◄ Ruth 4 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Boaz Redeems Ruth 1Meanwhile, Boaz went to the gate and sat down there. Soon the kinsman-redeemera of whom he had spoken came along, and Boaz said, “Come over here, my friend, and sit down.” So he went over and sat down. 2Then Boaz took ten of the elders of the city and said, “Sit here,” and they did so. 3And he said to the kinsman-redeemer, “Naomi, who has returned from the land of Moab, is selling the piece of land that belonged to our brother Elimelech. 4I thought I should inform you that you may buy it back in the presence of those seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people. If you want to redeem it, do so. But if youb will not redeem it, tell me so I may know, because there is no one but you to redeem it, and I am next after you.” “I will redeem it,” he replied. 5Then 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.” 6The kinsman-redeemer replied, “I cannot redeem it myself, or I would jeopardize my own inheritance. Take my right of redemption, because I cannot redeem it.” 7Now in former times in Israel, concerning the redemption or exchange of property, to make any matter legally binding a man would remove his sandal and give it to the other party, and this was a confirmation in Israel. 8So the kinsman-redeemer removed his sandal and said to Boaz, “Buy it for yourself.” 9At 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. 10Moreover, 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.” 11“We are witnesses,” said the elders and all the people at the gate. “May the LORD make the woman entering your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel. May you be prosperous in Ephrathah and famous in Bethlehem. 12And may your house become like the house of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah, because of the offspring the LORD will give you by this young woman.” Boaz Marries Ruth 13So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And when he had relations with her, the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. 14Then the women said to Naomi, “Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a kinsman-redeemer. May his name become famous in Israel. 15He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.” 16And Naomi took the child, placed him on her lap, and became a nurse to him. 17The neighbor women said, “A son has been born to Naomi,” and they named him Obed. He became the father of Jesse, the father of David. The Line of David (Matthew 1:1–17; Luke 3:23–38) 18Now these are the generations of Perez: Perez was the father of Hezron, 19Hezron was the father of Ram, Ram was the father of Amminadab, 20Amminadab was the father of Nahshon, Nahshon was the father of Salmon,c 21Salmon was the father of Boaz, Boaz was the father of Obed, 22Obed was the father of Jesse, and Jesse was the father of David. Footnotes: 1 a The Hebrew word for kinsman-redeemer or guardian-redeemer is a legal term for the kinsman who redeems or vindicates a relative; also in verses 3, 6, 8, and 14; see Leviticus 25:25–55. 4 b Many Hebrew manuscripts, LXX, Vulgate, and Syriac; most Hebrew manuscripts he 20 c A few Hebrew manuscripts, some LXX manuscripts, and Vulgate (see also verse 21 and LXX of 1 Chronicles 2:11); most Hebrew manuscripts Salma Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ruth 4 Summary Boaz Redeems Ruth Verses 1–4 – Boaz Seeks Legal Resolution at the Gate Boaz sits at Bethlehem’s gate, gathers ten elders, and calls the nearer relative. He announces that Naomi is selling Elimelech’s field and offers the right of purchase. The man agrees—so far. Verses 5–8 – The First Redeemer Steps Aside Boaz adds that the buyer must also marry Ruth to preserve Mahlon’s name. The relative backs out, worrying about his own estate, and hands over his sandal, legally transferring the right to Boaz. Verses 9–12 – Boaz Redeems Ruth and Receives Blessings Boaz publicly claims the land and Ruth. The elders bless the couple: may Ruth be like Rachel and Leah, and may Boaz’s house be like that of Perez. Verses 13–17 – Birth of Obed and Naomi’s Joy The LORD enables Ruth to conceive. Their son Obed restores Naomi’s hope; the women praise God for the “guardian-redeemer” and call Ruth better than seven sons. Verses 18–22 – Genealogy from Perez to David The line runs from Perez to David through Obed and Jesse, anchoring the account in Israel’s royal heritage. Ruth 4 is the final chapter in the Book of Ruth and it carries significant historical and theological implications. This chapter centers on the resolution of a complex social and religious dilemma: the redemption of the