Ruth 2:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ruth 2:20
20 And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.
Chapter Context
Ruth 2 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, grace, righteousness. Written during the period of the Judges (c. 1100 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: During the tribal confederacy period, local customs and family laws were paramount for survival.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ruth and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ruth 2:20
20 And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.
Analysis
Naomi's response reveals God's providence: 'Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead'. This blessing references God's chesed (covenant loyalty) continuing toward both living (Ruth and Naomi) and dead (Elimelech, Mahlon, Chilion) through raising up a kinsman-redeemer. Naomi explains: 'The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen'. The term go'el (גֹּאֵל, redeemer) appears, indicating Boaz can redeem Elimelech's property and potentially marry Ruth to preserve the family line. Naomi's bitter despair (1:20-21) begins transforming to hope as she recognizes God's redemptive purposes.
Historical Context
The kinsman-redeemer (go'el) concept combined family loyalty with legal responsibility to preserve family property and lineage. Leviticus 25 and Deuteronomy 25 established these laws. Naomi's recognition that Boaz is go'el means he has both right and responsibility to help. Her joy demonstrates faith reviving—God hasn't abandoned them but is orchestrating redemption. The reference to God's kindness toward the dead means preserving their name and inheritance through the kinsman-redeemer system.
Reflection
- How does the kinsman-redeemer concept foreshadow Christ's redemption of believers who cannot redeem themselves?
- What does Naomi's recognition of providence teach about seeing God's faithfulness even after seasons of despair?
Word Studies
- Love: אַהֲבָה / חֶסֶד (Ahavah / Chesed) H2617 - Love / Loyal-love
Cross-References
- References Lord: Philippians 4:10
- Blessing: Ruth 4:14, 2 Samuel 2:5
- Parallel theme: Ruth 4:6, Leviticus 25:25, 2 Samuel 9:1, Job 19:25, Proverbs 17:17