“Then said Boaz, What day thou buyest the field of the hand of Naomi, thou must buy it also of Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance.”– Ruth 4:5 (KJV)
“Then Boaz said, ‘On the day you buy the field from Naomi, you will also acquire Ruth the Moabite, the widow of the dead man, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property.’– Ruth 4:5 (NLT)
“Then Boaz said, ‘When you buy the field from Naomi, you must also buy it from Ruth the Moabite, the widow of the deceased, so that you can preserve the name of the deceased with his property.’– Ruth 4:5 (MSG)
What Does Ruth 4:5 Mean?
Ruth 4:5 is a pivotal moment in the Book of Ruth that shows the importance of family, loyalty, and the law of redemption. Boaz, a relative of Naomi, speaks to another relative who has the first option to redeem Naomi’s land in order to help her family. This verse shines a spotlight on the laws surrounding property and family lineage in ancient Israel, particularly the Levirate law, which required a man to marry his deceased brother’s widow to continue the family line. Boaz presents the full situation, emphasizing that the social and familial implications go beyond just land ownership. It’s also about preserving the family name and ensuring that those who have passed on are honored through the continuation of their lineage.
In essence, this verse reminds us of the deep roots of familial responsibility. When we consider our actions, we must think of how they may affect not just ourselves but also our family and our community. Boaz represents a man who understands the value of this responsibility, as he willingly takes on the challenge of preserving the family name. This not only reflects his character but also sets an example of integrity and devotion to family duty.
Ruth 4:5 Explanation and Commentary
When we look at Ruth 4:5, we find an amazing story woven with themes of redemption, loyalty, and the importance of family ties. This portion of scripture is not simply about buying land; it is about taking responsibility for loved ones and honoring the memory of those who have passed. Boaz’s conversation with the unnamed relative is significant because it reveals the cultural context of the time and the values that the people held dear.
The act of redeeming land in ancient Israel came with social and spiritual implications. Boaz reminds the relative that he will not only gain a field but also take Ruth as his wife. From the law perspective, this was essential for ensuring that the family’s lineage would continue, particularly for the deceased, whose name must not be forgotten. We live in a society that sometimes places material gain above relationships, but here we have an example of true altruism. Boaz stands as a beacon of integrity and caring.
The example of Ruth serves as a powerful contrast to this societal expectation. Ruth, a Moabite woman, is a foreigner who chooses to align herself with Naomi and convert to her way of life and beliefs. Her steadfast devotion to her mother-in-law embodies love and loyalty. Imagine the strong bond they created, facing the challenges of their time together. This creates a narrative of redemption and inclusion that still resonates today.
As Boaz navigates this conversation, we see how the themes of loyalty and integrity manifest. He respects the traditions of his people while looking out for Ruth and Naomi. His willingness to marry Ruth not only protects her but signifies a broader representation of God’s divine work in our lives. It reminds us how He meets our needs, even when we feel like outsiders, and He brings people together in ways we may not expect.
Ultimately, Ruth 4:5 teaches us to value our family and those we are connected with. It encourages us to embrace our responsibilities and treat others with love and respect, regardless of how different they may seem. With every relationship, we have opportunities to demonstrate loyalty and commitment, which deepens those connections and honors our past.
Context of Ruth 4:5
When reading Ruth 4:5, it is important to understand the context leading up to this verse. The Book of Ruth chronicles the journey of Ruth and Naomi, two women who faced significant challenges after losing their husbands. Following a series of hardships, Ruth shows incredible loyalty and love, choosing to stay by Naomi’s side. Their story takes place during the time of the judges, an era marked by social chaos and personal struggles.
Naomi, having lost her husband and sons, returns to Bethlehem empty. With no hope of financial security or familial support, her future seems grim. However, Ruth accompanies her with a vow of loyalty that shatters cultural norms of the time. Ruth’s courage, though, leads her to glean in the fields of Boaz, a man known for his kindness and generosity.
Boaz, upon seeing Ruth’s dedication, recognizes her and provides her with extra grain as a sign of protection and favor. Their interactions build a sense of trust and respect as he honors her identity as a widow and accepts her as a part of his community. Underneath the surface, Boaz is also motivated by the law of kinsman-redeemer, which states that a relative could redeem family property and take on responsibility for family members.
As we arrive at Ruth 4:5, Boaz is ready to formalize his intentions, addressing the other relative to establish their familial duty to Naomi and Ruth. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of relationship, not only in ownership but in renewing a family line. The Beatitudes of this chapter reveal that God’s purpose always embraces redemption, regardless of background or society’s expectations.