deceased Elimelech's estate and Ruth's future through a form of ancient Israelite marriage called Levirate Marriage. The chapter also establishes the lineage of King David, linking him to Boaz and Ruth, and indirectly to Naomi. Historical Background: Life at the City Gate Ancient city gates functioned as both courtroom and town hall. Excavations at sites such as Tel Dan reveal stone benches built into gate complexes where elders judged matters (cf. Deuteronomy 16:18). By sitting there, Boaz meets legal requirements and ensures public witness. The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer Hebrew go’el means “one who redeems.” • Leviticus 25:25–27 commands a near relative to buy back land sold under hardship. • Deuteronomy 25:5–10 describes marrying the widow to keep the dead man’s name alive. Boaz fulfills both duties. His actions picture God, who “redeemed us through His blood” (Ephesians 1:7). Land, Name, and Legacy Land in Israel was tied to family identity (Numbers 36:7). Losing it meant erasing a name from history. Boaz’s willingness safeguards Elimelech’s line and shows self-sacrifice; the unnamed relative’s refusal illustrates self-protection. The Sandal Ceremony Ruth 4:7 notes an older custom: handing over a sandal sealed property transfers. Deuteronomy 25:9 also links sandal removal to levirate duty. Archaeologists have found fourth-century BC ostraca (potsherd inscriptions) recording land sales that cite public witnesses, mirroring the narrative pattern. Blessing Prayers and Their Roots • “Like Rachel and Leah” (v 11) recalls the mothers of Israel’s twelve tribes (Genesis 29–30). • “May your house be like Perez” (v 12) nods to Tamar’s unusual but honored account (Genesis 38). Both blessings underscore God’s power to work through unexpected people. Ruth’s Childbirth and God’s Active Involvement “The LORD enabled her to conceive” (v 13). The phrasing echoes Sarah (Genesis 21:1), Rachel (Genesis 30:22), and Hannah (1 Samuel 1:19–20), spotlighting God as giver of life. Obed’s birth shifts Naomi from emptiness (1:21) to fullness. Naomi: From Bitter to Joyful Her neighbors once heard her rename herself Mara, “bitter” (1:20). Now they place Obed in her arms and declare, “He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age” (v 15). Naomi’s personal restoration parallels Israel’s future hope of redemption. From Perez to David – Why the Genealogy Matters Verses 18–22 bridge the period of the judges with the coming monarchy. Salmon married Rahab (Matthew 1:5), another outsider brought into God’s plan. Boaz, Obed, and Jesse lead straight to David, fulfilling Jacob’s prophecy that kings would come from Judah (Genesis 49:10). Matthew 1:5–6 and Luke 3:31–32 carry the line onward to Jesus. Archaeological Notes on Bethlehem and Judah • Proto-alphabetic inscriptions from the 10th century BC mention Bethlehem, supporting its existence in David’s era. • Agricultural terraces still ring the modern town, matching Ruth’s gleaning context. • Clay bullae (seal impressions) bearing names like “Hezron” and “Ram” have surfaced in the Judean hills, illustrating the practice of preserving family identity on small clay seals. A Foreshadowing of Greater Redemption Boaz pays the price, takes a foreign bride, and secures her future—an earthly picture of Christ who “gave Himself to redeem us” (Titus 2:14). Ruth, a Moabite, is grafted into Israel, hinting at Gentiles being brought into God’s family (Ephesians 2:12–13). Key Cross-References • Isaiah 54:5 – “Your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.” • Psalm 107:2 – “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so.” • Galatians 3:13 – Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law. Practical Encouragement for Today • God’s plans include ordinary decisions made with integrity. • No past—national, family, or personal—disqualifies anyone from His story. • The Lord values covenant loyalty; Boaz and Ruth model choosing faithfulness over convenience. Connections to Additional Scriptures Leviticus 25:25 Understanding the role of the kinsman-redeemer in Israelite law. Matthew 1:5-6 The genealogy of Jesus, connecting Ruth and Boaz to the lineage of Christ. Ephesians 1:7 Christ as our ultimate Redeemer, offering redemption through His blood. Galatians 3:28 The breaking down of ethnic and social barriers in Christ, as seen in Ruth's inclusion. Teaching Points The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer Boaz steps forward to fulfill the role of the kinsman-redeemer, a concept rooted in Levitical law (Leviticus 25:25). This act of redemption is a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work for