Ruth 4:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ruth 4:5
5 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.
Chapter Context
Ruth 4 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, discipleship, love. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 4:5
5 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.
Analysis
Full disclosure: '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'. Boaz reveals the complete obligation—redeeming property requires marrying Ruth to produce heir who will inherit the land, perpetuating Elimelech/Mahlon's name. This changes the calculation entirely—the redeemer wouldn't permanently add to his estate but would work land temporarily for another man's heir. The phrase 'Ruth the Moabitess' emphasizes her foreign origin, potentially making marriage additionally unappealing to the kinsman. Boaz's full disclosure demonstrates integrity—he could have concealed this requirement initially but instead ensured informed decision.
Historical Context
Levirate marriage law (Deuteronomy 25:5-10) required deceased man's brother to marry the widow, with first son legally considered the dead man's heir, inheriting his property and perpetuating his name. This obligation combined with property redemption meant the kinsman would purchase land, marry Ruth, father children, but the firstborn son would legally be Mahlon's heir, inheriting the redeemed property. The kinsman would expend resources (purchasing land, maintaining household) without permanent benefit to his estate—the land would eventually go to Ruth's son as Mahlon's legal heir. This explains his subsequent refusal.
Reflection
- What does Boaz's full disclosure teach about Christian honesty in presenting complete facts, even when it might disadvantage us?
- How does the levirate marriage law illustrate God's concern for preserving family identity and caring for widows?
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Genesis 38:8, Matthew 22:24