Ruth Chapter 3 · Verse 12
And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I.
Original Language Analysis
וְעַתָּה֙
H6258
כִּ֣י
H3588
כִּ֣י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
2 of 12
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
כִּ֥י
H3588
כִּ֥י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
4 of 12
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אִם
H518
אִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
5 of 12
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
גֹּאֵ֖ל
a kinsman
H1350
גֹּאֵ֖ל
a kinsman
Strong's:
H1350
Word #:
6 of 12
to redeem (according to the middle eastern law of kinship), i.e., to be the next of kin (and as such to buy back a relative's property, marry his wido
וְגַ֛ם
H1571
וְגַ֛ם
Strong's:
H1571
Word #:
8 of 12
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
יֵ֥שׁ
howbeit there is
H3426
יֵ֥שׁ
howbeit there is
Strong's:
H3426
Word #:
9 of 12
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
גֹּאֵ֖ל
a kinsman
H1350
גֹּאֵ֖ל
a kinsman
Strong's:
H1350
Word #:
10 of 12
to redeem (according to the middle eastern law of kinship), i.e., to be the next of kin (and as such to buy back a relative's property, marry his wido
Cross References
Ruth 4:1Then went Boaz up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by; unto whom he said, Ho, such a one! turn aside, sit down here. And he turned aside, and sat down.1 Thessalonians 4:6That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.Matthew 7:12Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Historical Context
Israelite kinship structures created hierarchy of redemption responsibility. Closer relatives had first rights and obligations to redeem property and marry widows. Boaz's acknowledgment of the nearer kinsman demonstrates both legal knowledge and moral integrity. Ancient Near Eastern culture emphasized honor and reputation—Boaz wouldn't compromise proper procedures for personal desire. The narrative creates suspense: will the nearer kinsman claim his right? God's sovereignty works through human legal processes, not bypassing but working within them.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Boaz's honesty despite personal interest teach about Christian integrity in relationships?
- How does this demonstrate the principle of doing right even when it might cost us desired outcomes?
Analysis & Commentary
Complication: 'And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I'. Boaz confirms his go'el status but reveals an obstacle—a closer relative with prior legal right to redeem. This complication demonstrates Boaz's integrity—he could have concealed this information and claimed Ruth immediately, but he insists on proper legal process. His honesty despite personal interest shows character and teaches that biblical ethics require transparency and following proper procedures even when inconvenient.