humanity. Boaz's Integrity and Honor Boaz demonstrates integrity by addressing the nearer kinsman-redeemer first, respecting the legal and familial obligations (Ruth 4:1-6). His actions reflect a commitment to righteousness and honor. Ruth's Inclusion into the Covenant Community Ruth, a Moabite, is fully integrated into the Israelite community through her marriage to Boaz, illustrating God's inclusive love and the breaking down of ethnic barriers (Ruth 4:13). The Lineage of David The chapter concludes with a genealogy that connects Ruth and Boaz to King David, highlighting God's sovereign plan in using ordinary people to fulfill His extraordinary purposes (Ruth 4:17-22). Practical Applications Trust in God's Timing Just as Ruth and Naomi trusted in God's provision through Boaz, we are encouraged to trust in God's perfect timing and plan for our lives. Embrace Integrity Boaz's example challenges us to act with integrity and honor in our dealings with others, even when it may not be the easiest path. Value of Community and Family The account emphasizes the importance of community and family support, encouraging us to invest in and nurture these relationships. God's Redemption Recognize and celebrate the ways God redeems and restores our lives, using even our challenges for His greater purpose. People 1. Boaz Boaz is a central figure in Ruth 4. He is a wealthy landowner and a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. Boaz acts as the kinsman-redeemer for Ruth, marrying her to preserve the family line. The Hebrew root for "Boaz" (בֹּעַז) suggests strength or swiftness, reflecting his decisive actions in the narrative. 2. Ruth Ruth is a Moabite widow and the daughter-in-law of Naomi. Her loyalty to Naomi and her faith in the God of Israel are central themes in the book. In Ruth 4, she becomes the wife of Boaz and the great-grandmother of King David. The name "Ruth" (רוּת) is thought to mean "friend" or "companion." 3. Naomi Naomi is Ruth's mother-in-law, who returns to Bethlehem from Moab after the death of her husband and sons. She plays a crucial role in orchestrating the events that lead to Ruth's marriage to Boaz. Naomi's name (נָעֳמִי) means "pleasant" in Hebrew, though she refers to herself as "Mara" (מָרָא), meaning "bitter," due to her hardships. 4. The Kinsman-Redeemer (Unnamed) This is the closer relative to Naomi's family who initially has the right to redeem the land and marry Ruth but relinquishes his right to Boaz. His decision allows Boaz to fulfill the role of kinsman-redeemer. The Hebrew term for kinsman-redeemer is "go'el" (גֹּאֵל), which signifies a family protector or redeemer. 5. The Elders and People of the Town These are the witnesses at the city gate who affirm Boaz's legal transaction to redeem the land and marry Ruth. Their role is to provide communal validation and blessing for the union. The Hebrew word for elders is "zaqen" (זָקֵן), indicating their status as respected leaders in the community. Places 1. The Town Gate The town gate is a central location in ancient Israelite cities where legal matters, business transactions, and community gatherings took place. In Ruth 4:1, Boaz goes to the town gate to settle the matter of redeeming Naomi's land and marrying Ruth. The Hebrew word for gate, "שַׁעַר" (sha'ar), indicates a place of authority and decision-making. 2. Bethlehem While not explicitly mentioned in Ruth 4, Bethlehem is the overarching setting for the events of the book of Ruth. It is the town where Naomi and Ruth return to from Moab and where Boaz resides. Bethlehem, meaning "House of Bread" in Hebrew, is significant as the birthplace of King David and, later, Jesus Christ, linking the narrative to the broader biblical story. Events 1. Boaz Goes to the Town Gate Boaz goes to the town gate and sits down there. This location is significant as it was the place where legal matters and transactions were conducted in ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "gate" is "שַׁעַר" (sha'ar), indicating a place of authority and decision-making. 2. Boaz Convenes the Elders Boaz gathers ten elders of the town to serve as witnesses. The presence of elders underscores the legal and communal nature of the proceedings. The Hebrew term for "elders" is "זְקֵנִים" (z'kenim), referring to respected leaders within the community. 3. Boaz Speaks to the Kinsman-Redeemer Boaz addresses the closer kinsman-redeemer, explaining that Naomi is selling a piece of land that belonged to their relative Elimelech. The concept of a kinsman-redeemer, or "גֹּאֵל" (go'el), is rooted in the Hebrew tradition of family responsibility and redemption. 