Biblical Context:
The account of Boaz convening the elders is found in the Book of Ruth, specifically in Ruth 4:1-12. This event is a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting themes of redemption, kinship, and covenantal faithfulness. Boaz, a man of standing in Bethlehem, plays a crucial role in the redemption of Naomi's family line through his marriage to Ruth, a Moabite widow.

Cultural and Historical Background:
In ancient Israel, the role of the elders was significant in maintaining justice and order within the community. Elders were respected leaders who often gathered at the city gate, a place of legal transactions and public discourse. The city gate served as a communal hub where matters of law, commerce, and social issues were addressed.

Narrative Summary:
Boaz, having shown kindness and protection to Ruth during the barley harvest, takes the initiative to fulfill his duty as a kinsman-redeemer. According to the Levirate marriage law (Deuteronomy 25:5-10), a close relative was to marry a widow to preserve the family lineage. Boaz, recognizing his responsibility, seeks to resolve the matter legally and honorably.

In Ruth 4:1-2, Boaz goes to the city gate and sits down, waiting for the closer kinsman-redeemer to pass by. When the man arrives, Boaz calls him to sit and also gathers ten elders of the city to witness the proceedings. This assembly underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in legal matters.

Legal Proceedings:
Boaz presents the situation to the nearer kinsman, explaining that Naomi, who has returned from Moab, is selling a piece of land that belonged to their relative Elimelech. Boaz offers the kinsman the first right of redemption, as prescribed by the law. Initially, the kinsman agrees to redeem the land, but upon learning that he must also marry Ruth to maintain the deceased's family name, he declines, fearing it might jeopardize his own inheritance (Ruth 4:3-6).

Boaz then declares his willingness to redeem the land and marry Ruth. The transaction is formalized through the symbolic act of the kinsman removing his sandal and giving it to Boaz, a customary practice in Israel to confirm a legal agreement (Ruth 4:7-8).

Witness and Blessing:
The elders and all the people at the gate serve as witnesses to the transaction. They affirm Boaz's actions and pronounce a blessing upon him and Ruth. The elders invoke the names of Rachel and Leah, the matriarchs of Israel, and express their hope that Ruth will be like them, building up the house of Israel. They also pray that Boaz's house will be like that of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah, signifying prosperity and continuity (Ruth 4:11-12).

Theological Significance:
This event highlights the themes of redemption and divine providence. Boaz's actions reflect God's covenantal faithfulness and His concern for the vulnerable, as seen in the provision for widows and the preservation of family lines. The inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite, into the lineage of Israel underscores the universality of God's redemptive plan, which ultimately culminates in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5).

Key Verses:
· Ruth 4:9-10 : "Then Boaz said to the elders and all the people, '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, so that his name will not disappear from among his brothers or from the gate of his home. You are witnesses today.'"

This passage exemplifies the legal and communal aspects of redemption in ancient Israel, as well as the personal commitment of Boaz to uphold the name and legacy of his kin.