Old Testament
Ruth 3:13
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Stay here tonight. In the morning, if he's willing to fulfill the kinsman's duty for you, good — let him do it. But if he's not willing, then as surely as the LORD lives, I will do it myself. Now lie down until morning."
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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.
What Ruth 3:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Ruth is instructed to stay the night and wait for Boaz's decision regarding his role as a kinsman-redeemer. Boaz expresses his willingness to help Ruth, but he also acknowledges that there is another relative who has the first right to redeem her. He reassures Ruth that if this man refuses, he will take on the responsibility himself. This moment highlights Boaz's integrity and commitment to doing what is right according to the customs of their people. By asking Ruth to lie down until morning, he ensures her safety and shows his protective nature. This verse emphasizes the importance of patience and trust in God's timing, as well as the significance of family obligations in the culture of that time.
How to apply Ruth 3:13 to your life
This verse teaches us the value of waiting for the right moment and trusting in God's plan. In our own lives, we may face situations where we need to be patient and allow others to fulfill their responsibilities. It encourages us to act with integrity and to be willing to help others when needed.
Curated for this public verse page. Ruth Summary
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Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: At the Threshing Floor (Ruth 3:1–18)
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Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Ruth 3:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Ruth
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ruth 3:13 mean?
Ruth 3:13 means that Ruth is instructed to stay the night and wait for Boaz's decision about his role as a kinsman-redeemer. Boaz shows his integrity by stating he will help her if another relative refuses to take on the responsibility.
What is the significance of the kinsman-redeemer in Ruth 3:13?
The kinsman-redeemer is significant in Ruth 3:13 as it represents the cultural obligation to protect and provide for family members. Boaz's willingness to fulfill this role highlights the importance of family duties and integrity in their society.
What does Boaz mean by 'as surely as the LORD lives' in Ruth 3:13?
When Boaz says 'as surely as the LORD lives,' he is affirming his commitment to act honorably and truthfully. It emphasizes the seriousness of his promise to help Ruth if the other relative does not fulfill his duty.
Why does Ruth need to wait until morning in Ruth 3:13?
Ruth is asked to wait until morning to ensure her safety and to allow Boaz to handle the situation appropriately. This waiting period also reflects the importance of patience and trust in God's timing.
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