Ruth 3:12
What does Ruth 3:12 mean?
A plain-English look at Ruth 3:12 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Ruth 3:12 means
Boaz acknowledges the truth of Ruth’s claim—he is a near kinsman—but adds a crucial detail: there is another relative even closer. He refuses to seize the moment for himself, choosing instead to honor the proper order of redemption. This candor protects both Ruth and the family inheritance from future dispute. It also shows Boaz’s God-fearing integrity: he will do right, even if it means surrendering personal desire. The revelation introduces tension, but it is a righteous tension, governed by law and love, not by impulse. Redemption must be pursued in the light, not in the shadows.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And now it is true that I am a near kinsman; howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And now it is true that I am a near kinsman; howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Now it is true that I am a near relation: but there is a relation nearer than I.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And now, surely, true, that I <FI>am<Fi> a redeemer, but also there is a redeemer nearer than I.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Neither do I deny myself to be near of kin, but there is another nearer than I.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And now, truly I am one that has the right of redemption, yet there is one that has the right of redemption who is nearer than I.
Context
Having affirmed Ruth’s character and request, Boaz now discloses the legal obstacle. This sets up the plot for resolution in the morning and in the next chapter’s public proceedings. The following verse will contain Boaz’s plan to address the matter promptly, showing that integrity moves with both patience and zeal to do things properly.
v.11And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou sayest; for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a worthy woman.
v.12This passage
v.13Tarry 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.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:6
that no man transgress, and wrong his brother in the matter: because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as also we forewarned you and testified.
- Ruth 4:1
Now Boaz went up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the near kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by; unto whom he said, Ho, such a one! turn aside, sit down here. And he turned aside, and sat down.
- Matthew 7:12
All things therefore whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, even so do ye also unto them: for this is the law and the prophets.
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