## my daughter ## Boaz used this expression as a sign of respect towards Ruth as a younger woman. ## more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning ## "even more kindness now than before" ## more kindness in the later end ## This refers to Ruth asking Boaz to marry her. By marrying Naomi's relative, Ruth would provide for Naomi and demonstrate great kindness to Naomi. ## inasmuch as you have not pursued ## "instead of pursuing." Ruth could have ignored Naomi's need and looked for a husband for herself outside of Naomi's relatives. ## at the beginning ## This refers to the way Ruth had earlier provided for her mother-in-law by staying with her and gleaning grain for food for them.