of the process of separating wheat grain from the rest of the wheat plant.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

beat ... out, beaten ... out, floors for threshing, thresh, threshed, threshes, threshing, threshing floor, threshing sledges

time

Definitions:

In the Bible the term "time" was often used to refer to a specific season or period of time when certain events took place. It has a meaning similar to "age" or "epoch" or "season."

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

true

Related Ideas:

certain, certainly, certainty, indeed, real, sure, surely, truly, truth, truthful, truthfulness, truths

Definition:

The term "truth" refers to one or more concepts that are facts, events that actually happened, and statements that were actually said. Such concepts are said to be "true."

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

certainly, certainty, for certain, indeed, real, sure, surely, true, truly, truth, truthful, truthfulness, truths

turn

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To "turn" means to physically change direction or to cause something else to change direction.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

acts of apostasy, apostasy, apostate, turn, turn ... away, turned, turned ... away, turned ... away ... in disgust, turned ... back, turning, turning ... away, turns, turns ... away, turns ... away from

vine

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "vine" refers to a plant that grows by trailing along the ground or by climbing trees and other structures. The word "vine" in the Bible is used only of fruit-bearing vines and usually refers to grape vines.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

voice

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term “voice” refers to sound that a person makes when speaking or singing. The term "voice" is often used figuratively to refer to speaking or communicating something.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

walk

Definition:

Translation Suggestions:

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water

Definition:

In addition to its primary meaning, "water" also often refers to a body of water, such as an ocean, sea, lake, or river.

Translation Suggestions:

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

well

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "well" and "cistern" refer to two different kinds of sources for water in Bible times.

Translation Suggestions:

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

wheat

Definition:

Wheat is a type of grain that people grow for food. When the Bible mentions "grain" or "seeds," it is often talking about wheat grain or seeds.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

wine

Related Ideas:

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "wine" refers to a kind of fermented drink made from the juice of a fruit called grapes. Wine was stored in "wineskins," which were containers made out of animal skin.

Translation Suggestions:

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winnow

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "winnow" and "sift" mean to separate grain from unwanted materials. In the Bible, both words are also used in a figurative sense to refer to separating or dividing people.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

womb

Related Ideas:

Definition:

Picture showing location of a Womb:

Bible References:

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work

Related Ideas:

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "work," "deed," and "act" are used to refer generally to things that God or people do.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act, action, actions, activities, acts, deed, deeds, fellow worker, fellow workers, work, works

worthy

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "worthy" describes someone or something that deserves respect or honor. To "have worth" means to be valuable or important.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

deserve, deserved, deserves, deserving, nullify, unworthy, worth, worthily, worthless, worthlessness, worthy

year

Definition:

When used literally, the term "year" in the Bible refers to a period of time lasting 354 days. This is according to the lunar calendar system which is based on the time it takes for the moon to go around the earth.

Language: English

Book: Ruth

Ruth

Chapter 1

Ruth 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

"It happened in the days when the judges ruled"

Special concepts in this chapter

Women without a husband or children

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Contrast

Ruth 1:1

It happened in the days when the judges ruled that

in the days when the judges ruled

in the land

a certain man

Ruth 1:2

Ephrathites of Bethlehem of Judah

Ruth 1:3

she was left alone with her two sons

Ruth 1:4

took wives

from the women of Moab

the name of one ... the name of the other

ten years

Ruth 1:5

General Information:

Ruth 1:6

she arose with her daughters-in-law and returned

she had heard in the country of Moab

Yahweh

had provided for his people's needs

daughters-in-law

Ruth 1:7

they walked down the road

Ruth 1:8

daughters-in-law

each of you

your mother's house

shown kindness

kindness

toward the dead

Ruth 1:9

grant you

you find rest

in the house of another husband

they raised their voices and cried

Ruth 1:10

We will return

with you

Ruth 1:11

Why will you go with me?

Do I still have sons in my womb for you, so that they may become your husbands?

Ruth 1:12

too old to have a husband

give birth to sons

Ruth 1:13

would you therefore wait until they were grown? Would you choose not to marry a husband?

It is exceedingly bitter to me

the hand of Yahweh has gone out against me

Ruth 1:14

lifted up their voices and cried

Ruth held on to her

Ruth 1:15

Listen, your sister-in-law

your sister-in-law

her gods

Ruth 1:16

where you stay

your people will be my people

Ruth 1:17

Where you die, I will die

May Yahweh punish me, and even more, if

Ruth 1:18

she stopped arguing with her

Ruth 1:19

It happened

the entire town

Is this Naomi?

Ruth 1:20