Ruth 3:12

KJV

And now it is true that I [am thy] near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I.

KJV (with Strong's)

And now it is true {H551} that I am thy near kinsman {H1350}: howbeit there is {H3426} a kinsman {H1350} nearer {H7138} than I.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now, it is true that I am a redeeming kinsman; but there is a redeemer who is a closer relative than I am.

Berean Standard Bible

Yes, it is true that I am a kinsman-redeemer, but there is a redeemer nearer than I.

American Standard Version

And now it is true that I am a near kinsman; howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 3:12 captures a pivotal moment in the unfolding narrative of redemption, as Boaz, having been propositioned by Ruth at the threshing floor, affirms his willingness to act as a kinsman-redeemer (`goel`) but reveals a crucial legal impediment: there is another relative who holds a prior claim to this responsibility. This declaration underscores Boaz's unwavering integrity and commitment to Israelite law, setting the stage for the dramatic resolution of the redemption process and highlighting the intricate workings of divine providence in the lives of Ruth and Naomi.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Ruth's bold and vulnerable act of lying at Boaz's feet at the threshing floor, a symbolic gesture of requesting him to fulfill the role of a kinsman-redeemer. Boaz, awakened by Ruth, responds with praise for her virtuous character and loyalty to Naomi, acknowledging her request (as seen in [Ruth 3:10-11](/ruth/3-10 "Ruth 3:10-11 - Boaz's Praise for Ruth")). His statement in [Ruth 3:12](/ruth/3-12 "Ruth 3:12 - Boaz's Dilemma") serves as a direct answer to her plea, affirming his eligibility and desire to redeem her, yet introducing a legal complication that must be resolved before their union can proceed. This sets up the dramatic legal proceedings at the city gate in [Ruth 4](/ruth/4 "Ruth 4 - The Redemption at the Gate"), where Boaz publicly addresses the issue of the nearer kinsman.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of the "kinsman-redeemer" (`goel`) was a vital institution in ancient Israelite society, deeply rooted in the Mosaic Law. The `goel` had specific responsibilities, including redeeming family land that had been sold due to poverty ([Leviticus 25:25](/leviticus/25-25 "Leviticus 25:25 - Redemption of Land")), redeeming a relative from slavery ([Leviticus 25:47-49](/leviticus/25-47 "Leviticus 25:47-49 - Redemption from Slavery")), avenging the blood of a slain relative ([Numbers 35:19](/numbers/35-19 "Numbers 35:19 - The Avenger of Blood")), and, most relevant here, perpetuating the family name and inheritance through levirate marriage, though Boaz's situation is a broader application of the `goel` role rather than strict levirate law. The social structure demanded strict adherence to these legal obligations, with priority given to the closest male relative. Boaz's acknowledgment of a nearer kinsman demonstrates his deep respect for these legal and familial traditions, prioritizing the law over immediate personal desire.

* **Key Themes:** [Ruth 3:12](/ruth/3-12 "Ruth 3:12 - The Nearer Kinsman") is central to several key themes in the Book of Ruth. **Integrity and Righteousness** are powerfully displayed through Boaz's commitment to legal protocol, even when it presents a personal inconvenience. His actions exemplify a righteous character that honors God's law and community standards. The theme of **Divine Providence** is also evident; while a legal obstacle arises, it is clear that God is working through these human laws and choices to bring about His intended outcome for Ruth and Naomi, ultimately leading to the lineage of David and Christ. Finally, the verse profoundly develops the theme of the **Kinsman-Redeemer (`goel`)**, illustrating the precise legal order and the profound implications of this role for property, family lineage, and, ultimately, the redemption of individuals. This earthly type foreshadows the ultimate spiritual redemption found in Christ, our divine `goel`.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kinsman (Hebrew, _go'el'_):** The Hebrew word גֹּאֵל (`go'el`) is crucial to understanding this verse and the entire book. It refers to a redeemer, one who has the right and responsibility to restore a lost inheritance, avenge a wrong, or preserve a family line. The `go'el` was the closest male relative who could act on behalf of a distressed family member. Boaz acknowledges his status as a `go'el` but also points out that there is another `go'el` with a higher priority of claim, emphasizing the strict legal order of redemption in Israelite society. This term carries significant theological weight, foreshadowing the ultimate spiritual redemption.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And now it is true that I [am thy] near kinsman":** Boaz directly affirms Ruth's understanding and request. He confirms his eligibility and willingness to fulfill the role of `goel`. This statement validates Ruth's bold action and assures her that her hope for redemption is well-placed in him. It signals his positive disposition towards her and the potential for their union.
* **"howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I":** This clause introduces the central conflict and legal hurdle. Despite his desire and eligibility, Boaz reveals that another male relative holds a prior claim to the responsibility of redemption. This demonstrates Boaz's unwavering integrity and adherence to the law, even when it delays his personal desires. It sets the stage for the public legal resolution required to properly execute the redemption according to Israelite custom.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices that enhance its narrative impact. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as Boaz's revelation of a nearer kinsman directly sets up the dramatic legal confrontation at the city gate in [Ruth 4](/ruth/4 "Ruth 4 - The Legal Redemption"). This creates suspense and anticipation for how this obstacle will be overcome. There is also an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as the reader, aware of God's overarching plan for Ruth and Naomi, knows that this "obstacle" will ultimately serve to highlight Boaz's righteousness and ensure the proper, God-ordained outcome. The precise, almost legalistic language Boaz uses also emphasizes the **Verisimilitude** of the narrative, grounding the romantic and providential elements in the practical realities of Israelite law and custom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 3:12 is a powerful testament to the themes of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Boaz's integrity in upholding the law, even when it presents an inconvenience to his personal desires, demonstrates a deep commitment to righteousness that aligns with God's character. His actions show that God works not only through miraculous interventions but also through the diligent and ethical adherence to established laws and customs. This verse highlights how God orchestrates events, using human choices and societal structures, to bring about His perfect will, ensuring that the lineage through which the Messiah would come is preserved and honored. The concept of the `goel` here is a profound theological type, pointing beyond itself to the ultimate Redeemer.

* [Leviticus 25:25](/leviticus/25-25 "Leviticus 25:25 - The Law of Redemption")
* [Jeremiah 32:6-8](/jeremiah/32-6 "Jeremiah 32:6-8 - Jeremiah's Act of Redemption")
* [Galatians 4:4-5](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4-5 - Christ Our Redeemer")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The unexpected revelation of a nearer kinsman in Ruth 3:12 offers a profound lesson in patience, integrity, and trust in divine timing. Just as Ruth and Boaz faced a legal hurdle that delayed their union, we often encounter unforeseen obstacles in our own lives, even when we believe we are following God's leading. Boaz's unwavering commitment to doing things "the right way," according to the established law, serves as a powerful model for us. It challenges us to prioritize integrity and ethical conduct, even when immediate gratification or personal desire might tempt us to cut corners. This verse encourages us to trust that God's plan unfolds perfectly, sometimes through detours or delays that ultimately serve a greater purpose. Our reliance on God's sovereignty, coupled with our diligent obedience to His principles, is key to navigating life's complexities and witnessing His redemptive work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Boaz's commitment to legal integrity, despite his personal desire, challenge my own approach to ethical dilemmas?**
* **In what areas of my life am I tempted to bypass established principles for quicker or easier outcomes?**
* **How can I cultivate greater patience and trust in God's timing when faced with unexpected obstacles or delays?**
* **What does the concept of a "nearer kinsman" teach me about the importance of proper order and due process in God's economy?**

### FAQ

**Why was there a nearer kinsman, and why didn't Boaz just marry Ruth immediately?**

Answer: Boaz could not simply marry Ruth immediately because Israelite law regarding the kinsman-redeemer (`goel`) stipulated a specific order of priority based on the closeness of kinship. While Boaz was a qualified kinsman, there was another relative who was even closer to Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech, and therefore had the first right and responsibility to redeem the family's land and, implicitly, marry Ruth to perpetuate the family line. Boaz's integrity and respect for the law meant he had to follow the proper legal procedure, even though it introduced a temporary delay. This adherence to legal protocol is a testament to his character and the importance of law within Israelite society, as detailed in [Ruth 4:1-6](/ruth/4-1 "Ruth 4:1-6 - The Legal Proceedings at the Gate").

**What was the significance of the "kinsman-redeemer" (`goel`) in ancient Israel?**

Answer: The `goel` was a vital figure in ancient Israelite society, serving as a family protector and restorer. This role encompassed several responsibilities, including buying back family land that had been sold due to poverty ([Leviticus 25:25](/leviticus/25-25 "Leviticus 25:25 - Redemption of Land")), redeeming a relative from slavery ([Leviticus 25:47-49](/leviticus/25-47 "Leviticus 25:47-49 - Redemption from Slavery")), and avenging the blood of a slain relative. In the context of Ruth, the `goel`'s role extended to preserving the family line and inheritance, particularly for a widow like Ruth who had no children to carry on her deceased husband's name. The `goel` acted as a champion for the vulnerable and a preserver of family integrity and legacy, making Boaz's role as Ruth's `goel` profoundly significant for her future and the lineage of David.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Boaz as the kinsman-redeemer in Ruth 3:12 serves as a profound Old Testament type pointing to the ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Just as Boaz, though a qualified `goel`, faced a legal impediment that required a public, lawful resolution, so too did Christ, our divine `goel`, have to fulfill all righteousness and satisfy the demands of God's holy law to redeem humanity. Boaz had to "pay a price" by acquiring the land and the right to Ruth, while Christ paid the ultimate price, not with silver or gold, but with His precious blood ([1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption by Christ's Blood")), to redeem us from the slavery of sin and death ([Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeems Us from the Curse")). He, being fully God and fully man, became our "near kinsman" by taking on human flesh ([Hebrews 2:14-17](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-17 - Christ's Incarnation and Priesthood")), thereby qualifying to redeem us from a debt we could never pay. Through His perfect sacrifice and resurrection, Christ has secured for us an eternal inheritance and a place in God's family, fulfilling the deepest spiritual longings foreshadowed in the beautiful story of Ruth and Boaz ([Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood")).

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

Ruth 4:1

¶ Then 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 4:6

That 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 7:12

¶ Therefore 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.