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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Ruth 4:13–22. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. Ruth a wife. Boaz took her, with the usual solemnities, to his house, and she became his wife (Rut 4:13), all the city, no doubt, congratulating the preferment of a virtuous woman, purely for her virtues. We have reason to think that Orpah, who returned from Naomi to her people and her gods, was never half so well preferred as Ruth was. He that forsakes all for Christ shall find more than all with him; it shall be recompensed a hundred-fold in this present time. Now Orpah wished she had gone with Naomi too; but she, like the other kinsman, stood in her own light. Boaz had prayed that this pious proselyte might receive a full reward of her courage and constancy from the God of Israel, under whose wings she had come to trust; and now he became an instrument of that kindness, which was an answer to his prayer, and helped to make his own words good. Now she had the command of those servants with whom she had associated and of those fields in which she had gleaned. Thus sometimes God raiseth up the poor out of the dust, to set them with princes, Psa 113:7, Psa 113:8.
II.Ruth a mother:
The Lord gave her conception; for the fruit of the womb is his reward, Psa 127:3. It is one of the keys he hath in his hand; and he sometimes makes the barren woman that had been long so to be a joyful mother of children, Psa 113:9; Isa 54:1.
III.Ruth still a daughter-in-law, and the same that she always was, to Naomi, who was so far from being forgotten that she was a principal sharer in these new joys. The good women that were at the labour when this child was born congratulated Naomi upon it more than either Boaz or Ruth, because she was the match-maker, and it was the family of her husband that was hereby built up. See here, as before, what an air of devotion there was then even in the common expressions of civility among the Israelites. Prayer to God attended the birth of the child. What a pity it is that such pious language should either be disused among Christians or degenerate into a formality. "Blessed be the Lord that has sent thee this grandson," Rut 4:14, Rut 4:15.
1.Who was the preserver of the name of her family, and who, they hoped, would be famous, because his father was so.
2.Who would be hereafter dutiful and kind to her, so they hoped, because his mother was so. If he would but take after her, he would be a comfort to his aged grandmother, a restorer of her life, and, if there should be occasion, would have wherewithal to be the nourisher of her old age. It is a great comfort to those that are going into years to see any of those that descend from them growing up, that are likely, by the blessing of God, to be a stay and support to them, when the years come wherein they will need such, and of which they will say they have no pleasure in them. Observe, They say of Ruth that she loved Naomi, and therefore was better to her than seven sons. See how God in his providence sometimes makes up the want and loss of those relations from whom we expected most comfort in those from whom we expected least. The bonds of love prove stronger than those of nature, and there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother; so here there was a daughter-in-law better than an own child. See what wisdom and grace will do. Now here,
(1.)The child is named by the neighbours, Rut 4:17. The good women would have it called Obed, a servant, either in remembrance of the meanness and poverty of the mother or in prospect of his being hereafter a servant, and very serviceable, to his grandmother. It is no dishonour to those that are ever so well born to be servants to God, their friends, and their generation. The motto of the princes of Wales is Ich dien - I serve.
(2.)The child is nursed by the grandmother, that is, dry-nursed, when the mother had weaned him from the breast, Rut 4:16. She laid it in her bosom, in token of her tender affection to it and care of it. Grandmothers are often the most fond.
IV.Ruth is hereby brought in among the ancestors of David and Christ, which was the greatest honour.
The genealogy is here drawn from Pharez, through Boaz and Obed, to David, and so leads towards the Messiah, and therefore it is not an endless genealogy.
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Summary
Ruth 4:21 is a concise yet profoundly significant verse, serving as a vital link in the concluding genealogy of the Book of Ruth. It meticulously traces the lineage from Salmon to Boaz, and then to Obed, thereby establishing a direct ancestral connection that culminates in King David and, ultimately, in Jesus Christ. This verse underscores the divine orchestration of seemingly ordinary human events—marriages and births—to meticulously unfold God's grand redemptive plan throughout history, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His covenant promises through a chosen lineage.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is embedded within the climactic genealogy that concludes the Book of Ruth, spanning Ruth 4:18-22. It immediately follows the joyful and divinely blessed union of Boaz and Ruth, and the subsequent birth of their son, Obed, as detailed in Ruth 4:13-17. The inclusion of this genealogy is not merely an appendix or a historical record; it is the theological capstone of the entire narrative, elevating the personal story of Ruth and Boaz beyond a simple romance to a pivotal moment in salvation history. It provides the necessary bridge, connecting the events of Bethlehem during the period of the Judges directly to the emergence of Israel's greatest king, David, whose lineage is crucial for the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, particularly the Davidic Covenant. The narrative arc, which began with loss and emptiness for Naomi, finds its complete restoration and ultimate purpose in the birth of Obed and his place within this Messianic line.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Book of Ruth is set during the tumultuous period of the Judges, a time characterized by moral and spiritual decline where "everyone did what was right in their own eyes" (Judges 21:25). Within this context, the emphasis on a righteous lineage and the meticulous recording of "begats" was paramount. Genealogies served to establish identity, inheritance rights, and tribal affiliation, confirming one's place within the covenant community and ensuring the continuation of family names and property. The concept of the kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: go'el), exemplified by Boaz, was a crucial legal and social institution designed to preserve family lines, land, and provide for the vulnerable, particularly widows. Ruth's status as a Moabitess, a foreigner from a nation traditionally hostile to Israel and excluded from the assembly of the Lord (Deuteronomy 23:3), makes her inclusion in this vital Israelite genealogy exceptionally significant. It highlights God's sovereign hand in transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries for His redemptive purposes, demonstrating His grace extends beyond the conventional boundaries of Israel.
