Ruth 4:5

Then Boaz said, "On the day you buy the land from Naomi and also from Ruth the Moabitess, you must also acquire the widow of the deceased in order to raise up the name of the deceased on his inheritance."

Study Bible

Then Boaz said
This phrase introduces Boaz as the speaker, a man of integrity and a kinsman-redeemer. In Hebrew, the name "Boaz" means "strength" or "in him is strength," reflecting his role as a protector and provider. Boaz's words are pivotal, as he is about to reveal the full responsibility of the kinsman-redeemer, which goes beyond mere property acquisition.

On the day you buy the field
The phrase "on the day" indicates immediacy and urgency. The transaction is not just a future possibility but an imminent action. The "field" represents the land that belonged to Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. In ancient Israel, land was a critical component of family heritage and identity, deeply tied to God's covenant promises to His people.

from Naomi
Naomi, whose name means "pleasant," has returned to Bethlehem after a period of hardship in Moab. She is a widow, and her return signifies a hope for restoration. The land is technically hers to sell, but it is also tied to her deceased husband's lineage, which must be preserved.

you must also acquire Ruth the Moabitess
The inclusion of Ruth, identified as "the Moabitess," highlights her foreign origin. Despite being a Moabite, Ruth has shown extraordinary loyalty to Naomi and faith in the God of Israel. The Hebrew word for "acquire" here implies a legal and covenantal obligation, not merely a transaction. Ruth's inclusion in the deal underscores the law of levirate marriage, where a relative marries the widow to produce offspring for the deceased.

the wife of the deceased
This phrase emphasizes Ruth's status as a widow, which in the cultural and legal context of ancient Israel, places her in a vulnerable position. The "deceased" refers to Mahlon, Naomi's son and Ruth's late husband. The mention of the deceased underscores the duty to honor and continue his lineage.

in order to perpetuate the name of the dead
The concept of perpetuating a name is deeply rooted in the Hebrew tradition, where a person's name and lineage are tied to their identity and legacy. The Hebrew word for "perpetuate" suggests a continuation or revival of something that was lost. This duty reflects God's concern for family and heritage, ensuring that the deceased's name does not vanish from Israel.

through his inheritance
The "inheritance" refers to the land and the family line that must be preserved. In the Hebrew context, inheritance is not just about property but about maintaining the covenantal promises given to the ancestors. This phrase highlights the broader theological theme of redemption and restoration, as Boaz's actions will restore both property and family lineage, reflecting God's redemptive work in history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A prominent and wealthy man from Bethlehem, Boaz is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. He is a kinsman-redeemer, a role that involves protecting the interests of needy family members.

2. Ruth
A Moabite widow and the daughter-in-law of Naomi. Ruth is known for her loyalty and faithfulness to Naomi and her God.

3. Naomi
The mother-in-law of Ruth, who returned to Bethlehem from Moab after the death of her husband and sons. She plays a crucial role in guiding Ruth.

4. The Kinsman-Redeemer
A close relative who has the responsibility to redeem a family member in distress, which includes marrying the widow of a deceased relative to preserve the family line.

5. The Elders and People at the Gate
The city gate was a place of legal transactions and public gatherings. The elders and people present serve as witnesses to Boaz's actions.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer
Boaz's willingness to act as a kinsman-redeemer reflects God's provision and care for His people. It is a picture of Christ's redemptive work for humanity.

Faithfulness and Loyalty
Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her willingness to embrace the God of Israel demonstrate the power of faithfulness and commitment in relationships.

God's Sovereignty and Providence
The events in Ruth's life show God's hand at work, orchestrating circumstances for His purposes. Trusting in God's sovereignty can bring peace in uncertain times.

Community and Accountability
The presence of the elders and people at the gate underscores the importance of community and accountability in making significant life decisions.

Redemption and Restoration
The account of Ruth and Boaz is a powerful account of redemption and restoration, reminding believers of the hope and new beginnings found in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer reflect the character of God, and how can we emulate this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Ruth's loyalty to Naomi challenge us to be more faithful in our relationships?

3. How can we see God's providence in the account of Ruth, and how does this encourage us to trust Him in our own circumstances?

4. What role does community play in the decision-making process in Ruth 4:5, and how can we apply this principle in our church or family?

5. How does the concept of redemption in Ruth's account point to the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ, and how can this truth impact our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:25-28
This passage outlines the laws of redemption, which provide the background for the role of the kinsman-redeemer. It emphasizes the importance of family and community support in times of need.

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
This scripture details the levirate marriage law, which is relevant to Boaz's role in marrying Ruth to preserve the family line of Elimelech.

Matthew 1:5
This verse connects Ruth to the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her significance in the lineage of Christ and God's redemptive plan.