Old Testament
Ruth 3:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then he said, "Bring the vail you have on and hold it open." When she held it, he measured six measures of barley and laid it on her. Then she went into the city.
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Also he said, Bring the vail that thou hast upon thee, and hold it. And when she held it, he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and she went into the city.
What Ruth 3:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Boaz instructs Ruth to bring her shawl or veil and hold it open. He then fills it with six measures of barley, a significant amount that symbolizes his generosity and commitment to her. This act not only provides Ruth with food but also serves as a public declaration of Boaz's intentions towards her. By giving her this barley, Boaz is ensuring that Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi, will have enough to eat. The act of measuring out the barley also indicates that Boaz is taking care to provide for Ruth's needs, showing his kindness and willingness to support her. After receiving the barley, Ruth returns to the city, likely to share the good news with Naomi. This moment highlights the themes of provision, kindness, and the unfolding of God's plan in their lives, as Ruth and Boaz's relationship continues to develop.
How to apply Ruth 3:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to be generous and supportive to those in need. Just as Boaz provided for Ruth, we can look for opportunities to help others in our community. Acts of kindness can make a significant difference in someone's life and reflect our values and faith.
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 3:15
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 3:15 mean?
Ruth 3:15 describes Boaz asking Ruth to hold out her veil so he can fill it with six measures of barley. This act symbolizes his generosity and commitment to her, ensuring she and Naomi have enough food.
What is the significance of the six measures of barley in Ruth 3:15?
The six measures of barley represent Boaz's kindness and willingness to provide for Ruth and Naomi. It also serves as a public declaration of his intentions towards Ruth, highlighting his role as a protector.
What does the veil symbolize in Ruth 3:15?
In Ruth 3:15, the veil symbolizes Ruth's openness to receive Boaz's generosity and support. It also signifies her status and the cultural practices of the time regarding modesty and provision.
How does Ruth 3:15 relate to the themes of kindness and provision?
Ruth 3:15 illustrates kindness through Boaz's generous act of giving barley to Ruth. It emphasizes the importance of supporting those in need and reflects God's provision in their lives.
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