Ruth 4:11

"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.

Study Bible

“We are witnesses,” said the elders and all the people at the gate.
In ancient Israel, the city gate was a place of legal transactions and public gatherings. The elders, respected leaders of the community, served as witnesses to Boaz's redemption of Ruth, ensuring the legality and social acknowledgment of the event. This public affirmation highlights the importance of community in covenantal relationships and legal matters, reflecting the communal nature of Israelite society.

“May the LORD make the woman entering your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel.”
Rachel and Leah, the wives of Jacob, were matriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel. Their mention invokes the blessing of fertility and the continuation of a significant lineage. This blessing for Ruth, a Moabite, underscores the theme of inclusion and God's providence in using unexpected individuals to fulfill His purposes. It also foreshadows Ruth's role in the Davidic line, leading to the birth of Jesus Christ, connecting to the Messianic prophecy.

May you be prosperous in Ephrathah and famous in Bethlehem.
Ephrathah is an ancient name for the region around Bethlehem, emphasizing the historical and geographical significance of the area. Bethlehem, known as the "House of Bread," is prophetically significant as the birthplace of King David and later Jesus Christ (Micah 5:2). The blessing of prosperity and fame for Boaz and his descendants points to the future prominence of this lineage, culminating in the birth of the Messiah, fulfilling God's redemptive plan through history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth, and a central figure in the account of redemption and provision.

2. Ruth
A Moabite widow who demonstrates loyalty and faithfulness, ultimately becoming part of the lineage of David and Jesus.

3. Bethlehem
The town where the events of Ruth take place, significant as the birthplace of David and later Jesus.

4. The Elders and People at the Gate
Community leaders and witnesses to the legal transaction between Boaz and the closer kinsman-redeemer, affirming Boaz's right to marry Ruth.

5. Rachel and Leah
The wives of Jacob, mentioned as matriarchs who built the house of Israel, symbolizing fruitfulness and legacy.

Teaching Points

The Power of Community Blessing
The elders and people at the gate bless Ruth, recognizing her potential to build a legacy. This highlights the importance of community support and affirmation in fulfilling God's purposes.

Legacy and Fruitfulness
The reference to Rachel and Leah underscores the significance of leaving a spiritual and familial legacy. Believers are encouraged to consider how their lives contribute to God's ongoing account.

God's Sovereign Plan
Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of David and Jesus illustrates God's sovereign plan to use unexpected people and circumstances for His glory. Trust in God's providence, even when the path is unclear.

Faithfulness and Reward
Ruth's faithfulness to Naomi and her new faith community is rewarded with a place of honor and blessing. This encourages believers to remain steadfast in their commitments and trust in God's timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the blessing pronounced by the elders and people at the gate reflect the community's role in affirming God's work in our lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Ruth challenge us to consider our own legacy and the impact we have on future generations?

3. How can we see God's sovereign hand at work in the seemingly ordinary events of our lives, as demonstrated in Ruth's account?

4. What characteristics of Ruth align with the description of a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31, and how can we apply these traits in our own lives?

5. How does Ruth's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus encourage us to trust in God's redemptive plan, even when we feel like outsiders or unlikely candidates for His purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 29-30
The account of Rachel and Leah, whose lives and offspring played a crucial role in the formation of the tribes of Israel, connecting to the blessing pronounced over Ruth.

Proverbs 31
The description of a virtuous woman, which parallels the community's recognition of Ruth's character.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus, highlighting Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of Christ, demonstrating God's redemptive plan through history.