4. The Kinsman-Redeemer Declines The closer kinsman-redeemer initially agrees to redeem the land but declines when he learns he must also marry Ruth to maintain the deceased's family line. He fears it might endanger his own estate. The Hebrew word for "redeem" is "גָּאַל" (ga'al), emphasizing the act of reclaiming or restoring. 5. Boaz Redeems the Land and Marries Ruth Boaz declares his intention to redeem the land and marry Ruth, fulfilling the role of the kinsman-redeemer. This act of redemption is a central theme, highlighting Boaz's willingness to uphold family obligations and preserve the lineage. 6. The Sandal Exchange To formalize the transaction, the kinsman-redeemer removes his sandal and gives it to Boaz. This act symbolizes the transfer of redemption rights. The Hebrew custom of removing a sandal, "נַעַל" (na'al), signifies the relinquishment of one's claim. 7. Boaz's Declaration to the Elders and People Boaz publicly announces his purchase of the land and his marriage to Ruth, ensuring that the deceased's name will not disappear from among his family or hometown. The community witnesses affirm the transaction, underscoring its legitimacy. 8. The Blessing of the Elders and People The elders and people bless Boaz and Ruth, expressing hopes that Ruth will be like Rachel and Leah, who built the house of Israel. They also wish for Boaz's house to be like the house of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah, highlighting themes of legacy and continuity. 9. The Birth of Obed Ruth and Boaz have a son named Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. This event ties Ruth and Boaz into the lineage of David, and ultimately, the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as outlined in the New Testament. 10. Naomi's Restoration Naomi is restored through the birth of Obed, as the women of the town acknowledge the blessing of a redeemer for her family. Naomi's transformation from bitterness to joy is a testament to God's providence and faithfulness. Lessons from Ruth 4 1. Redemption is a Gift of Grace In Ruth 4, we witness Boaz stepping in as the kinsman-redeemer, a beautiful picture of grace and redemption. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, we are reminded of our own redemption through Christ. Ephesians 1:7 tells us, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace." This story encourages us to embrace the grace that has been freely given to us and to live in gratitude for the ultimate redemption we have in Jesus. 2. God’s Providence is Always at Work The events in Ruth 4 highlight how God orchestrates circumstances for His purposes. From Ruth's loyalty to Naomi to Boaz's willingness to redeem, every detail was part of God's divine plan. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, "A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." Trust that God is working behind the scenes in your life, even when you can't see it. 3. Faithfulness Leads to Blessing Ruth's faithfulness to Naomi and Boaz's integrity are central themes in this chapter. Their commitment to doing what is right leads to blessings beyond their imagination. As Galatians 6:9 encourages, "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Stay faithful in your walk, and trust that God will honor your commitment. 4. Community Matters The community plays a significant role in Ruth 4, witnessing and affirming the redemption process. This reminds us of the importance of being part of a supportive faith community. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another." Surround yourself with believers who will uplift and encourage you. 5. God’s Plans Surpass Our Expectations Ruth and Naomi's story ends with a lineage that leads to King David and ultimately to Jesus. This outcome was far beyond what they could have imagined. Ephesians 3:20 reminds us, "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." Trust that God’s plans for you are greater than you can envision. 6. Legacy of Faith The genealogy at the end of Ruth 4 highlights the importance of a legacy of faith. Ruth and Boaz's story is a testament to how God can use ordinary people to fulfill His extraordinary purposes. Psalm 145:4 says, "One generation will commend Your works to the next, and they shall proclaim Your mighty acts." Consider the legacy of faith you are building for future generations. 7. God Honors Humility Ruth's humble spirit and willingness to serve are evident throughout the book. Her humility is rewarded with a place in the lineage of Christ. James 4:10 encourages us, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." Embrace humility in your life, knowing that God honors those who serve with a humble heart. 