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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then said {H559} she, Sit still {H3427}, my daughter {H1323}, until thou know {H3045} how the matter {H1697} will fall {H5307}: for the man {H376} will not be in rest {H8252}, until {H518} he have finished {H3615} the thing {H1697} this day {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Na'omi said, "My daughter, just stay where you are, until you learn how the matter comes out; for the man won't rest unless he resolves the matter today."

Berean Standard Bible

“Wait, my daughter,” said Naomi, “until you find out how things go, for he will not rest unless he has resolved the matter today.”

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 3:18 presents Naomi's profound wisdom and confident reassurance to Ruth following her encounter with Boaz at the threshing floor. Naomi, drawing upon her deep understanding of Boaz's character and the intricate legal customs of their society, counsels Ruth to wait patiently and trust that Boaz, a man of integrity and resolve, will swiftly and decisively bring the matter of her redemption and marriage to a complete and satisfactory conclusion before the day ends. This verse encapsulates a pivotal moment of transition from uncertainty to hopeful expectation, grounded in the trustworthiness of Boaz and, implicitly, the providence of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climax of the immediate narrative following Ruth's daring and obedient act at the threshing floor, as instructed by Naomi in [Ruth 3:4](/ruth/3-4 "Ruth 3:4 - Naomi's Instructions to Ruth"). Ruth has returned from her nocturnal encounter with Boaz, who, recognizing her virtue and loyalty, has promised to act as her kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: *goel*). The preceding verses detail Boaz's surprise, his commendation of Ruth's character over younger men, and his commitment to fulfill the redemptive duty, even acknowledging a closer kinsman. Naomi's counsel is a direct response to Ruth's account, providing the final, crucial instruction for Ruth to remain calm and trust the process. It sets the stage for Boaz's immediate action in [Ruth 4:1](/ruth/4-1 "Ruth 4:1 - Boaz Goes to the City Gate"), demonstrating the fulfillment of Naomi's prophetic confidence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The passage is deeply embedded in the legal and social customs of ancient Israel. The concept of the *goel* (kinsman-redeemer) was central, obligating the nearest male relative to redeem family land, protect the family name, and, in cases like Ruth's, marry the widow to raise up offspring for the deceased husband (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). This was not merely a personal favor but a sacred duty. The "matter" refers to the complex legal proceedings that Boaz must undertake at the city gate, the public forum for legal transactions and disputes. Naomi's emphasis on "this day" underscores the urgency and Boaz's commitment to swift action, reflecting a society where legal matters were often resolved promptly to avoid prolonged uncertainty and maintain social order. Her advice to "sit still" also reflects the limited agency women often had in such legal proceedings, relying on the integrity of the male kinsman.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Ruth. **Patience and Trust** are paramount, as Naomi's instruction to "Sit still, my daughter" encourages Ruth to move from active pursuit to confident waiting, trusting in Boaz's integrity and God's overarching plan. This echoes broader biblical calls to [wait patiently for the Lord](/psalms/37-7 "Psalm 37:7 - Waiting on the Lord"). **Boaz's Integrity and Resolve** are highlighted; his character is portrayed as one of unwavering commitment, a man who will not rest until his word is fulfilled, setting him apart as a model of righteousness. Naomi's **Wise Counsel** is evident, showcasing the invaluable role of seasoned wisdom and discernment in guiding younger generations through complex situations. Finally, underlying Naomi's confidence is an implicit faith in **Divine Providence**, suggesting that God is sovereignly orchestrating these events, using human agents like Boaz, to bring about redemption and restoration for her family, ultimately leading to the lineage of David and Christ, as seen in the broader narrative of [Ruth](/ruth/1 "The Book of Ruth - A Story of Loyalty and Redemption").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sit still (Hebrew, _yashab'_):** This word conveys more than just physical inactivity; it implies remaining, settling down, or quietly waiting with a sense of calm and confident expectation. In this context, it's a call for Ruth to cease her efforts and trust that the situation is now in capable hands, rather than to fret or interfere. It suggests a posture of rest and assurance, a cessation of anxious striving.
