Ruth 4:4

I thought I should inform you that you may buy it back in the presence of those seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people. If you want to redeem it, do so. But if you will not redeem it, tell me so I may know, because there is no one but you to redeem it, and I am next after you." "I will redeem it," he replied.

Study Bible

I thought I should inform you
This phrase indicates a sense of duty and responsibility. In the context of ancient Israel, it was important to follow proper legal procedures, especially concerning land and family inheritance. The speaker, Boaz, is acting in accordance with the law of levirate marriage and redemption, which required informing the nearest kinsman of his right to redeem.

that you may buy it back
The concept of "buying back" refers to the redemption of property. According to Levitical law (Leviticus 25:25), if a relative became poor and sold some of their property, the nearest kinsman had the right to redeem it. This ensured that land remained within the family and tribe, preserving the inheritance given by God.

in the presence of those seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people
The presence of witnesses, particularly the elders, was crucial for validating legal transactions. Elders were respected leaders in the community who ensured that justice and tradition were upheld. This public setting provided transparency and accountability.

If you want to redeem it, do so
Boaz offers the kinsman the first right of redemption, adhering to the law. This reflects the importance of following God's commandments and respecting the established order. Redemption here is not just a legal act but also a moral and familial duty.

But if you will not redeem it, tell me so I may know
Boaz seeks clarity and decisiveness. This reflects the need for clear communication in legal matters. It also highlights Boaz's willingness to fulfill the role of redeemer if the nearer kinsman declines, showing his commitment to family and duty.

because there is no one but you to redeem it, and I am next after you
This statement underscores the order of redemption rights. The nearest kinsman had the first right, and if he declined, the next in line could redeem. This order ensured that the family line and property remained intact, reflecting God's provision for His people.

“I will redeem it,” he replied
The kinsman's initial willingness to redeem the land shows his understanding of his legal and familial obligations. However, as the narrative unfolds, his decision changes when he learns of the additional responsibility of marrying Ruth, which Boaz is prepared to undertake. This highlights Boaz's role as a type of Christ, willing to go beyond the law to show grace and love.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A prominent and wealthy man from Bethlehem, Boaz is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. He plays a crucial role as the kinsman-redeemer in the account of Ruth.

2. Ruth
A Moabite widow who loyally follows her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem. Her faithfulness and integrity are central to the account.

3. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who returns to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons. She seeks security for Ruth through the practice of levirate marriage.

4. The Kinsman-Redeemer
A relative who has the responsibility to redeem a family member in distress, which includes marrying the widow of a deceased relative to preserve the family line.

5. Bethlehem
The setting of the account, a town in Judah, which is also significant as the birthplace of King David and later, Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness and Loyalty
Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her willingness to follow God's laws exemplify the virtues of faithfulness and loyalty, which are rewarded by God.

God's Providence
The account of Ruth and Boaz illustrates how God orchestrates events for His purposes, even through ordinary human actions and decisions.

Redemption and Restoration
Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer is a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work, offering a picture of how God redeems and restores lives.

Cultural and Legal Context
Understanding the cultural and legal context of the kinsman-redeemer helps us appreciate the depth of Boaz's actions and the significance of Ruth's account.

Inclusivity in God's Plan
Ruth, a Moabite, becomes part of the lineage of David and Jesus, demonstrating that God's plan of salvation is inclusive and extends beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the kinsman-redeemer in Ruth 4:4 reflect God's character and His plan for redemption in the broader biblical account?

2. In what ways does Ruth's account challenge us to demonstrate faithfulness and loyalty in our own relationships and commitments?

3. How can we see God's providence at work in our lives, similar to how He orchestrated events in the account of Ruth and Boaz?

4. What lessons can we learn from Boaz's actions about integrity and responsibility in fulfilling our obligations to others?

5. How does the inclusion of Ruth in the genealogy of Jesus encourage us to view God's plan of salvation as inclusive and available to all people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The concept of the kinsman-redeemer is also seen in Leviticus 25:25-55, where the laws regarding redemption of property and family members are outlined. This connection highlights the legal and cultural background of Boaz's actions.

The genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1 includes Ruth, showing the significance of her account in the lineage of Christ, emphasizing God's inclusive plan of salvation.

The account of Ruth parallels the account of Tamar in Genesis 38, where another woman secures her place in the lineage of Judah through unconventional means, highlighting God's providence and redemption.