8. Love is a Powerful Force The love story between Ruth and Boaz is a testament to the power of love rooted in faithfulness and commitment. 1 Corinthians 13:7 reminds us, "Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." Let love be the driving force in your relationships, reflecting the love of Christ to those around you. 9. God Uses the Unexpected Ruth, a Moabite widow, becomes part of the lineage of Christ, showing that God often uses the unexpected to fulfill His purposes. 1 Corinthians 1:27 states, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong." Be open to how God might use you in unexpected ways. 10. Hope in God’s Promises The conclusion of Ruth 4 is a reminder of the hope found in God’s promises. The birth of Obed brings joy and restoration to Naomi, symbolizing the fulfillment of God’s promises. Romans 15:13 encourages us, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Hold fast to the hope that God’s promises bring, knowing they are sure and steadfast. Topics 1. Boaz Redeems Ruth (Ruth 4:1-6) Boaz goes to the town gate to meet the kinsman-redeemer who is closer in line to redeem Naomi's land. He presents the opportunity to redeem the land, which also involves marrying Ruth, the Moabitess. The nearer kinsman declines, fearing it might endanger his own estate. This passage highlights the Hebrew concept of "goel" (גֹּאֵל), meaning "redeemer," which is central to the theme of redemption in the book. 2. The Legal Transaction (Ruth 4:7-10) The custom of transferring property rights is demonstrated through the removal of a sandal, a symbolic act of legal transaction in ancient Israel. Boaz publicly declares his intention to redeem Naomi's land and marry Ruth, ensuring the preservation of the deceased's family line. This act underscores the importance of covenant and legal procedures in Hebrew culture. 3. Blessing of the Elders and People (Ruth 4:11-12) The elders and people at the gate bless Boaz and Ruth, invoking the names of Rachel and Leah, the matriarchs of Israel, and expressing hope that Ruth will be like them in building the house of Israel. This blessing reflects the communal aspect of marriage and family in Israelite society and the significance of lineage. 4. Marriage of Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:13) Boaz marries Ruth, and the Lord enables her to conceive a son. This union is seen as divinely blessed, emphasizing God's providence and faithfulness. The Hebrew word "yada" (יָדַע), meaning "to know," is often used in the context of intimate relationships, highlighting the personal and covenantal nature of marriage. 5. Naomi's Restoration (Ruth 4:14-17) The women of the town celebrate Naomi's restoration through the birth of Obed, Ruth's son, who is seen as a redeemer for Naomi. This passage highlights the theme of God's redemption and restoration, as Naomi's life is renewed through her grandson. The name "Obed" (עֹבֵד) means "servant," signifying his role in serving and continuing the family line. 6. Genealogy of David (Ruth 4:18-22) The chapter concludes with a genealogy tracing the lineage from Perez to David, establishing the connection between Ruth and King David. This genealogy underscores the providential role of Ruth in the messianic line, pointing to the future coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Redeemer. The Hebrew term "toledot" (תּוֹלְדוֹת), meaning "generations," is used to signify the importance of lineage and heritage in God's redemptive plan. Themes 1. Redemption and Kinsman-Redeemer The theme of redemption is central in Ruth 4, where Boaz acts as the kinsman-redeemer for Ruth. This is seen in Ruth 4:9-10, where Boaz declares, "Today you are witnesses that I have bought from Naomi all that belonged to Elimelech, Chilion, and Mahlon. Moreover, I have acquired Ruth the Moabitess, Mahlon’s widow, as my wife, to raise up the name of the deceased on his inheritance." The Hebrew term "go'el" (גֹּאֵל) refers to a kinsman-redeemer, highlighting the duty to preserve the family lineage and property. 2. Providence and Sovereignty of God The unfolding events in Ruth 4 demonstrate God's providence and sovereignty. The seemingly coincidental meeting of Boaz and the nearer kinsman at the city gate (Ruth 4:1) underscores God's hand in orchestrating events for His purposes. The Hebrew understanding of God's providence is implicit in the narrative structure. 3. Legal and Social Customs The chapter provides insight into the legal and social customs of ancient Israel, particularly concerning property rights and levirate marriage. In Ruth 4:7, the custom of exchanging sandals is described: "Now in earlier times in Israel, for the redemption and transfer of property to become final, one party would take off his sandal and give it to the other." This act symbolized the transfer of rights and responsibilities. 