* **Will not be in rest (Hebrew, _shaqat'_):** This phrase describes a state of lacking quietness, tranquility, or peace. It emphasizes Boaz's strong sense of duty and his determination. He is depicted as a man driven by his word and commitment, unable to find inner peace or settle down until he has completed the task he promised. This highlights his proactive and responsible character, underscoring his integrity.
* **Finished the thing (Hebrew, _kalah ha'davar'_):** This refers to the complete and conclusive resolution of the matter. It signifies that Boaz will not merely begin the process but will see it through to its absolute finality, ensuring all legal and social requirements are met. It speaks to the thoroughness and decisiveness of his character, reinforcing Naomi's confidence in his ability to bring the complex situation to a definitive close.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said she, Sit still, my daughter,"**: Naomi, with her characteristic wisdom and maternal care, advises Ruth to cease her anxious waiting or potential interference. The phrase "sit still" (Hebrew: *yashab*) implies a posture of calm, patient, and confident waiting, rather than passive resignation. It's an instruction to trust in the unfolding process and the integrity of Boaz, acknowledging that Ruth has done her part and now must allow events to proceed.
* **"until thou know how the matter will fall:"**: This clause sets the duration and purpose of Ruth's waiting. She is to remain in a state of confident expectation until the outcome of the legal and social situation becomes clear. "The matter" refers to Boaz's commitment to act as kinsman-redeemer, which involves navigating the legal complexities with the closer kinsman. Naomi's counsel here suggests that the resolution is assured, and Ruth will soon witness its successful conclusion.
* **"for the man will not be in rest,"**: This explains the basis of Naomi's confidence: Boaz's character. The phrase "will not be in rest" (Hebrew: *shaqat*) powerfully conveys Boaz's driven nature and commitment. He is a man of integrity who, having given his word, will feel an internal compulsion to fulfill it without delay. His peace and tranquility are contingent upon the completion of his duty, highlighting his strong moral compass and sense of responsibility.
* **"until he have finished the thing this day."**: This final clause specifies the absolute certainty and immediacy of Boaz's action. "Finished the thing" (Hebrew: *kalah ha'davar*) emphasizes a complete and decisive resolution, not just a partial attempt. The crucial addition "this day" underscores Boaz's swiftness and determination; he will not procrastinate but will act promptly and conclusively within the very day, fulfilling Naomi's prophecy and demonstrating his unwavering commitment.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices. **Characterization** is prominent, primarily through Naomi's description of Boaz. He is portrayed as a man of unwavering integrity, diligence, and resolve, whose word is his bond. This indirect characterization builds upon the positive portrayal of Boaz throughout the book. There is also a strong element of **Foreshadowing**; Naomi's confident prediction that "the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day" directly anticipates Boaz's immediate and decisive action at the city gate in the very next chapter ([Ruth 4:1](/ruth/4-1 "Ruth 4:1 - Boaz Acts at the Gate")). The use of **Antithesis** is subtle but effective in "sit still" versus "will not be in rest," highlighting the contrast between Ruth's instructed posture of waiting and Boaz's active, determined pursuit of resolution. Finally, the phrase "the man" acts as a form of **Metonymy**, where "the man" stands for Boaz's entire character and reputation for trustworthiness and honorable action.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 3:18 beautifully illustrates the interplay between human responsibility and divine providence. Naomi's counsel to "sit still" is not a call to passive fatalism but to active trust, recognizing that while human agents (like Boaz) are diligent, the ultimate outcome rests in God's sovereign hand. It underscores the biblical principle of waiting on the Lord, not in idleness, but in confident expectation that He works through His chosen instruments to bring about His purposes. Boaz's integrity and immediate action serve as a model of righteous human agency, demonstrating how a person committed to God's ways acts decisively and honorably. The verse also highlights the value of wise, godly counsel in navigating life's uncertainties, providing comfort and direction when one has done all they can and must now trust for the resolution. It reminds us that God often works through faithful individuals to accomplish His redemptive plans, bringing order and restoration out of complex situations.

