“And the kinsman said, I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I mar mine own inheritance: redeem thou my right to thyself; for I cannot redeem it.”– Ruth 4:6 (KJV)
“The man answered, ‘I can’t redeem it because I might endanger my own estate. You redeem it yourself; I cannot do it.'”– Ruth 4:6 (NLT)
“He said, ‘I can’t do it. I might ruin my own family tree. You take it; I can’t.'”– Ruth 4:6 (MSG)
What Does Ruth 4:6 Mean?
Ruth 4:6 presents a significant moment in the biblical narrative that shows the values of family, inheritance, and social responsibility in ancient Israel. In this context, we see a kinsman who initially had the right to redeem Ruth, the widow of his deceased relative. However, upon considering the implications of redeeming her and her land, he steps back, citing that it could endanger his own estate. This situation brings light to our understanding of how family relations and property rights intertwined in this time period.
The term “kinsman-redeemer” refers to someone within the family who has the duty to help a relative in distress, usually through marrying the widow and ensuring that the family lineage continues. Family was immensely valued, and failing to fulfill these obligations could have serious social consequences. The kinsman acknowledges that taking Ruth as a wife might lead to complications concerning his own children and family lineage, reflecting the heavy weight of family decisions during this era. His refusal allows Boaz, the devoted admirer of Ruth, to step in and take the role of the redeemer.
Ruth 4:6 Explanation and Commentary
This verse emphasizes personal responsibility and the importance of family heritage within the culture of the time. When the unnamed kinsman thinks about redeeming Ruth, he realizes that his choice could negatively affect his own family’s future. The concern for his family’s name and property highlights an essential aspect of biblical values – we are called to think of our families and to prioritize their well-being before making significant decisions.
We often find ourselves weighing our options and considering how our choices affect others in our lives. This verse teaches us that being part of a family comes with responsibilities that we must not take lightly. As in other biblical texts like Leviticus 25:25, where the law of the kinsman-redeemer is discussed, we see that God’s laws encourage the preservation of families and the fair distribution of property. The kinsman’s reluctance can mirror our own hesitations when we see potential consequences that might impact our loved ones.
Ruth’s situation is one that many can relate to. She finds herself in a vulnerable position as a widow. Throughout the story, she has shown incredible loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and has been determined to find a way to provide for them both. Her faith and commitment lead her to Boaz, a man of noble character who ultimately fulfills the role of kinsman-redeemer, ensuring not just legal obligation but also deep love and care for Ruth and Naomi.
This story invites us to think about how often we pass up opportunities to help others due to fear or personal concern. Just like the kinsman in this verse, we may have moments where we hesitate to step forward and make the right choice for fear of what it may cost us. It reinforces that following God often requires us to take risks for the sake of others.
Context of Ruth 4:6
The Book of Ruth is set during the time of the judges, a period marked by social chaos and moral ambiguity. It provides a stark contrast with the surrounding narrative of Israel’s history. This great love story reveals themes of sorrow, loyalty, kindness, and redemption. The circumstances leading to this verse include the earlier crises faced by Naomi when she lost her husband and sons in Moab, leading her to return to Bethlehem with Ruth.
Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her decision to embrace Naomi’s people and God is pivotal to the story. When Boaz realizes Ruth’s loyalty and commitment, he takes it upon himself to initiate the redemption process. The man’s refusal to fulfill his duty leads us to examine the cultural norms surrounding the notions of kinsman-redeemer, family ties, and the weight of decisions made. This verse exists within a courtroom setting where Boaz negotiates the right to marry Ruth and secure the family name of her deceased husband.
It is critical to understand that these events occur in a patriarchal society, where women often had limited rights and roles. Ruth’s journey from a foreign widow to a beloved wife and grandmother to King David emphasizes God’s providence in the lives of those who remain faithful, regardless of their background. There is a much larger narrative here about God’s redemptive power and how it weaves through the lives of people from all walks of life.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ruth 4:6
The beginning of Ruth 4:6 introduces the idea of the kinsman’s dilemma. The man expressed concern for his own inheritance, showcasing the balancing act required in familial duties. When he states he cannot redeem Ruth himself, it is not merely about financial gain or loss, but also about marital and familial implications that could arise.
The phrase “lest I mar mine own inheritance” is deeply reflective of how intertwined one’s identity is with their familial line. As we consider the implication of this statement, we must reflect on the way our decisions affect those around us. When we choose to help another, we often think of how it could disrupt our lives. This calls us to be selfless and to work towards the good of the broader community, rather than just our individual circle.
The latter part of the verse, “redeem thou my right to thyself; for I cannot redeem it,” directs our attention to Boaz. This shows the importance of acting with integrity and purpose when given the chance to respond to God’s calling. Boaz’s character is crucial here, as he later takes on the role of redeemer, showcasing generosity and selflessness.
This verse also reflects a lesson in obedience and waiting on God. The kinsman’s hesitation can be perceived as fear or self-preservation. In contrast, God desires that we seek His will, even when it requires making tough decisions. So often, our fears can hold us back from fulfilling God’s plan for our lives, but we must remember that God has a purpose for each of us.
Lessons to Learn From Ruth 4:6
We can draw many lessons from this verse about responsibility, family, and the importance of listening to God’s leading in our lives. One key lesson is recognizing the weight of our decisions. Just like the kinsman in Ruth 4:6 accepted that his choices could impact his family, we too must understand the ramifications of our actions and how they affect the lives of others.
Let’s look at the theme of loyalty that we see in Ruth’s character. Her commitment and unwavering support for Naomi teach us the value of relationships built on love and sacrifice. Ruth devoted herself to her mother-in-law, demonstrating an example for us to follow in our own relationships. In the face of challenges, we must remain steadfast and dedicated to those we love, even when the path seems unclear.
Another lesson is the realization that life’s choices come with risks, and God often calls us to step out in faith. The kinsman was fearful of losing his inheritance; however, Boaz, by following God’s guidance, experienced immense blessings. We must remind ourselves that navigating through life may bring uncertainty, but with faith, God leads us toward His plans for our lives.
Ruth 4:6 also emphasizes the importance of community and support. The act of redeeming is deeply connected to how we treat our neighbors. This includes helping people in need, supporting family members who are struggling, and instilling a sense of joy and encouragement within our communities. It encourages us to embrace a spirit of generosity, as we uplift one another and work towards common good.
Final Thoughts
Ruth 4:6 serves as an important passage that reflects on familial obligations, personal responsibility, and God’s redemptive purpose in our lives. It shows us that our choices matter and that sometimes stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to incredible blessings for ourselves and others. By understanding the cultural context and the implications of the kinsman’s refusal, we gain insight into the importance of family, loyalty, and the heart behind redemption.
Let us remember Ruth’s incredible journey from loss to love, showcasing unwavering faith and action. Like Ruth, we can strive to be committed to one another and faithfully engage with the responsibilities placed before us. Each of us has the opportunity to play a role in someone else’s narrative, contributing to a beautiful story woven by God through our lives.
If you find this exploration of Ruth inspiring, we invite you to discover more engaging topics in our collection. Explore Acts or hear about faith through Joshua. Let us continue to learn and grow together on our faith journey!