Ruth 4:10

Moreover, I have acquired Ruth the Moabitess, Mahlon's widow, as my wife, to raise up the name of the deceased through his inheritance, so that his name will not disappear from among his brothers or from the gate of his home. You are witnesses today."

Study Bible

Moreover, I have acquired
The phrase "I have acquired" in Hebrew is "קָנִיתִי" (qaniti), which implies a legal transaction or purchase. In the context of ancient Israel, this reflects the cultural and legal practices of levirate marriage and property redemption. Boaz's declaration is not merely about possession but about fulfilling a duty of love and loyalty, ensuring the continuation of a family line. This act of redemption is a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work for humanity, where He "acquired" us through His sacrifice.

Ruth the Moabitess
Ruth's identity as "the Moabitess" is significant. The Moabites were often seen as outsiders and enemies of Israel, yet Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of David, and ultimately Jesus, highlights God's grace and the breaking of ethnic barriers. Her account is a testament to the inclusivity of God's love and the transformative power of faith and loyalty.

Mahlon’s widow
Identifying Ruth as "Mahlon’s widow" emphasizes her previous marriage and the duty Boaz is undertaking. In Hebrew culture, a widow was often left vulnerable, and the levirate marriage was a means of protection and provision. This highlights the compassionate and righteous character of Boaz, who steps in to fulfill this role, reflecting God's care for the marginalized.

as my wife
The phrase "as my wife" signifies the formalization of the marriage covenant. In biblical times, marriage was not only a personal commitment but a communal and legal one. Boaz's public declaration underscores the importance of community witness and accountability in covenant relationships, mirroring the covenant relationship between God and His people.

to raise up the name of the deceased
This phrase refers to the practice of preserving a deceased man's lineage through offspring. In Hebrew, "to raise up" (לְהָקִים, lehakim) conveys the idea of establishing or restoring. Boaz's commitment to "raise up the name" is an act of selflessness and honor, ensuring that Mahlon's legacy continues. This reflects the biblical theme of resurrection and new life, pointing to the hope found in Christ.

on his inheritance
The concept of "inheritance" in Hebrew (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) is deeply rooted in the Promised Land and God's covenant with Israel. It signifies not just land but identity, belonging, and divine promise. Boaz's actions ensure that Mahlon's inheritance remains within the family, symbolizing the faithfulness of God in preserving His promises to His people.

so that his name will not disappear
The preservation of a name in Hebrew culture was synonymous with the preservation of one's legacy and memory. The fear of a name disappearing was akin to being forgotten or erased from history. Boaz's actions ensure that Mahlon's name endures, reflecting the eternal nature of God's covenant with His people, where He promises that their names are written in the Book of Life.

from among his brothers
This phrase highlights the communal aspect of Hebrew society, where family and tribal connections were paramount. The brothers represent the larger family unit, and Boaz's actions ensure that Mahlon's place within this community is maintained. It underscores the biblical principle of community and the interconnectedness of God's people.

or from the gate of his hometown
The "gate" was the place of legal transactions and community gatherings in ancient Israel. It was where elders and leaders met to make decisions and witness agreements. Boaz's declaration at the gate signifies the public and legal nature of his commitment, ensuring transparency and accountability. It reflects the importance of community validation in biblical covenants.

You are witnesses today
The role of witnesses in this context is crucial. In Hebrew culture, witnesses provided legitimacy and accountability to legal transactions. Boaz's call for witnesses underscores the communal nature of his commitment and the importance of integrity and truth in fulfilling one's duties. It serves as a reminder of the witness of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, affirming our identity and inheritance in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, Boaz is a kinsman-redeemer for Naomi's family. He is a man of integrity and compassion, who takes on the responsibility of marrying Ruth to preserve the family lineage.

2. Ruth
A Moabite widow who remains loyal to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Her faithfulness and dedication lead her to become part of the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.

3. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who returns to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons. She plays a crucial role in guiding Ruth and orchestrating her marriage to Boaz.

4. Bethlehem
The setting of the account, Bethlehem is significant as the birthplace of King David and later, Jesus Christ. It is a place of redemption and fulfillment of God's promises.

5. The Elders and People at the Gate
Witnesses to the legal transaction between Boaz and the unnamed kinsman-redeemer. Their presence signifies the community's role in affirming Boaz's actions.

Teaching Points

Redemption and Responsibility
Boaz's willingness to redeem Ruth and Naomi's family line demonstrates the importance of taking responsibility for others, reflecting Christ's redemptive work for humanity.

Faithfulness and Loyalty
Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and Boaz's commitment to Ruth exemplify the virtues of faithfulness and loyalty, which are central to Christian relationships.

God's Sovereignty and Providence
The events in Ruth's life show God's sovereign hand at work, orchestrating circumstances for His purposes. Trusting in God's providence is crucial for believers.

Community and Witness
The role of the community in affirming Boaz's actions highlights the importance of accountability and support within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth 4:10 reflect Christ's redemptive work for us?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate faithfulness and loyalty in our relationships, as seen in the account of Ruth and Boaz?

3. How does the inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite, in the lineage of Jesus challenge our understanding of God's grace and inclusion?

4. What can we learn from the community's role in affirming Boaz's actions, and how can we apply this to our church communities today?

5. How does the account of Ruth encourage us to trust in God's providence, even when circumstances seem uncertain?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The concept of a kinsman-redeemer is also seen in Leviticus 25, where the law provides for a relative to redeem property or a person in need. This reflects God's provision and care for His people.

The genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1 includes Ruth, highlighting her significance in God's redemptive plan and the inclusion of Gentiles in His covenant.

The account of Ruth parallels the faithfulness and loyalty seen in the relationship between Jonathan and David, as described in 1 Samuel.