Ruth 3:8
And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet.
Original Language Analysis
וַֽיְהִי֙
H1961
וַֽיְהִי֙
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 10
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
הַלַּ֔יְלָה
H3915
הַלַּ֔יְלָה
Strong's:
H3915
Word #:
3 of 10
properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity
וַיֶּֽחֱרַ֥ד
was afraid
H2729
וַיֶּֽחֱרַ֥ד
was afraid
Strong's:
H2729
Word #:
4 of 10
to shudder with terror; hence, to fear; also to hasten (with anxiety)
הָאִ֖ישׁ
that the man
H376
הָאִ֖ישׁ
that the man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
5 of 10
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)
וַיִּלָּפֵ֑ת
and turned
H3943
וַיִּלָּפֵ֑ת
and turned
Strong's:
H3943
Word #:
6 of 10
properly, to bend, i.e., (by implication) to clasp; also (reflexively) to turn around or aside
Historical Context
Waking suddenly to find someone at one's feet in darkness would startle anyone. Boaz's initial fear or trembling likely involved surprise, not recognition of impropriety or fear of scandal—the narrative presents his subsequent response as entirely honorable. Ancient threshing floors during harvest could attract thieves or vandals, explaining Boaz's initial alarm. Ruth risked significant reputation damage by this approach, demonstrating faith in both Boaz's character and God's protective providence.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Ruth's risky obedience teach about faith that acts despite potential for misunderstanding?
- How does this demonstrate God's sovereignty protecting those who act in faith-based obedience?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Discovery: 'And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet'. The midnight timing and Boaz's startlement ('was afraid', literally 'trembled' or 'was startled') show his surprise at discovering someone at his feet. The narrative's suspense emphasizes the vulnerability and risk Ruth undertook. Her presence could have been misinterpreted, yet the outcome validates Naomi's confidence in Boaz's character. God's providence orchestrated circumstances so Boaz would respond with honor rather than exploitation.