The rich context provides a backdrop of struggle turned into hope. We are called to look at our own lives and consider how our actions may impact those around us, reminding us that we can be agents of change, just as Ruth and Boaz were in their time.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ruth 4:5
Breaking down Ruth 4:5 gives us crucial insights into its components and meanings. In the opening, Boaz addresses the unnamed relative, demonstrating the importance of community and respecting family dynamics. His use of “the day you buy” connects the act of redemption with the responsibility of family lineage. This is not a simple transaction; it is ultimately an act of love meant to honor the deceased.
He reiterates the need to buy the field “from Naomi,” indicating the legal aspect of transferring property ownership. However, it is the addition of “you will also acquire Ruth the Moabite” that adds a layer of depth. By mentioning Ruth and her background, Boaz acknowledges the challenges they might face due to her heritage but firmly stands by her side. The mention of her as a ‘Moabite’ is not to shame her but to highlight the richness of their backgrounds, showing that God’s love extends beyond boundaries.
Ruth being referred to as “the widow of the dead man” emphasizes the importance of human relationships and their impact on one’s identity. The title signifies that she is not alone in her grief; instead, she carries the legacy of her late husband, needing protection and support in a society that shunned widows.
Boaz aims to “maintain the name of the dead,” underscoring the value of family continuity and heritage in biblical culture. Rather than viewing marriage solely through practical or economic lenses, Boaz demonstrates a heart for preservation and honor. This verse challenges us to reflect on how we view our responsibilities to others, urging us to prioritize their dignity and legacy.
Lastly, the phrase “with his property” brings forth the heavy weight of societal expectations. It portrays the challenges associated with preserving a family name and inheritance. Yet, Boaz steps up to the plate, indicating that love and kindness should govern our actions when it comes to family.
Lessons to Learn From Ruth 4:5
Ruth 4:5 offers us numerous lessons that resonate deeply even in our contemporary lives. The first lesson revolves around the concept of loyalty and selflessness. Boaz’s willingness to include Ruth in the redemption process teaches us that love often requires us to embrace those who are different from us. Loyalty should transcend cultures, social norms, and expectations.
Another lesson pertains to the idea of community and responsibility. As we look at Boaz’s actions, we see that he doesn’t just think of his needs. Rather, he actively cares for Naomi, Ruth, and the family lineage, thus demonstrating how each one of us has a role in uplifting those around us. Today, we are called to be responsible stewards of love in our families and communities, dedicating ourselves to helping others in times of struggle.
The act of redemption is another powerful theme found in this verse. It signifies that, through God’s grace, we have the opportunity to redeem our relationships, mistakes, and shortcomings. Boaz represents Christ’s love and how He redeems us into His family. In the same way, when we extend grace and kindness to those around us, we bear witness to the incredible work of God in our lives.
We should also embrace the lesson of embracing diversity. Ruth, being a Moabite, is accepted and valued for her character rather than her heritage. This speaks volumes to us today, especially in a world that often focuses solely on divisions. We must challenge ourselves to go beyond stereotypes and recognize the potential in every individual we encounter.
Lastly, the importance of honoring our past comes to light in this verse. Boaz honors the deceased by willing to take Ruth as his wife. We are prompted to think about how we remember those who have gone before us, ensuring their influences and lessons carry on in our daily lives. Each of us has a legacy, and it is our responsibility to keep that alive by cherishing the values that matter.
Final Thoughts
Ruth 4:5 is not just an isolated verse from the Book of Ruth; it serves as a beautiful reminder of how love, loyalty, and family ties are interconnected. We don’t live in a vacuum, and our actions can have far-reaching effects on others. Boaz’s commitment to Ruth and Naomi is a stirring example that teaches us all about the importance of responsibility and compassion in our lives.
As we reflect on this scripture, let us consider how we can be more like Boaz—selfless, loving, and aware of the needs of others around us. There’s a challenge within these verses for each of us to embrace our role in supporting family and community, going so far as to extend compassion to those who might be different from us.
In conclusion, let’s cherish the values we learn here, allowing them to inspire our daily lives. There’s always a space for redemption and for writing beautiful stories through love. If you feel inspired by the story of Ruth and Boaz, there are more helpful lessons to learn from other scriptures. Explore more in Acts and Joshua as they hold rich stories that shape our understanding of faith and our responsibilities toward one another.
Explore more topics about faith and community by checking out Joshua 10:16 or Acts 14:24.