Ruth 4 Study Bible

Summary

Boaz Redeems Ruth

Ruth 4 provides a profound conclusion to an incredible tale of loyalty, faith, and divine providence. It shows God’s hand in the ordinary and extraordinary events of life, orchestrating redemption in ways that can have far-reaching effects beyond what we can foresee. It also underscores the value of virtuous and noble character, showing how Ruth and Boaz's integrity led not only to their personal redemption but also the establishment of the lineage of King David.

1. Verses 1-2: At the Town Gate Boaz goes to the town gate, the place where legal matters were traditionally settled, and sits down. He then invites the unnamed closer relative and ten elders of the city to sit with him.

2. Verses 3-6: The Proposal Boaz tells the unnamed relative about Naomi's intention to sell the land that belonged to Elimelech. The relative initially agrees to redeem the land but retracts when he learns he must also take Ruth the Moabitess as his wife to maintain the name of the deceased on his property.

3. Verses 7-8: The Transfer The closer relative confirms he can't redeem the land and allows Boaz to do so instead. The deal is sealed in a customary way, by the closer relative removing his sandal and giving it to Boaz.

4. Verses 9-12: Blessings from the Elders Boaz announces to the elders and all the people his intention to purchase all that belonged to Elimelech and take Ruth as his wife. The elders bless Boaz and Ruth, praying for their prosperity and invoking the names of Rachel, Leah, and Tamar.

5. Verses 13-17: Birth of Obed Boaz and Ruth get married, and Ruth gives birth to a son, Obed. The women of the town rejoice and bless Naomi, who is given a new lease on life through her grandson. They declare that Ruth, who loves Naomi and bore this child, is better to Naomi than seven sons.

6. Verses 18-22: Lineage of David The chapter concludes with a genealogy that traces the line from Perez, through Boaz and Obed, to David, establishing the royal lineage of Israel’s greatest king.

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.

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 story 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.

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.

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.

Bible Study 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?

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.

Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions