The account of Boaz redeeming the land and marrying Ruth is a pivotal narrative found in the Book of Ruth, chapters 3 and 4. This account is set during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and religious upheaval in Israel. The narrative highlights themes of loyalty, redemption, and divine providence, and it plays a crucial role in the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.

Context and Background

Ruth, a Moabite widow, had shown steadfast loyalty to her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, by leaving her homeland to dwell in Bethlehem. Naomi, also a widow, had returned to Bethlehem after the death of her husband and sons, including Ruth's husband, Mahlon. The two women faced destitution, but Ruth's dedication to Naomi and her faith in the God of Israel set the stage for their redemption.

The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer

In ancient Israel, the concept of the kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: "go'el") was integral to family and property law. A kinsman-redeemer was a close relative who had the responsibility to redeem a family member in serious difficulty, which could include buying back land that a poor relative had sold or marrying a widow to preserve the family line. This practice is rooted in Levitical law, as seen in Leviticus 25:25 and Deuteronomy 25:5-10.

Ruth's Appeal to Boaz

Naomi, recognizing Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer, instructed Ruth to approach him discreetly at the threshing floor. Ruth followed Naomi's guidance, and in a gesture of humility and trust, she lay at Boaz's feet, symbolically requesting his protection and redemption. Boaz responded with integrity and kindness, acknowledging Ruth's noble character and expressing his willingness to fulfill the role of redeemer, provided a closer relative declined the responsibility.

Boaz Redeems the Land

In Ruth 4, Boaz convened a meeting at the town gate, a place of legal transactions, with the elders and the nearer kinsman. Boaz presented the opportunity to redeem the land that belonged to Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. The nearer kinsman initially agreed to redeem the land but withdrew his claim upon learning that he must also marry Ruth to maintain the family line. This cleared the way for Boaz to act as the redeemer.

Boaz's declaration before the elders and witnesses is recorded in Ruth 4:9-10 : "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 hometown. You are witnesses today."

Marriage to Ruth and Legacy

Boaz's marriage to Ruth was celebrated by the community, and the union was blessed by the elders, who invoked the names of Rachel and Leah, the matriarchs of Israel. Ruth and Boaz's marriage resulted in the birth of Obed, the grandfather of King David, thus securing Ruth's place in the Messianic lineage.

The account of Boaz and Ruth is a testament to God's providential care and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through ordinary lives. It underscores the importance of faithfulness, kindness, and the fulfillment of covenantal responsibilities within the community of God's people.