Ruth 4:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ruth 4:20
20 And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon,
Chapter Context
Ruth 4 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, prayer, 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 21-22: 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 4:20
20 And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon,
Analysis
Genealogy progresses: 'And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon'. Nahshon was prince of Judah during the Exodus (Numbers 1:7; 7:12), brother of Aaron's wife Elisheba (Exodus 6:23), making him Moses and Aaron's brother-in-law. This connection shows Ruth's integration into Israel's leadership families. Salmon married Rahab the Canaanite (Matthew 1:5), making Boaz son of another foreign woman of faith. This pattern—foreign women incorporated through faith and marriage into messianic line—demonstrates God's grace transcending ethnicity.
Historical Context
Nahshon's prominence in wilderness generation (he led Judah's first tribal offering at tabernacle dedication—Numbers 7:12-17) established his family's significance. The marriage to Rahab parallels Ruth's story—another foreign woman demonstrating faith, incorporated into Israel, contributing to messianic lineage. The pattern of Gentile women in Jesus' genealogy (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba) emphasizes that salvation comes by faith, not ethnicity, foreshadowing the gospel's universal scope.
Reflection
- What does the recurring pattern of foreign women in messianic lineage teach about God's inclusive grace?
- How does this demonstrate that God's promises reach all who come to Him in faith?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Numbers 1:7