Ruth 3:13

KJV

Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, [that] if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman's part: but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, [as] the LORD liveth: lie down until the morning.

KJV (with Strong's)

Tarry {H3885} this night {H3915}, and it shall be in the morning {H1242}, that if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman {H1350}, well {H2896}; let him do the kinsman's part {H1350}: but if he will {H2654} not do the part of a kinsman {H1350} to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman {H1350} to thee, as the LORD {H3068} liveth {H2416}: lie down {H7901} until the morning {H1242}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Stay tonight. If, in the morning, he will redeem you, fine! - let him redeem you. But if he doesn't want to redeem you, then, as ADONAI lives, I will redeem you. Now, lie down until morning."

Berean Standard Bible

Stay here tonight, and in the morning, if he wants to redeem you, good. Let him redeem you. But if he does not want to redeem you, as surely as the LORD lives, I will. Now lie here until morning.”

American Standard Version

Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman’s part: but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, as Jehovah liveth: lie down until the morning.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 3:13 encapsulates Boaz's honorable and decisive response to Ruth’s vulnerable plea for him to act as her kinsman-redeemer. Following a night of discreet waiting at the threshing floor, Boaz, a man renowned for his integrity and faithfulness, pledges to fulfill the sacred duty of the *goel*—either by ensuring the closer relative performs the redemption or, failing that, by taking on the responsibility himself. This pivotal declaration seals Ruth's hope for security, lineage, and a future, profoundly demonstrating Boaz's unwavering commitment to both the Mosaic Law and the welfare of Naomi and Ruth, thereby setting the stage for the narrative's redemptive resolution.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ruth 3:13 serves as the narrative climax of the threshing floor encounter, which is itself the pivotal turning point of the book of Ruth. After Ruth, acting on Naomi's strategic and somewhat daring instruction, lies at Boaz's feet, she makes her bold and direct request: "Spread your cloak over your servant, for you are a kinsman-redeemer" ([Ruth 3:9](/ruth/3-9 "Ruth 3:9 - Ruth's Request to Boaz")). Boaz's response in this verse directly addresses her plea, affirming his awareness of the complex legal and social situation and his unwavering commitment to proper procedure. This scene builds upon the earlier establishment of Boaz's character as a man of kindness, generosity, and righteousness ([Ruth 2:1-23](/ruth/2 "Ruth 2 - Ruth Gleans in Boaz's Field")), and Ruth's steadfast loyalty to Naomi, famously declared in [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16-17 "Ruth 1:16-17 - Ruth's Declaration of Loyalty and Faith")). The outcome of this delicate nighttime encounter will determine the future of both women, moving the story from a state of uncertainty and vulnerability to the promise of security, provision, and the continuation of a vital family lineage.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Ruth 3:13 are deeply rooted in the ancient Israelite legal and social framework surrounding the *goel* (kinsman-redeemer) and the practice of Levirate marriage. The *goel* was the nearest male relative who held the solemn duty to protect the family's interests, which could encompass redeeming property sold due to poverty ([Leviticus 25:25](/leviticus/25-25 "Leviticus 25:25 - Law of Redemption of Land")), avenging the blood of a slain family member ([Numbers 35:19](/numbers/35-19 "Numbers 35:19 - The Avenger of Blood")), or, as is the case here, marrying a childless widow to raise up an heir for her deceased husband, thereby preserving his name and inheritance ([Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5-10 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Levirate Marriage Law")). Boaz's actions are meticulously governed by these laws, specifically his recognition that there is a kinsman closer than himself who possesses the primary right of redemption. The threshing floor setting, a place of agricultural labor and often communal activity during the day, carries symbolic weight, representing abundance and the potential for new life. However, the private, nighttime setting underscores Ruth's vulnerability and the need for utmost discretion in addressing such a sensitive and legally intricate matter.
* **Key Themes:** Ruth 3:13 powerfully illuminates several core themes woven throughout the book of Ruth. The most prominent is the **Kinsman-Redeemer (Goel)**, showcasing the practical and ethical application of this ancient legal and social institution and setting the stage for its profound theological implications. Boaz's character exemplifies **Integrity and Righteousness**, as he consistently prioritizes strict adherence to the law and the welfare of others over any personal desires, even sealing his promise with a solemn oath "as the LORD liveth." This commitment underscores his deep reverence for divine principles and his moral uprightness. The verse also subtly reveals **Divine Providence**, demonstrating how God's sovereign hand orchestrates and guides seemingly human actions and legal customs to bring about His purposes for Ruth, Naomi, and ultimately, the lineage that would lead to King David. For Ruth, Boaz's decisive declaration offers profound **Hope and Security**, transforming a night of uncertainty into a concrete promise of resolution and a secure future, aligning with the overarching theme of God's faithful provision for the vulnerable and marginalized.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kinsman (Hebrew, H1350, _gâʼal'_):** This term, often translated as "kinsman-redeemer," is foundational to the entire narrative of Ruth and central to this verse. The *gâʼal* was a close relative who possessed the legal right and moral obligation to act on behalf of another family member to restore what was lost (e.g., property, freedom) or to preserve the family line. In the context of Ruth, it specifically refers to the duty to marry a childless widow and raise an heir for her deceased husband, thereby preventing his name and inheritance from perishing from Israel. Boaz's repeated use of the phrase "do the part of a kinsman" (derived from *gâʼal*) signifies his full understanding and acceptance of these complex legal and social obligations, emphasizing his crucial role as a potential redeemer.
* **Tarry (Hebrew, H3885, _lûwn'_):** This verb means "to lodge," "to spend the night," or "to remain." In this pivotal context, Boaz's command "Tarry this night" is critical for several reasons. It ensures Ruth's safety and protects her reputation by keeping her at the threshing floor until morning, away from the dangers of traveling alone at night and preventing any misinterpretation or scandal regarding her presence. Furthermore, it provides the necessary time for Boaz to strategize and prepare to formally address the legal matter of the closer kinsman, thereby demonstrating his protective, honorable, and meticulously planned intentions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Tarry this night":** This is Boaz's immediate and protective instruction to Ruth upon discovering her at his feet. This command is both practical, ensuring her safety until daylight, and honorable, preventing any potential scandal or misinterpretation of her presence at the threshing floor during the dark hours. It instantly establishes Boaz's upright character and concern for Ruth's welfare.
* **"and it shall be in the morning, [that] if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman's part:":** This clause introduces the conditional element and reveals Boaz's strict adherence to legal and ethical protocol. He openly acknowledges the existence of a kinsman closer than himself who holds the first right and responsibility of redemption. Boaz's commitment to respecting this established legal order, even though it delays his own desires, underscores his fairness, integrity, and deep respect for the Law.
* **"but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, [as] the LORD liveth:":** This is Boaz's solemn, binding promise and the emotional heart of the verse. He unequivocally pledges that if the closer kinsman declines his duty, he himself will fulfill the role of the *goel*. The powerful phrase "as the LORD liveth" is a sacred oath, invoking God as witness and guarantor, thereby underscoring the absolute certainty, seriousness, and divine backing of his commitment. It signifies that his promise is made before God and will be honored without fail.
* **"lie down until the morning.":** This reiteration of the initial instruction serves to reinforce the safety and temporary nature of Ruth's stay. It provides profound reassurance and a clear, comforting directive for Ruth, allowing her to rest with the certain knowledge that her precarious situation will be resolved honorably and justly.

