This is the literal reading of the Hebrew. But it is obvious that Naomi knew this to be Ruth, for immediately she adds the words “my daughter.” Taking Naomi’s question as an idiomatic expression, various translators make of it an inquiry as to the success of Ruth’s mission, for instance, “How did you fare, my daughter” (RSV)? The context seems to warrant such a translation, for in reply Ruth tells her all that had happened.