And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman.
And now, my daughter, don't be afraid; I will do everything you have asked of me, because everyone in town knows that you are a woman of excellent character.
Boaz is reassuring Ruth that he will help her because her good reputation is known throughout their community.
📚 Historical Context
Boaz is responding to Ruth's request that he marry her as her kinsman-redeemer, a cultural practice where a relative would marry a widow to preserve the family line and property. Ruth had courageously approached Boaz at night on the threshing floor, following her mother-in-law Naomi's advice. In ancient Israel, a woman's reputation for virtue and character was crucial for her standing in the community.
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