Ruth 3:10
And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich.
Ruth 3:10 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse comes from the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. Boaz, a wealthy landowner, is speaking to Ruth, a Moabite woman who has shown great loyalty and kindness to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Boaz acknowledges Ruth's kindness and faithfulness, noting that she has displayed more kindness in the latter part of her journey than at the beginning. He praises her for not seeking out young men, whether poor or rich, but instead remaining devoted to Naomi and following the path of righteousness. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of loyalty, humility, and kindness in the eyes of the Lord. It also highlights the idea that true blessings come from acts of kindness and faithfulness towards others, rather than seeking out worldly pleasures or riches. In the context of the story of Ruth, this verse reflects Boaz's recognition of Ruth's character and virtue, leading to their eventual union and the continuation of Naomi's family line. Overall, this verse serves as a lesson on the value of selflessness and devotion to others, ultimately leading to blessings from the Lord.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Boaz is praising Ruth for her loyalty and integrity. The phrase "Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter" shows Boaz acknowledging Ruth's righteousness and commending her for her actions. The word "kindness" in this verse refers to Ruth's loyalty and dedication to Naomi, even when it would have been easier for her to follow young men, whether poor or rich. This demonstrates Ruth's selflessness and her willingness to put others before herself. Boaz recognizes and appreciates Ruth's decision to stay faithful to Naomi, despite the potential for personal gain by seeking out a husband among the younger men in Bethlehem. This verse shows the importance of character and perseverance in the eyes of God, as Ruth's actions are ultimately rewarded by Boaz and, in turn, by the Lord.
Ruth 3:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he said, Blessed be thou of Jehovah, my daughter: thou hast showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich.
World English Bible
He said, “Blessed are you by Yahweh, my daughter. You have shown more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, because you didn’t follow young men, whether poor or rich.
Douay-Rheims
And he said: Blessed art thou of the Lord, my daughter, and thy latter kindness has surpassed the former: because thou hast not followed young men either poor or rich.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then sayd he, Blessed be thou of the Lord, my daughter: thou hast shewed more goodnes in the latter end, then at the beginning, in as much as thou followedst not yong men, were they poore or rich.