Ruth 2:20

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Naomi {H5281} said {H559} unto her daughter in law {H3618}, Blessed {H1288} be he of the LORD {H3068}, who hath not left off {H5800} his kindness {H2617} to the living {H2416} and to the dead {H4191}. And Naomi {H5281} said {H559} unto her, The man {H376} is near of kin {H7138} unto us, one of our next kinsmen {H1350}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Na'omi said to her daughter-in-law, "May he be blessed by ADONAI, who has never stopped showing grace, neither to the living nor to the dead." Na'omi also told her, "The man is closely related to us; he's one of our redeeming kinsmen."

Berean Standard Bible

Then Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May he be blessed by the LORD, who has not withdrawn His kindness from the living or the dead.” Naomi continued, “The man is a close relative. He is one of our kinsman-redeemers.”

American Standard Version

And Naomi said unto her daughter-in-law, Blessed be he of Jehovah, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is nigh of kin unto us, one of our near kinsmen.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 2:20 marks a profound turning point in the narrative, as Naomi, previously steeped in bitterness and despair, experiences a dramatic shift in perspective. Upon learning of Boaz's extraordinary kindness and generosity towards Ruth in the harvest fields, Naomi recognizes the providential hand of God at work. Her exclamation of blessing reveals her renewed hope and understanding that Boaz is not merely a benevolent landowner but a close relative, specifically a "kinsman-redeemer" (Hebrew: *goel*), whose legal and social responsibilities are crucial for the family's survival and future. This revelation sets the stage for the redemptive climax of the book of Ruth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Ruth's return from gleaning in Boaz's field, laden with an ephah of barley (approximately 30-50 pounds), a remarkably generous yield for a single day's work. Naomi, astonished by the abundance, inquires about the field where Ruth gleaned. Upon hearing that it was Boaz's field, Naomi's response is a pivotal moment, shifting the narrative from Ruth's diligent labor and Boaz's kindness to the strategic implications of his identity. It directly contrasts with Naomi's earlier lament in [Ruth 1:20-21](/ruth/1-20 "Ruth 1:20-21 - Naomi's Bitterness") where she declared the Almighty had dealt "very bitterly" with her, emptying her of everything. Here, her words signal a dawning recognition of God's renewed favor and active involvement in their lives. The discovery of Boaz's kinship transforms a simple act of charity into a potential pathway for their family's redemption and restoration.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite society placed immense importance on family lineage, land inheritance, and the care of widows and the vulnerable. The practice of gleaning, as seen in [Deuteronomy 24:19-22](/deuteronomy/24-19 "Deuteronomy 24:19-22 - Laws of Gleaning"), was a divinely mandated provision for the poor and the sojourner, ensuring that even the most destitute could find sustenance. More critically, the concept of the "kinsman-redeemer" (*goel*) was a vital legal and social institution. A *goel* was a close male relative who had the right and responsibility to protect the interests of his extended family. This included redeeming family land that had been sold due to poverty ([Leviticus 25:25](/leviticus/25-25 "Leviticus 25:25 - Redemption of Land")), buying back family members sold into slavery ([Leviticus 25:48](/leviticus/25-48 "Leviticus 25:48 - Redemption of Slaves")), or avenging the blood of a slain relative ([Numbers 35:19](/numbers/35-19 "Numbers 35:19 - Avenger of Blood")). In the context of Ruth, the *goel* also had the responsibility, though not always the obligation, to perform levirate marriage, marrying the widow of a deceased kinsman to raise up an heir for the deceased, thereby preserving his name and inheritance ([Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Levirate Marriage Law")). Naomi's recognition of Boaz as a *goel* immediately elevates his kindness from mere generosity to a potential fulfillment of these crucial societal and legal obligations.

