Old Testament
Ruth 3:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When he lies down, note the place where he lies. Then go over, uncover his feet, and lie down there. He will tell you what to do.
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And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
What Ruth 3:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Ruth 3:4, Naomi instructs Ruth on how to approach Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer. The advice is strategic and culturally significant. By observing where Boaz lies down, Ruth is to uncover his feet and lie down at his feet, a gesture of submission and request for protection. This act symbolizes Ruth's willingness to seek Boaz's favor and potentially his help in redeeming her family line. The act of uncovering his feet is also a way to signal her intentions without direct confrontation. This moment is pivotal as it sets the stage for Ruth to express her desire for Boaz to fulfill his role as a redeemer, which is a key theme in the story of Ruth. It highlights themes of loyalty, courage, and the importance of following cultural customs in relationships.
How to apply Ruth 3:4 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of being strategic and respectful in our relationships. It encourages us to seek guidance and act with intention when approaching significant decisions, especially in matters of love and commitment. Listening to wise counsel can lead to positive outcomes.
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 3:4
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 3:4 mean?
Ruth 3:4 describes Naomi's instructions to Ruth on how to approach Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer. It emphasizes the cultural practice of seeking protection and favor through a symbolic act of submission.
What is the significance of uncovering feet in Ruth 3:4?
Uncovering Boaz's feet is a gesture of submission and a way for Ruth to signal her intentions without direct confrontation. It represents her desire for his protection and assistance in redeeming her family.
How does Ruth 3:4 relate to themes of redemption?
Ruth 3:4 is pivotal as it illustrates Ruth's willingness to seek Boaz's help in redeeming her family line, which is a central theme in the story of Ruth.
What can we learn from Ruth 3:4 about relationships?
Ruth 3:4 teaches the importance of being strategic and respectful in relationships, encouraging us to seek wise counsel and act with intention when making significant decisions.
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