Ruth 4:6

Ruth 4:6 records a pivotal moment in the narrative, where a closer relative than Boaz declines the opportunity to fulfill the role of kinsman-redeemer for Naomi and Ruth. This refusal, driven by personal financial considerations, sets the stage for Boaz to step forward and secure the lineage and future of Elimelech's family.

Context

In ancient Israel, the concept of the "kinsman-redeemer" (Hebrew: go'el) was a vital social and legal institution. A go'el was typically the nearest male relative responsible for protecting the family's interests, including buying back land lost due to poverty (Leviticus 25:25) or avenging spilled blood. In this specific case, the redemption involved not only Naomi's land but also marrying Ruth, the widow of Mahlon, to raise up an heir for the deceased husband, a practice known as levirate marriage (Deuteronomy 25:5-6). Boaz had already presented the full scope of this obligation to the kinsman in Ruth 4:5, emphasizing the need to "raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance."

Key Themes

• The Law of Redemption: This verse highlights the practical application of the Mosaic Law concerning family and property. The kinsman's refusal demonstrates the legal intricacies and personal cost associated with fulfilling such a duty.
• Self-Interest vs. Sacrificial Love: The unnamed kinsman prioritizes his own "inheritance" over the needs of Naomi and Ruth and the perpetuation of his relative's name. His fear of "marring" his own estate reveals a concern for personal gain rather than communal or familial obligation. This stands in stark contrast to Boaz's later willingness to selflessly fulfill the role.
• Divine Providence: This seemingly negative decision by the kinsman is, in fact, a crucial turning point orchestrated by God's providence. His refusal clears the way for Boaz, who would ultimately become the ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.

Linguistic Insights

• "Redeem" (Hebrew: גאל - ga'al): This powerful word signifies not just buying back, but also delivering, protecting, and restoring. It carries deep theological weight throughout the Bible, pointing to God's ultimate act of redemption for His people. The kinsman's inability to "redeem" here sets up the greater redemption by Boaz.
• "Mar" (Hebrew: שחת - shachath): This term means to corrupt, spoil, ruin, or destroy. The kinsman feared that taking on the additional responsibility of Naomi's land and Ruth's potential children would diminish or complicate his own assets, thereby "marring" his existing inheritance. This reveals his focus on material preservation over familial obligation.

Practical Application

Ruth 4:6 offers several enduring lessons for believers today:

• The Cost of Discipleship: Just as the kinsman weighed the cost of redemption, followers of Christ are called to consider the cost of following Him (Luke 14:27). True commitment often involves setting aside personal comfort or gain for a greater purpose.
• God's Sovereign Plan: Even when individuals act out of self-interest, God can sovereignly use their decisions to advance His perfect plan. The kinsman's refusal was not a setback, but a necessary step for Boaz to fulfill his role in the lineage of the Messiah.
• Christ as Our Redeemer: This narrative beautifully foreshadows the ultimate spiritual redemption offered through Jesus Christ. Unlike the kinsman who "cannot redeem," Jesus willingly paid the ultimate price to redeem humanity from sin and death, offering a far greater inheritance than any earthly estate.