Ruth 4:12

And 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."

Study Bible

And may your house become like the house of Perez
The phrase "your house" refers to the lineage and family legacy of Boaz, who is marrying Ruth. In ancient Israel, one's house was not just a physical dwelling but represented one's family line and heritage. The "house of Perez" is significant because Perez was an ancestor of Boaz and a key figure in the lineage of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Perez's birth, as recorded in Genesis 38, was marked by unusual circumstances involving Tamar and Judah, yet it led to a prosperous and significant lineage. The blessing here is that Boaz's house would be as fruitful and enduring as that of Perez, indicating a hope for a legacy that would impact future generations.

whom Tamar bore to Judah
This reference to Tamar and Judah highlights a account of redemption and divine providence. Tamar, a Canaanite woman, was initially wronged by Judah but ultimately became the mother of Perez through a series of divinely orchestrated events. This connection underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and grace in using unexpected and even flawed circumstances to fulfill His purposes. It also parallels Ruth's story, as she, a Moabite widow, is brought into the covenant community of Israel and becomes part of God's redemptive plan.

because of the offspring the LORD will give you
The "offspring" mentioned here is a direct reference to the children that Boaz and Ruth are expected to have. In the Hebrew context, children were seen as a blessing from the LORD, a continuation of one's name and legacy. This blessing is prophetic, as it anticipates the birth of Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David, and ultimately, the lineage through which Jesus Christ would be born. The phrase emphasizes the LORD's active role in granting life and blessing, reinforcing the belief that God is the ultimate source of all good gifts.

by this young woman
The term "young woman" refers to Ruth, who is central to this narrative. Her identity as a Moabite and a widow highlights the inclusivity of God's grace, as she is welcomed into the community of Israel and becomes an integral part of its history. Ruth's character, marked by loyalty, faithfulness, and virtue, is celebrated throughout the book. Her inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus, as noted in the Gospel of Matthew, serves as a powerful testament to God's redemptive plan that transcends ethnic and social boundaries. This phrase underscores the transformative power of God's grace in the lives of those who trust in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ruth
A Moabite widow who demonstrates loyalty and faithfulness to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and becomes an ancestor of King David and Jesus Christ.

2. Boaz
A wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, a kinsman-redeemer who marries Ruth, showing kindness and fulfilling his duty according to the law.

3. Perez
The son of Judah and Tamar, whose lineage is significant in the genealogy of David and Jesus, symbolizing God's providence and redemption.

4. Tamar
The mother of Perez, who, through a complex and challenging situation, ensures the continuation of Judah's line, highlighting themes of justice and divine intervention.

5. Bethlehem
The setting of the account, a town in Judah that becomes significant as the birthplace of David and later, Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Lineage
God's hand is evident in the lineage of Perez, Boaz, and Ruth, demonstrating His control over history and His ability to bring about His purposes through human actions.

Redemption and Restoration
The account of Ruth and Boaz is a powerful illustration of redemption, where Boaz acts as a kinsman-redeemer, prefiguring Christ's redemptive work for humanity.

Faithfulness and Obedience
Ruth's loyalty and Boaz's adherence to the law highlight the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, resulting in blessings and fulfillment of His promises.

God's Inclusion of the Outsider
Ruth, a Moabite, is included in the lineage of Christ, showing God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Perez's birth in Genesis 38 provide context for understanding Ruth 4:12, and what does it teach us about God's ability to work through challenging situations?

2. In what ways does Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer reflect the character and work of Jesus Christ as our Redeemer?

3. How does Ruth's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus challenge our understanding of God's grace and the inclusion of outsiders in His plan?

4. What can we learn from the faithfulness and obedience of Ruth and Boaz, and how can we apply these lessons in our own lives today?

5. How does the setting of Bethlehem in the account of Ruth connect to its significance in the broader biblical account, particularly in the birth of Jesus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 38
The account of Tamar and Judah, which provides background on Perez's birth and illustrates God's ability to work through difficult circumstances to fulfill His promises.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus, which includes Perez, Boaz, and Ruth, showing the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through their lineage.

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
The law of levirate marriage, which Boaz fulfills by marrying Ruth, ensuring the continuation of Elimelech's family line.