Ruth 3 18

Ruth 3:18 kjv

Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day.

Ruth 3:18 nkjv

Then she said, "Sit still, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out; for the man will not rest until he has concluded the matter this day."

Ruth 3:18 niv

Then Naomi said, "Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today."

Ruth 3:18 esv

She replied, "Wait, my daughter, until you learn how the matter turns out, for the man will not rest but will settle the matter today."

Ruth 3:18 nlt

Then Naomi said to her, "Just be patient, my daughter, until we hear what happens. The man won't rest until he has settled things today."

Ruth 3 verses

Ruth 3 18 Meaning

Ruth 3:18 depicts Naomi's counsel to Ruth, encouraging her to wait patiently and trust that Boaz will diligently conclude the matter of redemption without delay. It conveys a deep understanding of Boaz's character and God's providence, assuring Ruth that the present state of uncertainty will soon give way to a settled resolution concerning their future. The verse underscores themes of trust, waiting, and the diligent completion of commitments.

Ruth 3 18 Context

Ruth chapter 3 reaches a critical juncture where Ruth, following Naomi's bold counsel, had approached Boaz at the threshing floor. Boaz, acknowledging her virtuous character and loyalty, agreed to fulfill the role of the kinsman-redeemer (go'el), but identified another closer kinsman who had the first right. Upon Ruth's return, Naomi eagerly seeks information about the night's events. Ruth 3:18 captures Naomi's experienced wisdom and prophetic assurance to Ruth, instructing her to "sit still" (wait patiently) because Boaz is a man of his word who will not rest until he completes what he has promised, and he will do it swiftly. This verse signals a transition from active pursuit by Ruth to patient trust and anticipation of Boaz's diligence, setting the stage for chapter 4.

Ruth 3 18 Word analysis

• And Naomi said, "Sit still, my daughter":

  • And Naomi said: Signals a crucial, definitive statement. Naomi's words carry authority and deep understanding based on experience and perhaps intuition.
  • "Sit still" (שׁוּבִי, shuvi): Hebrew imperative, literally "return" or "dwell, remain." Here it means to "remain quiet, wait patiently, rest." It implies cessation from striving and active pursuit, emphasizing calm and trusting anticipation. It stands in contrast to Ruth's previous actions of gleaning and initiating the encounter at the threshing floor.
  • "my daughter" (בִּתִּי, bitti): A term of endearment, expressing deep affection, protection, and guidance from a wise elder to a younger woman. It highlights the familial bond and Naomi's loving counsel.

• "until you know how the matter will turn out":

  • "until you know" (עַד אֲשֶׁר תֵּדְעִי, 'ad asher te'dei): Emphasizes that Ruth will gain certain knowledge, removing uncertainty. The outcome is not merely hoped for but is confidently expected to be revealed. Naomi does not provide speculative answers but awaits definitive facts.
  • "how the matter will turn out" (אֵיכָה יִפֹּל דָּבָר, eichah yippol davar): Literally "how will the word/thing fall?" This idiomatic expression speaks of the resolution or outcome of a situation. "Matter" (davar) here encompasses the entire situation of the levirate marriage and the redemption of the field. The phrase "fall" suggests an inevitable and decisive resolution, as if an outcome will "fall into place."

• "For the man will not rest until he has finished the matter today."

  • "For the man": Refers to Boaz. Naomi speaks with strong conviction about his character and reliability.
  • "will not rest" (לֹא יִשְׁקֹט, lo yishqoṭ): Lit. "will not be quiet," "will not cease," "will not be still." This strong negative implies intense determination and diligence. Boaz is depicted as a man of action who prioritizes commitment and sees it through promptly.
  • "until he has finished" (כִּלָּה, killah): Indicates completion, bringing to an end, fulfilling a task. It points to Boaz's unwavering commitment to accomplish what he promised.
  • "the matter" (ha'davar): Again, the "word/thing" referring to the business of redemption and marriage.
  • "today" (הַיּוֹם, hayom): Emphasizes urgency and immediate action. Naomi's certainty is rooted in Boaz's upright character and commitment to fulfilling his promise swiftly, before the day concludes or as soon as possible after daylight allows for public transaction. This highlights a rapid resolution, signifying his earnestness and integrity in handling legal and relational affairs.

Ruth 3 18 Bonus section

This verse highlights a key theme in the book of Ruth: divine providence working through human agency. Naomi's quiet confidence is not born of a passive wait-and-see attitude, but from her deep spiritual maturity and discernment of character, recognizing Boaz's exceptional chesed (loyal love/kindness) and righteousness. The sense of urgency (today) also implies a desire to prevent any misunderstanding or opportunity for the situation to become compromised if left unfinished. The Jewish cultural context of formal legal proceedings (buying and selling land, performing yibbum - levirate marriage) meant public and expeditious action was often preferred, especially to protect the honor and legal rights of all parties involved. This instruction encapsulates the quiet hope that often precedes great divine action, as it trusts the agent of that action.

Ruth 3 18 Commentary

Ruth 3:18 is a pivotal verse conveying the calm wisdom of Naomi, the upright character of Boaz, and the posture of patient expectation. Naomi's instruction to "sit still" (be still or wait) is not passive resignation but an active trust in God's providence operating through a faithful human agent. She knows Boaz's integrity well, understanding that he will not delay once a commitment is made. His dedication is shown in the phrase "will not rest until he has finished the matter today," portraying him as a diligent and righteous man who swiftly addresses responsibilities. This provides profound reassurance to Ruth, alleviating her anxieties. The resolution is not in her hands now but is assuredly in Boaz's capable and upright actions. It underscores the biblical principle of waiting patiently for divine orchestration while good men faithfully carry out their word, pointing towards the faithfulness of God Himself to complete what He starts. This verse demonstrates a spiritual confidence that God works through His righteous people to bring His plans to fruition.