Ruth 3:17
And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law.
Original Language Analysis
שֵׁשׁ
These six
H8337
שֵׁשׁ
These six
Strong's:
H8337
Word #:
2 of 13
six (as an overplus beyond five or the fingers of the hand); as ordinal, sixth
נָ֣תַן
gave
H5414
נָ֣תַן
gave
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
5 of 13
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
כִּ֚י
H3588
כִּ֚י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
7 of 13
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
תָּב֥וֹאִי
to me Go
H935
תָּב֥וֹאִי
to me Go
Strong's:
H935
Word #:
10 of 13
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
רֵיקָ֖ם
not empty
H7387
רֵיקָ֖ם
not empty
Strong's:
H7387
Word #:
11 of 13
emptily; figuratively (objective) ineffectually, (subjective) undeservedly
Historical Context
The phrase 'go not empty' echoed Naomi's earlier complaint that she returned from Moab 'empty' (1:21). Boaz's provision began reversing that emptiness with tangible abundance. The six measures of barley provided proof of Boaz's serious intentions—words alone might be doubted, but generous gift demonstrated genuine commitment and financial capacity to fulfill promises. Ancient Near Eastern betrothal involved gift exchanges signaling family alliance and groom's ability to provide.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Boaz's concern that Ruth not return empty teach about Christian generosity including those connected to primary recipients?
- How does tangible evidence of commitment (the barley) illustrate that genuine love demonstrates itself through concrete action?
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Analysis & Commentary
Evidence shown: 'And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said unto me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law'. Ruth reports Boaz's words showing his care extended to Naomi—he didn't want Ruth returning empty-handed. The large gift tangibly demonstrated Boaz's commitment and ability to provide abundantly. His concern for Naomi showed he understood that redeeming Ruth meant caring for her whole family, not just gaining a wife. This demonstrated covenant thinking—marriage joined families, creating comprehensive mutual responsibilities.