* **Key Themes:** Ruth 2:20 powerfully articulates several central themes of the book. First, it highlights **Divine Providence and Faithfulness**, demonstrating how God's active care works through human agents. Naomi's blessing, "Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness," directly attributes Boaz's actions to God's enduring *chesed* (steadfast love or covenant loyalty), even when circumstances seemed bleak. This signifies a profound shift from despair to recognizing God's unseen hand guiding events. Second, the verse underscores the profound meaning of **_Chesed_ (Steadfast Love)**. Boaz's actions exemplify this deep, loyal kindness, which is not merely polite generosity but a commitment rooted in covenant faithfulness, mirroring God's own character. This *chesed* is shown to both "the living" (Naomi and Ruth) and "the dead" (Elimelech and his sons), aiming to preserve their legacy. Third, the verse introduces the pivotal theme of **Redemption through the Kinsman-Redeemer (_Goel_)**. Naomi's declaration, "The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen," unveils Boaz's crucial role as a *goel*, setting the stage for the legal and theological resolution of the narrative, which will involve the preservation of Elimelech's family line and inheritance. This concept is foundational to understanding the plot's development in [Ruth 3](/ruth/3 "Ruth 3 - Ruth's Request to Boaz") and [Ruth 4](/ruth/4 "Ruth 4 - Boaz Redeems Ruth").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kindness (Hebrew, _ḥesed'_):** This is a profound theological term in the Old Testament, often translated as "steadfast love," "covenant loyalty," "mercy," or "lovingkindness." It describes a loyal, persistent, and active love that goes beyond mere sentiment, demonstrated in concrete actions of faithfulness and devotion within a relationship, especially a covenantal one. Here, Naomi attributes Boaz's *ḥesed* not only to him but ultimately to the LORD, signifying that Boaz's actions are a manifestation of God's own enduring covenant faithfulness to them, even in their vulnerability. It implies a love that does not give up or cease, extended even to the "dead" by seeking to preserve their name and legacy.
* **Kinsmen (Hebrew, _gō'ēl'_):** This term is central to the book's theological message. A *goel* was a male relative who held specific legal and social rights and responsibilities within the extended family structure. His primary role was to "redeem" or "restore" what was lost or endangered within the family. This could involve buying back land, freeing a relative from slavery, avenging a death, or, as in this context, marrying a deceased kinsman's widow to raise up an heir and preserve the family name and inheritance. Naomi's identification of Boaz as a *goel* immediately shifts the narrative from charitable provision to a potential legal and familial redemption, highlighting Boaz's unique position and responsibility.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed [be] he of the LORD":** Naomi's initial reaction is one of profound blessing and gratitude, not just towards Boaz, but specifically attributing the source of the blessing and Boaz's actions to the LORD. This marks a significant spiritual turning point for Naomi, moving from her earlier bitterness and sense of abandonment by God ([Ruth 1:20-21](/ruth/1-20 "Ruth 1:20-21 - Naomi's Bitter Lament")) to recognizing His active, benevolent hand in their circumstances. Her words acknowledge divine providence working through human kindness.
* **"who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead":** This clause unpacks the nature of the blessing. The "kindness" is *ḥesed*, God's steadfast, covenantal love. The phrase "not left off" emphasizes the continuity and enduring nature of this *ḥesed*. It is extended to "the living" (Naomi and Ruth, who are currently benefiting from Boaz's generosity and the prospect of a future) and to "the dead" (Elimelech and his sons, whose lineage and name are in danger of extinction). This suggests that God's faithfulness extends beyond the grave, honoring past covenant relationships and seeking to preserve the memory and legacy of the deceased through the continuation of their family line.
* **"And Naomi said unto her, The man [is] near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.":** This second declaration by Naomi is a direct, practical revelation that clarifies Boaz's identity and his crucial role. The repetition of "And Naomi said unto her" emphasizes the importance of this statement. "Near of kin" and "one of our next kinsmen" both translate the Hebrew *gō'ēl*, the kinsman-redeemer. This is the pivotal piece of information that transforms the story from one of simple charity to a complex legal and theological drama centered on redemption. Naomi now understands that Boaz is not just a kind stranger, but the very person who has the legal right and responsibility to restore their family's fortunes and secure their future, particularly through the institution of levirate marriage.