#### Literary Devices
Ruth 3:13 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message and advance the narrative. **Dialogue** is central, as Boaz's direct and authoritative speech not only reveals his character, his comprehensive understanding of the law, and his unwavering commitment, but also provides the turning point of the plot. The conditional nature of his promise ("if he will... then I will...") creates palpable **Suspense**, building anticipation for the resolution of the kinsman issue in the subsequent chapter. This suspense is further heightened by the intimate and vulnerable night setting, which adds an element of mystery and urgency to the encounter. The powerful phrase "as the LORD liveth" functions as a solemn **Oath**, emphasizing Boaz's unshakeable integrity and the divine backing of his word, thereby elevating his promise beyond mere human assurance to a sacred vow. Furthermore, the entire scene, and Boaz's self-sacrificial role within it, serves as rich **Foreshadowing** for the greater Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ, subtly pointing to the ultimate act of redemption that would secure an eternal inheritance for all who believe.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 3:13 stands as a profound testament to God's providential care, demonstrating His active involvement in human affairs by working through the integrity of faithful individuals and the structures of His divine law to bring about His redemptive purposes. Boaz's honorable conduct, his meticulous commitment to the law, and his solemn, God-invoking oath exemplify a life lived in deep accordance with divine principles. This verse powerfully highlights the biblical truth that God often uses faithful, righteous individuals as instruments to execute His sovereign plans, even in seemingly ordinary, complex, or challenging circumstances. It underscores the profound biblical concept of redemption, not merely as a legal or financial transaction, but as a compassionate act of loving-kindness (Hebrew: *hesed*) and covenant faithfulness. Boaz's willing and self-sacrificial desire to "do the part of a kinsman" serves as a powerful, tangible foreshadowing of a greater, more profound redemption, reminding us that God is perpetually and intimately involved in securing the future and eternal destiny of His people, providing ultimate hope and security where there was once vulnerability and despair.

