Ruth 4:9

At this, Boaz said to the elders and all the people, "You are witnesses today that I am buying from Naomi all that belonged to Elimelech, Chilion, and Mahlon.

Study Bible

Then Boaz said
Boaz, a man of integrity and a kinsman-redeemer, steps forward to fulfill his duty. His name in Hebrew, "בֹּעַז" (Boaz), means "swift" or "strength," reflecting his decisive and strong character. In the context of ancient Israel, Boaz's actions are not just personal but communal, as he addresses the elders and the people, emphasizing the public nature of his commitment.

to the elders and all the people
The elders were respected leaders within the community, often serving as judges or decision-makers. Their presence signifies the legal and communal validation of Boaz's actions. In ancient Israel, community involvement was crucial in legal matters, ensuring transparency and accountability. The phrase "all the people" indicates that this was a public event, witnessed by many, underscoring the importance of community in covenantal relationships.

Today you are witnesses
The concept of witnesses is deeply rooted in Hebrew culture, where legal transactions required the presence of witnesses to confirm and validate the proceedings. The Hebrew word for witness, "עֵד" (ed), implies not just observation but a moral responsibility to uphold the truth. Boaz's declaration emphasizes the solemnity and legality of the transaction, binding the community to remember and uphold this covenant.

that I have bought from Naomi
The act of buying here is not merely a financial transaction but a redemptive act. Naomi, whose name means "pleasant," had faced bitterness and loss. Boaz's purchase is an act of restoration, bringing hope and security back to Naomi's life. This reflects the biblical theme of redemption, where God often uses individuals to restore and redeem what was lost.

all the property of Elimelech, Chilion, and Mahlon
Elimelech, whose name means "My God is King," had left Bethlehem during a famine, leading to the family's struggles. Chilion and Mahlon, his sons, also faced untimely deaths. The mention of their names signifies the restoration of their legacy and inheritance. In Hebrew culture, land was not just property but a divine inheritance, tied to identity and family lineage. Boaz's redemption of the land ensures the continuation of Elimelech's family line, fulfilling the Levirate law and God's covenant promises to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A wealthy and influential man from Bethlehem, Boaz is a kinsman-redeemer who steps forward to marry Ruth and redeem the land belonging to Naomi's family.

2. Naomi
The mother-in-law of Ruth, Naomi returned to Bethlehem from Moab after the death of her husband, Elimelech, and her two sons, Chilion and Mahlon.

3. Elimelech, Chilion, and Mahlon
Elimelech was Naomi's husband, and Chilion and Mahlon were her sons. Their deaths left Naomi and Ruth in a vulnerable position, necessitating the redemption of their land.

4. Elders and People
The elders and people of Bethlehem serve as witnesses to the legal transaction Boaz is making, which was a customary practice in ancient Israel to ensure community accountability.

5. Bethlehem
The setting of this event, Bethlehem is a significant location in biblical history, known as the birthplace of King David and later, Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer
Boaz exemplifies the role of a kinsman-redeemer, a concept that points to Christ as our ultimate Redeemer. Just as Boaz redeemed Naomi's family, Jesus redeems us from sin.

Community and Accountability
The presence of witnesses underscores the importance of community and accountability in our commitments and actions. We are called to live transparently and honorably within our communities.

Faithfulness and Provision
Boaz's faithfulness to God's law and his willingness to provide for Naomi and Ruth demonstrate God's provision through human agents. We are encouraged to be instruments of God's provision for others.

God's Sovereignty in Redemption
The account of Ruth and Boaz illustrates God's sovereignty in orchestrating redemption. Even in difficult circumstances, God is at work to bring about His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer reflect the character and mission of Jesus Christ as our Redeemer?

2. In what ways can we, like Boaz, act as agents of God's provision and redemption in the lives of those around us?

3. What does the presence of witnesses in Boaz's transaction teach us about the importance of community and accountability in our own lives?

4. How does the account of Ruth and Boaz encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when our circumstances seem bleak?

5. How can we apply the principles of faithfulness and obedience to God's Word, as demonstrated by Boaz, in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:25
This verse outlines the law of redemption, where a close relative can redeem land sold by a family member. Boaz's actions are a direct application of this law.

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
This passage describes the levirate marriage, where a brother-in-law marries the widow to preserve the family line. Boaz's marriage to Ruth fulfills this duty, even though he is not a brother-in-law.

Matthew 1:5-6
This genealogy of Jesus includes Boaz and Ruth, highlighting the significance of their union in the lineage of Christ.