Key Themes
Ruth 4:21 powerfully reinforces several overarching themes of the book and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights Divine Providence and Sovereignty, demonstrating how God meticulously orchestrates human affairs, even seemingly ordinary ones like a marriage between a foreign widow and a local landowner, to achieve His grand, long-term purposes. The lineage itself is a testament to God's active involvement in history, guiding specific individuals to fulfill His will. Secondly, the verse underscores the Continuity of God's Promises. By explicitly linking Salmon, Boaz, and Obed, and then extending to David in Ruth 4:22, the genealogy affirms God's faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham, promising a great nation and blessing through his descendants (Genesis 12:2-3). This also anticipates the Davidic Covenant, promising an eternal dynasty and a perpetual throne (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Finally, the verse speaks to Redemption and Inclusion. Boaz's role as kinsman-redeemer is central, and his act of redemption not only secures Naomi's family line but also brings Ruth, a Gentile, into the very lineage of Israel's greatest king and, ultimately, the Messiah. This inclusion foreshadows God's expansive redemptive plan that embraces all nations, a theme profoundly developed in the New Testament.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From a root meaning "investiture," Salmon is identified as the father of Boaz. His inclusion here is significant as he is traditionally linked in the New Testament genealogies to Rahab, the Canaanite woman who aided the Israelite spies in Jericho (Matthew 1:5). This connection underscores a remarkable pattern in the Messianic lineage, where God sovereignly incorporates individuals from unexpected backgrounds, including Gentiles, into His redemptive plan.
This primitive root verb carries a broad semantic range, meaning "to bear young," "to bring forth," or "to father." In genealogical contexts, as seen here, it specifically signifies direct paternal descent, establishing a clear and legitimate lineage. The repetition of this verb in the verse emphasizes the unbroken chain of generations, each link essential and divinely purposed for the unfolding of God's grand plan. It highlights the biological continuity that serves a theological end.
The name Boaz, from an unused root of uncertain meaning, is famously associated with one of the two pillars in front of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 7:21). In the Book of Ruth, Boaz is the central male figure, embodying righteousness, integrity, and compassion. Most importantly, he functions as the kinsman-redeemer (go'el), fulfilling his legal and moral obligation to Naomi's family by marrying Ruth and raising up an heir for the deceased Elimelech. His act of redemption is pivotal, not only securing the future of Naomi and Ruth but also ensuring the continuation of the lineage that would lead to David and ultimately to Christ.
As an active participle meaning "serving" or "worshipping," Obed is the son of Boaz and Ruth, born through an act of divine blessing and human faithfulness. His birth is celebrated by the women of Bethlehem as a restorer of life and a nourisher of Naomi's old age (Ruth 4:15). More critically, Obed serves as the direct link between the story of Ruth and the Davidic monarchy, being explicitly identified as the father of Jesse, who was the father of David (Ruth 4:22). His name, "serving," may subtly point to his foundational role in the lineage of the ultimate Servant King.
Verse Breakdown
"And Salmon begat Boaz"
This clause establishes the initial link in the specific segment of the genealogy presented in this verse. It traces the paternal line from Salmon to his son, Boaz, ensuring the continuity of the lineage that will eventually lead to David. The traditional identification of Salmon's wife as Rahab (Matthew 1:5) adds a profound layer of theological depth, hinting at God's inclusive grace even before the time of David. This connection underscores that the Messianic line was not exclusively "pure" by human standards but was shaped by divine election and grace, incorporating individuals from diverse backgrounds and demonstrating God's sovereign choice.
"and Boaz begat Obed"
This second clause is the culmination of the Book of Ruth's narrative, marking the pivotal outcome of the kinsman-redeemer's actions. Boaz, the faithful and compassionate go'el, through his marriage to Ruth, fathers Obed. This act of procreation is not merely biological but profoundly theological, as it represents the successful fulfillment of the redemption narrative. Obed's birth signifies the restoration of Naomi's household, the blessing upon Ruth's faithfulness, and the secure continuation of the lineage through which God's promises would be realized. Without Boaz's redemptive act, this crucial link to David would have been broken, highlighting the immense significance of his obedience and compassion in God's unfolding plan.
Literary Devices
The brevity of Ruth 4:21 belies its rich literary function within the biblical narrative. The primary device employed is Genealogy, which in biblical literature serves multiple purposes beyond mere record-keeping. Genealogies establish legitimacy, demonstrate continuity, and, most importantly, convey profound theological meaning. Here, it functions as a Climactic Conclusion, providing the ultimate resolution and significance to the entire narrative of Ruth. The personal story of a Moabite widow and a righteous Israelite landowner is elevated from a local tale to a pivotal moment in salvation history by its placement within the Davidic lineage. The verse also employs Foreshadowing, subtly hinting at the future greatness of David and the ultimate coming of the Messiah, whose lineage is meticulously traced through these very individuals. The meticulous tracing of the line from Salmon to Obed points forward to the fulfillment of God's covenant promises through a specific royal lineage. Furthermore, there is an element of Inclusio when considering the broader book; the opening chapters deal with the loss of family, land, and lineage, while the closing genealogy provides the triumphant restoration and continuation of that lineage, culminating in the birth of the ancestor of Israel's greatest king, thus bringing the narrative full circle from emptiness to fullness.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Ruth 4:21, though a simple genealogical statement, is deeply woven into the fabric of biblical theology, particularly concerning God's covenant faithfulness and His overarching plan of redemption. It demonstrates that God works through specific individuals and generations to bring about His purposes, often using unexpected people and circumstances. The inclusion of Ruth, a Moabitess, in this sacred lineage highlights God's inclusive grace, foreshadowing the extension of salvation beyond Israel to the Gentiles. This verse affirms God's meticulous sovereignty, showing that even seemingly ordinary events like births are part of His grand design to bring forth the promised King and Redeemer. It is a testament to the fact that God's promises are not abstract but are fulfilled through real people, in real history, over long periods of time, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His covenants and His patient, purposeful work across generations to bring about His ultimate redemptive goal.
Reflection and Application
Ruth 4:21, a mere two-clause statement of lineage, carries profound implications for our lives as believers. It reminds us that God's great redemptive plan is not enacted in grand, isolated moments but is meticulously woven through the faithfulness and obedience of ordinary people across generations. Salmon, Boaz, and Obed were not necessarily famous in their day beyond their local communities, yet their lives, their choices, and their very existence were integral to God's unfolding story. This encourages us to see our own lives, however seemingly unremarkable, as part of God's ongoing narrative. Our faithfulness in daily duties, our acts of kindness, our commitment to family, and our trust in God's provision—even when we cannot see the full scope of His plan—contribute to His larger purposes. This verse calls us to trust in God's sovereign hand, knowing that He is working all things together for good, even through the mundane details of life, to bring about His ultimate glory and our redemption. It invites us to live with intentionality, recognizing that our present faithfulness can have eternal repercussions, shaping the future generations and contributing to God's kingdom work in ways we may never fully comprehend.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is this genealogy included at the very end of the Book of Ruth?
The genealogy at the end of the Book of Ruth (specifically Ruth 4:18-22) serves as the theological climax and purpose of the entire narrative. It elevates the personal story of Ruth and Boaz from a simple account of love and redemption to a pivotal moment in salvation history. Its inclusion explicitly connects the events in Bethlehem during the time of the Judges to the lineage of King David, thereby legitimizing David's claim to the throne and demonstrating God's meticulous hand in preserving the line through which the Messiah would come. Without this genealogy, the profound significance of Ruth and Boaz's story within God's redemptive plan would be largely lost, as it would lack its ultimate connection to the broader biblical narrative of salvation.
Who was Salmon, and why is his mention in this verse significant?
Salmon is identified in Ruth 4:21 as the father of Boaz. His significance is further illuminated in the New Testament, specifically in the genealogy of Jesus presented in Matthew 1:5. There, Salmon is named as the husband of Rahab, the Canaanite woman from Jericho who aided the Israelite spies (Joshua 2:1-21). This connection makes Salmon's inclusion in the lineage of David (and thus of Jesus) highly significant. It highlights God's sovereign choice to include individuals from outside the covenant community, like Rahab (a Canaanite) and Ruth (a Moabitess), in the direct ancestral line of the Messiah, underscoring the theme of God's inclusive grace and His plan to extend salvation to all peoples, regardless of their ethnic or historical background.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Ruth 4:21 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. This seemingly simple genealogical statement is a direct link in the lineage that culminates in the birth of the Savior, as explicitly recorded in Matthew 1:5 where it states, "Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of King David." The entire narrative of Ruth, culminating in this verse, powerfully foreshadows Christ's redemptive work. Boaz, the kinsman-redeemer, who sacrifices his own interests to redeem Naomi's family and marry Ruth, is a powerful type of Christ, our ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer. Just as Boaz brought Ruth, a Gentile outsider, into the covenant family and the Messianic line, so too does Christ, through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, redeem humanity and bring both Jew and Gentile into God's family, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility (Ephesians 2:13-16). The inclusion of Ruth, a Moabitess, in this sacred lineage is a powerful testament to God's plan to bless all nations through the "seed" of Abraham (Genesis 22:18), a promise ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who came to be a light to the Gentiles and the glory of His people Israel (Luke 2:32). Thus, Ruth 4:21 is not just ancient history; it is a vital thread in the tapestry of God's redemptive story, meticulously woven by divine providence, pointing directly to the person and saving work of our Lord Jesus Christ.