* [Leviticus 25:48-49](/leviticus/25-48-49 "Leviticus 25:48-49 - Redemption of a Brother")
* [Jeremiah 32:6-8](/jeremiah/32-6-8 "Jeremiah 32:6-8 - Jeremiah Redeems a Field")
* [Psalm 27:1](/psalm/27-1 "Psalm 27:1 - The Lord is My Light and My Salvation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 3:13 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers, particularly concerning the vital importance of integrity, the nature of trust, and the call to proactive righteousness. Boaz's immediate, unwavering, and legally precise commitment to Ruth, even when faced with the technicality of a closer kinsman, serves as an exemplary model for how we are to embody and live out our faith in practical terms. His promise, sealed with a sacred oath "as the LORD liveth," challenges us to be people of our word, whose commitments are firm, reliable, and rooted in a deep reverence for God. In a world often characterized by fleeting promises, self-interest, and moral ambiguity, Boaz's character calls us to embody a counter-cultural integrity, consistently prioritizing the welfare of others and an unwavering adherence to righteous principles. Furthermore, Ruth's vulnerable position, met by Boaz's honorable and protective response, serves as a powerful reminder for us to cultivate a deep trust in God's providential care, recognizing that His provision is often delivered through the faithful and compassionate actions of His people. It also encourages us to wait patiently and trustingly for His perfect timing and the unfolding of His sovereign plan in our own lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Boaz's integrity in this verse challenge my own commitment to keeping promises, particularly when it might be inconvenient, costly, or require navigating complex situations?**
* **In what specific areas of my life am I called to "do the kinsman's part" for others, acting as a redeemer, protector, or compassionate helper in their time of vulnerability or need?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper, more resilient trust in God's providential care, even when facing uncertainty or seemingly insurmountable obstacles, knowing that He often works through faithful individuals like Boaz?**
* **What does Boaz's solemn oath "as the LORD liveth" teach me about the profound seriousness and weight of my own words and commitments, both to others and before God?**

### FAQ

**Why didn't Boaz just marry Ruth immediately?**

Answer: Boaz was indeed a kinsman-redeemer, but he was not the *closest* kinsman-redeemer. According to the intricate Mosaic Law concerning the *goel* and the practice of Levirate marriage ([Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5-10 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Levirate Marriage Law")), the primary right and solemn responsibility of redemption fell first to the nearest male relative. Boaz, being a man of impeccable integrity and strict adherence to the law, recognized and respected this legal precedence. His promise in [Ruth 3:13](/ruth/3-13 "Ruth 3:13 - Boaz's Promise to Ruth") explicitly states that if the closer kinsman would perform his duty, he should do so; only if that individual declined his obligation would Boaz then step in. This meticulous approach ensured that the legal process was followed correctly, honorably, and transparently, thereby protecting the rights and reputations of all parties involved and upholding the integrity of the law.

**What is the significance of Boaz's oath, "as the LORD liveth"?**

Answer: The phrase "as the LORD liveth" (Hebrew: חַי־יְהוָה, *chay-Yahweh*) is a deeply solemn and binding oath in ancient Israelite culture. It literally means "by the life of the LORD" or "as surely as the LORD lives." By swearing this oath, Boaz was invoking God Himself as his supreme witness and ultimate guarantor, indicating the absolute certainty, seriousness, and divine backing of his promise. It demonstrated that his commitment to Ruth was not merely a casual statement or a fleeting intention, but a sacred vow made before the living God, ensuring that he would indeed fulfill his word without fail, whether by facilitating the closer kinsman's action or by acting as the redeemer himself. This oath powerfully underscores Boaz's profound reverence for God and his unshakeable moral integrity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 3:13, with Boaz's decisive promise to "do the part of a kinsman," stands as a profoundly beautiful and significant foreshadowing of the ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Just as Boaz, a man of wealth and integrity, was willing to pay the necessary price and assume responsibility for Ruth, a vulnerable outsider and a Moabite, so Christ, our divine *Goel*, willingly entered into our human condition to redeem us from the bondage of sin and death ([Galatians 4:4-5](/galatians/4-4-5 "Galatians 4:4-5 - God Sent His Son")). Where we were helpless, spiritually impoverished, and without hope, alienated from God, Christ, through His perfect life, atoning death on the cross, and glorious resurrection, paid the ultimate, infinite price. He shed His precious blood to secure our redemption, reconcile us to God, and bring us into His eternal family ([Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood")). Boaz's integrity, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the law perfectly mirror Christ's perfect righteousness and boundless, covenantal love, as He "did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing" for our sake ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6-8 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). Through Christ, we receive not merely a restored lineage or earthly property, but an eternal inheritance, becoming co-heirs with Him in the glorious kingdom of God ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")), thereby fulfilling the deepest longing for security, belonging, and an eternal future that Ruth found in Boaz.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 4:2

And thou shalt swear, The LORD liveth, in truth, in judgment, and in righteousness; and the nations shall bless themselves in him, and in him shall they glory.

Ruth 4:5

Then said Boaz, What day thou buyest the field of the hand of Naomi, thou must buy [it] also of Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance.

Ruth 2:20

And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed [be] he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man [is] near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.

Deuteronomy 25:5

¶ If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her.

Deuteronomy 25:9

Then shall his brother's wife come unto him in the presence of the elders, and loose his shoe from off his foot, and spit in his face, and shall answer and say, So shall it be done unto that man that will not build up his brother's house.

Matthew 22:24

Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.

Matthew 22:27

And last of all the woman died also.