4. Community Witness and Blessing The role of the community as witnesses to the transaction and their subsequent blessing of Boaz and Ruth is significant. In Ruth 4:11-12, the elders and people at the gate say, "We are witnesses. May the LORD make the woman entering your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel." This communal involvement reflects the importance of community validation and blessing in covenant relationships. 5. Lineage and Legacy The theme of lineage and legacy is highlighted in the genealogy at the end of the chapter. Ruth 4:17 states, "The women living there said, 'Naomi has a son!' And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David." This connects Ruth and Boaz's union to the Davidic line, emphasizing the significance of their legacy in God's redemptive plan. 6. Inclusivity and God's Grace Ruth, a Moabitess, being integrated into the Israelite community and becoming an ancestor of King David, illustrates the theme of inclusivity and God's grace. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's grace extending beyond ethnic boundaries, as seen in Ruth's acceptance and the blessings pronounced upon her. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Sovereignty Praise God for His sovereign hand in our lives and His perfect plan that unfolds in His timing. Prayer for Integrity Ask God to help us live with integrity and honor in all our relationships and decisions. Inclusion and Unity Pray for the breaking down of barriers and for unity within the body of Christ, embracing all people as part of God's family. Redemption and Restoration Seek God's redemption and restoration in areas of our lives that need His healing touch. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ruth 4:1–2, is there historical evidence supporting a legal negotiation at the city gate, or could this be a literary invention? 2. In Ruth 4:3–6, does the land redemption process conflict with other Old Testament inheritance laws or reflect an anachronistic practice? 3. In Ruth 4:7, is the “shoe exchange” ceremony documented elsewhere in ancient Near Eastern records, or is it unique to this text? 4. In Ruth 4:17, are there inconsistencies with other genealogies that question Obed’s direct link to King David? 5. In Ruth 4:21–22, do we have archaeological or textual evidence outside of the Bible to confirm Boaz’s place in David’s lineage? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the concept of redemption play out in Ruth 4? 2. How is the virtue and character of Boaz displayed in his interactions with Ruth and the closer relative? 3. How does the theme of God's providence unfold throughout the book of Ruth, culminating in chapter 4? 4. How does the resolution of Ruth's story reflect on the social and religious norms of the time? 5. Can you draw parallels between the Levirate Marriage practiced in Ruth 4 and any modern practices or laws? 6. What significance does the lineage of King David hold in the larger biblical narrative? 7. How does the town's perception of Ruth change from the beginning of the book to the end? 8. How does Naomi's life change throughout the story, and what role does Ruth play in this transformation? 9. What can we learn from the character of the unnamed relative who refused to redeem Ruth? 10. In what ways do Ruth and Boaz embody the qualities of loyalty and integrity? 11. What significance does the genealogy in Ruth 4:18-22 hold, and how does it connect to the broader biblical narrative? 12. In your opinion, why does the story emphasize that Ruth is a Moabite woman? 13. What can modern readers learn about dealing with loss and adversity from the story of Ruth? 14. If you were in Boaz's shoes, would you have acted in the same way? Why or why not? 15. How does the story of Ruth and Boaz challenge or confirm your ideas about romantic relationships? 16. How does Ruth's story speak to the role of women in society and in the household? 17. Can you identify a time when, like Naomi, you've felt blessed because of someone else's loyalty? 18. How would you handle a situation where adhering to a custom or tradition conflicted with your personal feelings or beliefs? 19. How does Ruth 4 teach us about humility, sacrifice, and the importance of family? 20. In the context of today's society, how can the principles illustrated in Ruth 4 guide our decisions and relationships? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions