Ruth 3:12

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

Context of Ruth 3:12

Ruth 3:12 is a pivotal moment in the Book of Ruth, occurring after Ruth has followed Naomi's instruction to go to the threshing floor and lie at Boaz's feet. This bold act, done in the quiet of the night, was Ruth's way of proposing marriage and requesting Boaz to fulfill the role of a kinsman-redeemer, or goel. In ancient Israel, the kinsman-redeemer was a close male relative who had the responsibility to buy back family land that had been sold, redeem a relative from slavery, or, in certain cases related to levirate marriage, marry a deceased kinsman's widow to perpetuate his name and inheritance. Boaz, acknowledging Ruth's request and her virtuous character (Ruth 3:11), confirms his willingness but reveals a crucial legal detail.

Meaning and Significance

In this verse, Boaz directly addresses Ruth's proposition: "And now it is true that I [am thy] near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I." This statement holds immense significance for the unfolding narrative.

  • Boaz's Affirmation: He confirms that he is indeed a qualified kinsman, capable of fulfilling the role Ruth desires. This assures Ruth that her bold plan is not misguided.
  • Adherence to Law: Despite his clear affection for Ruth and his desire to marry her, Boaz demonstrates his unwavering integrity and respect for the law. He knows there is a nearer relative who has the first right of redemption. This highlights the importance of legal and familial obligations within Israelite society, even when personal desires are strong.
  • A Legal Obstacle: The revelation of a nearer kinsman introduces a temporary hurdle to Ruth and Boaz's union. It sets the stage for the dramatic scene at the city gate in the next chapter, where Boaz will legally resolve this issue.

Key Themes

  • Integrity and Righteousness: Boaz's character shines through as he prioritizes adherence to the law over immediate gratification. His actions exemplify biblical righteousness and faithfulness to community standards.
  • Divine Providence: Even with this unexpected legal detail, God's hand is evident throughout the story. Boaz's integrity ensures that the redemption process is handled properly, ultimately leading to God's intended outcome for Ruth and Naomi. This highlights how God works through human laws and choices to accomplish His perfect will, often in ways that require patience and trust.
  • The Kinsman-Redeemer (Goel): This verse is central to understanding the legal and social role of the goel in ancient Israel. It underscores the precise order of obligation and the importance of property and family lineage. This concept foreshadows the ultimate redemption offered by Jesus Christ, our spiritual Kinsman-Redeemer, who bought us back from the slavery of sin (Galatians 3:13).

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew word translated "kinsman" or "near kinsman" here is goel (ื’ึนึผืึตืœ). This term signifies a redeemer, one who has the right and responsibility to restore a lost inheritance, avenge a wrong, or preserve the family line. Boaz acknowledges his status as a goel, but also points out that there is another goel with a higher priority of claim. Understanding the depth of this term is crucial to appreciating the legal and theological implications of the Book of Ruth.

Practical Application

Ruth 3:12 offers several practical insights for today:

  • Patience and Trust: The delay in Ruth and Boaz's union due to the nearer kinsman reminds us that God's timing is often not our own. We are called to exercise patience and trust in His plans, even when there are unexpected obstacles.
  • Integrity in Relationships: Boaz's commitment to legal and moral integrity, even when it might be inconvenient, serves as a powerful example. It teaches us the importance of acting with honesty and respect for others, even in matters of the heart.
  • The Greater Redeemer: The role of the kinsman-redeemer in Ruth's story is a beautiful earthly type of Christ's role as our heavenly Redeemer. Just as Boaz had to pay a price and fulfill legal requirements to redeem Ruth, so Christ paid the ultimate price with His precious blood to redeem us from sin and death, offering us a new life and an eternal inheritance.
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Cross-References

  • Ruth 4:1 (7 votes)

    ยถ 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 (4 votes)

    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 (3 votes)

    ยถ 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.