The cultural implications of the Hebrew expression, “you have made this last kindness greater than the first,” need to be brought out in the receptor language; e.g., Good News Bible: “You are showing even greater loyalty in what you are doing now than in what you did for your mother-in-law.” The problems connected with Boaz’ introductory words, “May you be blessed by the Lord, my daughter,” have already been discussed. Boaz is not a priest, and thus it is not at all clear (if the expression is rendered literally) why he is wishing God’s “blessing” upon Ruth.

Source: Wendland 1987, p. 179.