Ruth 4:2

Then Boaz took ten of the elders of the city and said, "Sit here," and they did so.

Study Bible

Then Boaz took
The phrase "Then Boaz took" indicates a decisive action by Boaz, a man of integrity and purpose. The Hebrew root for "took" is "laqach," which often implies taking with authority or initiative. In the context of ancient Israel, this action signifies Boaz's role as a leader and a man of standing within the community. His actions are deliberate and reflect his commitment to fulfilling his duty as a kinsman-redeemer, a role that carries both legal and moral responsibilities.

ten of the elders
The number "ten" in Hebrew culture often symbolizes completeness or a quorum necessary for legal proceedings. The "elders" were respected leaders and decision-makers within the city, often serving as judges or witnesses in legal matters. Their presence was crucial for validating the transaction Boaz was about to propose. This gathering underscores the importance of community and accountability in ancient Israelite society, where decisions were made in the presence of witnesses to ensure transparency and justice.

of the city
The "city" refers to Bethlehem, a small but significant town in Judah. In ancient times, cities were often walled and served as centers of trade, governance, and social life. The city gate, where this meeting likely took place, was a hub of activity and the location for legal transactions and public discourse. This setting highlights the public nature of Boaz's actions and the communal aspect of legal and familial responsibilities.

and said, 'Sit here,'
Boaz's invitation to "Sit here" is both a command and a gesture of hospitality. The Hebrew word for "sit" is "yashab," which can mean to dwell or remain. By asking the elders to sit, Boaz is not only inviting them to participate in the legal process but also ensuring their comfort and engagement in the proceedings. This reflects the cultural value placed on hospitality and respect for authority figures.

and they sat down
The elders' compliance, "and they sat down," indicates their willingness to participate and lend their authority to the proceedings. This act of sitting signifies readiness to listen, deliberate, and witness the events that would unfold. It also reflects the communal nature of decision-making in ancient Israel, where elders played a crucial role in maintaining justice and order within the society.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A prominent and wealthy man from Bethlehem, Boaz is a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth. His actions in this chapter demonstrate his integrity and adherence to the law.

2. Elders of the City
These are respected leaders within the community of Bethlehem. Their role is to witness and validate legal transactions, ensuring that community standards and laws are upheld.

3. The City Gate
The city gate was a central place for legal matters, business transactions, and public gatherings in ancient Israelite society. It served as a courtroom and a place for public discourse.

4. Ruth
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Ruth is the Moabite widow whose loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and faith in the God of Israel are central to the account.

5. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who returned to Bethlehem with Ruth after the death of her husband and sons. She plays a crucial role in the unfolding of God's providential plan.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Community Witness
Boaz's gathering of the elders underscores the importance of community involvement and accountability in legal and personal matters. In our lives, involving trusted community members in significant decisions can provide wisdom and support.

Integrity in Action
Boaz's actions reflect his integrity and commitment to doing what is right according to God's law. As believers, we are called to act with integrity, even when it requires effort and public accountability.

God's Providence in Legal Matters
The legal proceedings at the city gate are part of God's providential plan to bring about His purposes. Trusting in God's sovereignty, we can have confidence that He is at work in the details of our lives, including legal and relational matters.

Bible Study Questions

1. What role do the elders play in the community, and how does this reflect the importance of accountability in our own lives?

2. How does Boaz's approach to resolving the matter at the city gate demonstrate his character, and what can we learn from his example about handling our own responsibilities?

3. In what ways does the setting of the city gate as a place of legal transactions and public discourse relate to other biblical accounts of justice and community decision-making?

4. How does the concept of a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth 4:2 connect to the broader biblical theme of redemption, and how can this understanding deepen our appreciation for Christ's redemptive work?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a significant decision in a public or community setting. How did involving others impact the outcome, and what biblical principles can guide us in such situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
This passage outlines the law of levirate marriage, which is the backdrop for Boaz's actions as a kinsman-redeemer. Understanding this law helps to illuminate the cultural and legal context of Ruth 4:2.

Proverbs 31:23
This verse speaks of a husband being respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders. It highlights the importance of the city gate as a place of honor and decision-making, similar to the setting in Ruth 4:2.

Genesis 23:10-18
Abraham's purchase of the cave of Machpelah is conducted at the city gate, demonstrating the longstanding tradition of conducting legal transactions in this public setting.