#### Literary Devices
Ruth 2:20 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is **Irony**, as Naomi, who previously declared the Almighty had dealt "very bitterly" with her and left her "empty" ([Ruth 1:20-21](/ruth/1-20 "Ruth 1:20-21 - Naomi's Bitterness")), now blesses the LORD for His enduring "kindness." This dramatic shift highlights the transformative power of God's providence and the dawning of hope. The verse also utilizes **Foreshadowing**, as Naomi's identification of Boaz as a "kinsman-redeemer" (goel) sets the entire trajectory for the remainder of the book, hinting at the legal and social mechanisms that will lead to Ruth's marriage and the continuation of Elimelech's line. This concept becomes the central plot device. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Thematic Resonance**, as Boaz's human kindness (his *chesed*) is explicitly linked to God's divine *chesed*, demonstrating how God's covenant love is often mediated through the faithful actions of His people. The **Repetition** of "And Naomi said unto her" emphasizes the dual nature of her response: first, a theological blessing, and second, a practical, strategic revelation of Boaz's identity, underscoring the significance of both aspects.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 2:20 is a theological pivot, revealing the intersection of human faithfulness and divine providence. Naomi's recognition of Boaz's *ḥesed* (steadfast love) as an extension of the LORD's own *ḥesed* underscores the biblical truth that God often works through the ordinary, yet faithful, actions of His people. This verse solidifies the theme of God's enduring covenant loyalty, which does not abandon His people even in their deepest despair, extending His kindness not only to the living but also honoring the legacy of the dead. The introduction of the *goel* (kinsman-redeemer) concept is profoundly significant, establishing a legal and social framework that foreshadows the ultimate redemption found in Christ. It highlights God's provision for restoration, ensuring that what is lost (family name, inheritance, security) can be reclaimed through a qualified kinsman.

* [Leviticus 25:25](/leviticus/25-25 "Leviticus 25:25 - Redemption of Land")
* [Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Levirate Marriage Law")
* [Psalm 136:1](/psalms/136-1 "Psalm 136:1 - God's Steadfast Love Endures Forever")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 2:20 invites us to cultivate a posture of spiritual discernment and gratitude, even amidst challenging circumstances. Like Naomi, who moved from bitterness to blessing, we are called to recognize God's providential hand at work in our lives, often through the unexpected kindness of others. This verse challenges us to look beyond immediate difficulties and perceive the deeper currents of God's faithfulness, which never ceases, extending His *chesed* to us in every season. It also serves as a powerful call to embody the *chesed* of God in our own lives, actively seeking opportunities to extend steadfast love, loyalty, and practical kindness to those in need, especially the vulnerable. Boaz's example reminds us that true generosity is not merely transactional but rooted in a compassionate heart that reflects divine attributes. Finally, understanding the role of the *goel* deepens our appreciation for the concept of redemption, prompting us to consider what aspects of our lives, or the lives of others, are in need of restoration and how God, through His ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, provides that hope.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can we cultivate a spirit of gratitude and recognize God's providential hand, even when our circumstances seem bleak, as Naomi eventually did?**
* **In what practical ways can we demonstrate *chesed* (steadfast love and loyal kindness) to those around us, reflecting God's character?**
* **How does the concept of the *goel* (kinsman-redeemer) in Ruth deepen your understanding and appreciation for the redemptive work of Jesus Christ in your own life?**

### FAQ
**What does Naomi mean by God's "kindness to the living and to the dead"?**

Answer: Naomi's statement refers to God's enduring *ḥesed* (steadfast love or covenant loyalty). "To the living" refers to Naomi and Ruth, who are currently experiencing God's provision and care through Boaz's generosity, offering them hope for survival and a future. "To the dead" refers to Elimelech and his sons, Mahlon and Chilion. In ancient Israelite culture, the continuation of a family's name and lineage was paramount. If a man died without an heir, his name and inheritance were in danger of being "cut off." By identifying Boaz as a *goel* (kinsman-redeemer), Naomi recognizes that God's kindness extends to honoring the memory and legacy of her deceased husband and sons by potentially raising up an heir through Boaz, thereby preserving their name and inheritance in Israel. It signifies God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, even to those who have passed away, ensuring their legacy ensures.

