“And Salmon begat Boaz, and Boaz begat Obed.”– Ruth 4:20 (KJV)
“Salmon was the father of Boaz. Boaz was the father of Obed.”– Ruth 4:20 (NLT)
“Salmon had Boaz, Boaz had Obed.”– Ruth 4:20 (MSG)
What Does Ruth 4:20 Mean?
The verse from Ruth 4:20 focuses on the lineage of significant figures in the biblical narrative. It signifies the transition from one generation to the next, specifically mentioning Salmon being the father of Boaz, and Boaz the father of Obed. This lineage is important as it leads to King David and ultimately fulfills God’s promise regarding the ancestry of Jesus. It establishes the connection between Ruth, a Moabite woman, and the lineage of the Israelites, showing that God’s plans are inclusive and expansive, reaching beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries.
Ruth’s story is notable in the Bible; she was a foreigner who made a remarkable decision to follow Naomi back to Israel, adopting Naomi’s people and God as her own. The mention of Salmon, Boaz, and Obed encapsulates the theme of redemption and divine providence, highlighting how God works through different people and situations to bring about His promises. Each figure in this lineage represents a part of God’s greater plan, and this verse gives us insight into how, throughout history, God has been involved in the lives and stories of those who trust Him.
Ruth 4:20 Explanation and Commentary
In examining this verse, we can appreciate several layers of meaning. The first point to notice is the importance of genealogy in ancient Israelite culture. The Israelites placed significant value on family lines and ancestry. This importance suggests that each person’s identity was intricately tied to their family and where they came from. Understanding this context helps us appreciate why the lineage is recorded in such detail in the Scripture.
By stating that Salmon begat Boaz, we are introduced to Boaz, a character who plays a significant role in the story of Ruth. Boaz is not just an ordinary man; he serves as the kinsman-redeemer who marries Ruth and restores her family’s line. The act of redemption signifies God’s mercy and love, allowing Ruth, who was a foreigner, to be accepted and valued as part of God’s chosen people. She becomes part of the heritage of Israel, illustrating that God’s mercy knows no bounds.
Next, the transition from Boaz to Obed signifies further divine intervention in the continuation of this family line. Obed is notable because he becomes the grandfather of King David. David is a central figure in Jewish history, chosen by God to lead His people. This lineage ultimately positions Ruth as an ancestor of Jesus Christ, fulfilling God’s promise of salvation to all humanity.
Ruth 4:20 illustrates not only the story of individual characters but the overarching narrative of God’s plan for redemption. It reflects both human actions and God’s sovereign hand in weaving together the stories of many people. We recognize that our decisions and choices have lasting consequences; even what seems like a slight mention of lineage carries profound implications for generations to come. This commentary encourages believers today to see their lives as part of a larger tapestry that God is weaving, highlighting that each of us has a role to play in fulfilling His promises.
Context of Ruth 4:20
To understand Ruth 4:20 fully, we must consider its broader context within the Book of Ruth. The entire book is a beautiful story of loyalty, love, and divine providence. It narrates the journey of Ruth and Naomi, shedding light on themes such as faith and redemption. The story takes place during the time of the judges when Israel was in disarray and turned away from God.
Throughout the book, Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi stands as a pillar. After the death of Naomi’s husband and sons, Ruth chooses to stay with Naomi rather than return to her own family. In doing so, Ruth not only commits to Naomi but also to her God, saying, “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). This commitment sets the stage for God’s work in their lives.
As we continue through the narrative, Ruth encounters Boaz while gleaning in the fields. Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband, shows kindness to Ruth by providing her with food and ensuring her safety. This act of kindness blossoms into a love story filled with integrity and mutual respect. Boaz recognizes Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her faithfulness to God. His decision to marry Ruth highlights the importance of redemption, reflecting God’s love and mercy through human relationships.
This chapter culminates in the verses leading up to 4:20, where Boaz takes necessary steps to fulfill his role as the kinsman-redeemer, marrying Ruth and ensuring her family’s lineage continuity. Therefore, Ruth 4:20 serves as a pivotal moment in the book, capturing the legacy that results from Ruth’s choices and Boaz’s readiness to obey God’s commands concerning marriage and lineage.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ruth 4:20
Let us break down the key parts of this verse: Salmon, Boaz, and Obed. Each name mentioned carries significance in the overall narrative. Salmon is often thought to be from the tribe of Judah, and his role as a father begins this genealogy. By including Salmon, we acknowledge the roots of Jesse’s lineage, which later includes David.
Boaz, Salmon’s son, is an essential character in this story. His kindness and respectful demeanor demonstrate values that are deeply respected in biblical teachings. He embodies being a protector and a provider for Ruth, fulfilling the law of redemption. Through his actions, we learn about the importance of treating others with dignity and care.
Finally, we have Obed, who signifies the continuation of this story. His birth symbolizes the continuation of God’s promise to Israel and His faithfulness to keep His word. Obed becomes a father and lays a foundation for God’s kingdom through his son Jesse and eventually David. This emphasizes the theme that God chooses ordinary people to fulfill extraordinary plans.
When we interact with this verse, we can see the connections between each character, and how their lives intertwine to fulfill God’s greater purpose. It reminds us that our family histories carry weight and that we can leave a legacy of faith that impacts future generations. We see God’s plan actively working in our lives and how every individual has a part to play in His story.
Lessons to Learn From Ruth 4:20
There are many lessons to glean from Ruth 4:20 and the surrounding narrative. One prominent lesson is the importance of loyalty and love in our relationships. Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi, and her commitment to caring for her mother-in-law, reflect the heart of true love which goes beyond mere words. It encourages us to be loyal to those we love and to put their needs before our own.
The story also guides us towards understanding the concept of redemption in our daily lives. The act of Boaz marrying Ruth underscores that even in difficult situations, there is hope for restoration and new beginnings. It illustrates that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love. We can be assured that God works in our lives, bringing beauty from ashes and leading us into new chapters that fulfill His promises.
Furthermore, Ruth teaches us to embrace people from different backgrounds and cultures. Despite being a Moabite, Ruth’s faith and actions resulted in her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus. This becomes a powerful lesson in inclusivity and demonstrates that God’s love extends to all, regardless of their background or past choices. It pushes us to break down barriers and recognize the inherent worth of every individual.
The significance of lineage and heritage is another noteworthy lesson from Ruth 4:20. Understanding our roots can help give us a sense of identity and purpose. We are reminded that our lives contribute to a larger story, creating a legacy for future generations. This calls for intentional living, understanding that our actions today can set the tone for those who follow.
Final Thoughts
Ruth 4:20 might seem like a simple verse listing names, but it encapsulates a profound truth about God’s sovereignty and character. Each name carries weight and significance in God’s grand narrative. What we learn through this verse and the story of Ruth is that God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Our decisions, just like Ruth’s and Boaz’s, have lasting effects that resonate through time.
We can be encouraged that God’s plans never fail, and that includes each of us. As we live our lives with purpose and integrity, we contribute to this beautiful tapestry God is weaving. Let us endeavor to uphold values of love and loyalty, embracing our unique paths while being open to how God may choose to use us. If you desire to explore additional topics that can deepen your understanding of faith, consider reading about Acts 14:24, or learn about Joshua 10:12.