KJV ORIGINAL
And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
And she said, 'He gave me these six measures of barley, because he told me, "Don't go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed."'
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
Ruth is telling Naomi that Boaz was so generous and thoughtful that he made sure she wouldn't return home without a gift to share.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Israel, returning empty-handed from a significant encounter was considered shameful and showed lack of blessing or favor. Boaz's gift of six measures of barley (a substantial amount) demonstrated both his wealth and his intention to honor both Ruth and Naomi. This generous gesture also signaled to the community that Ruth had found favor and protection.
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