Ruth 4:8

So the kinsman-redeemer removed his sandal and said to Boaz, "Buy it for yourself."

Study Bible

So the kinsman-redeemer removed his sandal
In ancient Israel, the removal of a sandal was a symbolic act related to property transactions and the transfer of redemption rights. This practice is rooted in Deuteronomy 25:7-10, where a sandal removal ceremony is described in the context of levirate marriage. The act signified the transfer of responsibility and rights from one party to another. In this context, the kinsman-redeemer, who had the first right of redemption, relinquishes his claim to Boaz. This act underscores the legal and cultural customs of the time, emphasizing the importance of family lineage and property inheritance in Israelite society.

and said to Boaz,
Boaz, a man of standing in Bethlehem, is a central figure in the Book of Ruth. His role as a kinsman-redeemer is pivotal, as he steps in to marry Ruth and preserve the family line of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. This moment highlights Boaz's integrity and willingness to fulfill his duty under the law. The narrative sets Boaz as a type of Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate Redeemer who would come to restore and redeem humanity.

“Buy it for yourself.”
The phrase indicates the transfer of the right to purchase the land and marry Ruth from the nearer kinsman to Boaz. This transaction not only involves property but also the continuation of a family line, which was crucial in Israelite culture. The act of buying the land and marrying Ruth ensures that the name of the deceased will not be cut off from among his family and town. This reflects the broader biblical theme of redemption and restoration, as seen in passages like Isaiah 54:5 and Galatians 4:4-5, where God redeems His people. Boaz's actions prefigure the redemptive work of Christ, who "purchased" believers with His sacrifice, ensuring their place in the family of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Boaz
A wealthy and influential man from Bethlehem, Boaz is a kinsman-redeemer for Naomi's family. He is a man of integrity and plays a crucial role in the redemption of Ruth and Naomi's family line.

2. Kinsman-Redeemer
This unnamed relative had the first right to redeem the land that belonged to Naomi's family. However, he relinquishes his right to Boaz by removing his sandal, a symbolic act of transferring redemption rights.

3. Ruth
A Moabite widow and the daughter-in-law of Naomi. Her loyalty and faithfulness to Naomi lead her to Bethlehem, where she eventually becomes the wife of Boaz.

4. Naomi
Ruth's mother-in-law, who returns to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons. She plays a pivotal role in guiding Ruth through the customs of her people.

5. Bethlehem
The setting of this event, Bethlehem is a small town in Judah. It is significant as the birthplace of King David and later, Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

Understanding Redemption
The role of the kinsman-redeemer illustrates the concept of redemption, pointing to Christ as our ultimate Redeemer who paid the price for our sins.

Symbolism of the Sandal
The removal of the sandal signifies the transfer of rights and responsibilities. It reminds us of the importance of fulfilling our commitments and the integrity required in our dealings.

God's Sovereignty in Relationships
The account of Ruth and Boaz shows how God orchestrates relationships for His purposes. We are encouraged to trust God's timing and plan in our own relationships.

Faithfulness and Loyalty
Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and Boaz's integrity are examples for us to emulate in our relationships with others, demonstrating steadfast love and faithfulness.

Legacy and Lineage
The union of Boaz and Ruth leads to the birth of Obed, the grandfather of David. This teaches us that our actions and decisions can have lasting impacts beyond our lifetime.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the kinsman-redeemer in Ruth 4:8 reflect the character of Christ as our Redeemer?

2. What is the significance of the sandal in the cultural and legal context of ancient Israel, and how can we apply the principle of integrity in our commitments today?

3. In what ways does the account of Ruth and Boaz encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty over our relationships and life circumstances?

4. How can we demonstrate the same loyalty and faithfulness in our relationships as Ruth did with Naomi and Boaz with Ruth?

5. Considering the legacy of Boaz and Ruth, how can we be intentional about the legacy we leave for future generations in our faith and actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The concept of the kinsman-redeemer is rooted in Leviticus 25, where the law provides for a relative to redeem land or a family member in distress. This reflects God's provision and care for His people.

The act of removing a sandal as a legal transaction is also seen in Deuteronomy 25, where it is part of the levirate marriage law, emphasizing the importance of family lineage and inheritance.

The lineage of Boaz and Ruth is significant in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as seen in Matthew 1, highlighting God's sovereign plan through ordinary people.