**What is the significance of Boaz being identified as a "kinsman-redeemer" (*goel*)?**

Answer: The identification of Boaz as a *goel* (Hebrew for "kinsman-redeemer") is the central revelation of this verse and crucial to the entire book of Ruth. A *goel* was a specific male relative with legal and social responsibilities to protect the interests of his extended family. These responsibilities included redeeming land that had been sold due to poverty ([Leviticus 25:25](/leviticus/25-25 "Leviticus 25:25 - Redemption of Land")), buying back family members sold into slavery ([Leviticus 25:48](/leviticus/25-48 "Leviticus 25:48 - Redemption of Slaves")), avenging the blood of a slain relative ([Numbers 35:19](/numbers/35-19 "Numbers 35:19 - Avenger of Blood")), and, most relevant here, performing levirate marriage to raise up an heir for a deceased kinsman who died childless ([Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Levirate Marriage Law")). Naomi's declaration means that Boaz is not just a kind benefactor, but the specific individual who has the legal right and social obligation to restore their family's fortunes, secure Ruth's future, and ensure the continuation of Elimelech's lineage. This sets the stage for the dramatic events of [Ruth 3](/ruth/3 "Ruth 3 - Ruth's Bold Request") and [Ruth 4](/ruth/4 "Ruth 4 - Boaz Redeems Ruth"), where Boaz fulfills this redemptive role.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth 2:20, by introducing Boaz as the *goel* or kinsman-redeemer, provides a profound foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, our ultimate Redeemer. Just as Boaz was "near of kin" to Naomi and Ruth, Jesus, in His incarnation, became "near of kin" to humanity, sharing in our flesh and blood so that He might redeem us ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Jesus Shares in Humanity")). Boaz's *chesed* (steadfast love) towards Ruth, a foreign widow, mirrors Christ's unparalleled *chesed* towards a lost and alienated humanity, extending grace and mercy beyond what we deserve. As the *goel*, Boaz had the right and ability to redeem the family's land and raise up an heir, thereby restoring what was lost and securing a future. Similarly, Jesus, through His sacrificial death and resurrection, became our divine Kinsman-Redeemer, paying the ultimate price to redeem us from the slavery of sin and death ([Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood")). He restores our lost inheritance, granting us adoption into God's family and securing our eternal future ([Galatians 4:4-5](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4-5 - Adoption as Sons")). Just as Boaz brought Naomi and Ruth from emptiness to fullness, Christ brings us from spiritual poverty and despair to abundant life and a glorious hope, ensuring that our name is not cut off but eternally written in the Lamb's Book of Life ([Revelation 21:27](/revelation/21-27 "Revelation 21:27 - Book of Life")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Samuel 2:5

And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabeshgilead, and said unto them, Blessed [be] ye of the LORD, that ye have shewed this kindness unto your lord, [even] unto Saul, and have buried him.

Ruth 3:9

And he said, Who [art] thou? And she answered, I [am] Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou [art] a near kinsman.

Ruth 3:10

And he said, Blessed [be] thou of the LORD, my daughter: [for] thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich.

Proverbs 17:17

¶ A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Deuteronomy 25:5

¶ If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her.

Deuteronomy 25:7

And if the man like not to take his brother's wife, then let his brother's wife go up to the gate unto the elders, and say, My husband's brother refuseth to raise up unto his brother a name in Israel, he will not perform the duty of my husband's brother.

Leviticus 25:25

If thy brother be waxen poor, and hath sold away [some] of his possession, and if any of his kin come to redeem it, then shall he redeem that which his brother sold.