* [Psalm 27:14](/psalms/27-14 "Psalm 27:14 - Wait for the Lord")
* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord")
* [Isaiah 30:15](/isaiah/30-15 "Isaiah 30:15 - In Quietness and Trust")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 3:18 offers profound lessons for believers navigating periods of uncertainty or waiting. Just as Naomi instructed Ruth to "sit still," we are often called to a posture of patient trust after we have done our part in a situation. This "sitting still" is not idleness but an active confidence that God, who is faithful, is at work, often through the integrity and diligence of others He has appointed. It challenges us to release our anxieties and trust in His timing and methods, knowing that He is sovereignly orchestrating events for our good and His glory. Furthermore, Boaz's character serves as a powerful example for us: a man of his word, driven by a sense of duty and integrity, who finds no rest until he has completed what is right. This encourages us to be people of similar resolve, fulfilling our commitments and responsibilities with diligence and honor, reflecting God's own faithfulness. The wisdom of Naomi also reminds us of the invaluable role of godly mentors and counselors in our lives, whose seasoned discernment can provide comfort and clear direction when we feel lost or anxious.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you currently being called to "sit still" and trust God's timing, rather than striving in your own strength?**
* **How does Boaz's commitment to "not be in rest until he have finished the thing" challenge or inspire your own sense of integrity and diligence in fulfilling your responsibilities?**
* **Who are the "Naomis" in your life whose wise counsel you should seek and heed when facing uncertainty?**
* **How does this verse deepen your understanding of the interplay between human action and divine providence in your own life?**

### FAQ
**Why was Naomi so confident that Boaz would act immediately and decisively?**

Answer: Naomi's confidence stemmed from several factors, deeply rooted in her understanding of both Boaz's character and the societal customs of their time. First, Boaz had already demonstrated his integrity and generosity throughout the narrative, particularly in his treatment of Ruth in [Ruth 2](/ruth/2 "Ruth 2 - Ruth Gleans in Boaz's Fields"). Second, he had explicitly given his word to Ruth at the threshing floor, promising to act as her kinsman-redeemer if the closer kinsman declined ([Ruth 3:13](/ruth/3-13 "Ruth 3:13 - Boaz's Promise to Ruth")). In ancient Israel, a man's word, especially regarding such a significant legal and social obligation, was paramount to his honor. Third, Naomi knew that a man of Boaz's standing and righteousness would not delay in fulfilling such a duty, particularly to avoid any potential scandal or prolonged uncertainty for Ruth. The phrase "will not be in rest" highlights his internal compulsion to act. Finally, the legal proceedings for redemption were typically conducted publicly at the city gate, and prompt resolution was often desired to maintain social order and prevent lingering disputes. Naomi's seasoned wisdom allowed her to accurately predict Boaz's immediate and decisive action.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 3:18, with its emphasis on Boaz's unwavering resolve to complete the work of redemption, beautifully foreshadows the ultimate and decisive work of Jesus Christ, our Kinsman-Redeemer. Just as Boaz "would not be in rest until he had finished the thing," so too was Christ utterly committed to accomplishing the salvation of His people. His journey to the cross was not one of hesitation but of resolute determination, for He "set His face to go to Jerusalem" ([Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - Jesus Sets His Face Toward Jerusalem")). The "thing" that Christ came to finish was the complete and perfect redemption of humanity from sin and death. On the cross, His cry, "It is finished!" ([John 19:30](/john/19-30 "John 19:30 - Jesus' Last Words")), echoes Boaz's commitment to "finish the thing this day," signifying the complete and final accomplishment of His atoning work. We, like Ruth, are called to "sit still" in confident rest, not in our own efforts, but in the finished work of Christ. Our peace and salvation are not contingent on our striving but on His perfect integrity and His decisive action. He has gone to the "gate" of heaven, having secured our redemption, and now sits at the right hand of God, interceding for us ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")). We can rest assured, for our Redeemer will not be in rest until He has brought all things to their glorious conclusion, just as He promised ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of Faith")).

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

Psalms 37:3

Trust in the LORD, and do good; [so] shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.

Psalms 37:5

Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring [it] to pass.

Isaiah 28:16

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

Isaiah 30:7

For the Egyptians shall help in vain, and to no purpose: therefore have I cried concerning this, Their strength [is] to sit still.