Ruth 3:8

Authorized King James Version

And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽיְהִי֙
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
בַּֽחֲצִ֣י
And it came to pass at midnight
the half or middle
#3
הַלַּ֔יְלָה
properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity
#4
וַיֶּֽחֱרַ֥ד
was afraid
to shudder with terror; hence, to fear; also to hasten (with anxiety)
#5
הָאִ֖ישׁ
that the man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#6
וַיִּלָּפֵ֑ת
and turned
properly, to bend, i.e., (by implication) to clasp; also (reflexively) to turn around or aside
#7
וְהִנֵּ֣ה
lo!
#8
אִשָּׁ֔ה
himself and behold a woman
a woman
#9
שֹׁכֶ֖בֶת
lay
to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
#10
מַרְגְּלֹתָֽיו׃
at his feet
(plural for collective) a footpiece, i.e., (adverbially) at the foot, or (direct.) the foot itself

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ruth, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ruth.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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