The Verse
King James Version (KJV): “Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the dead be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his place: ye are witnesses this day.”
New International Version (NIV): “I have also acquired Ruth the Moabite, Mahlon’s widow, as my wife, in order to maintain the dead man’s name on his inheritance, so that his name will not disappear from among his family or from his hometown. Today you are witnesses!”
English Standard Version (ESV): “Also Ruth the Moabite, the widow of Mahlon, I have bought to be my wife, to perpetuate the name of the dead in his inheritance, that the name of the dead may not be cut off from among his brothers and from the gate of his native place. You are witnesses this day.”
Introduction
In the book of Ruth, we find a beautiful story of redemption, faith, and love. It’s a tale that not only inspires us but also sets the groundwork for the lineage of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Ruth 4:10 is a pivotal verse in this narrative where Boaz, a man of noble character, steps forward to redeem Ruth, a Moabite widow. By doing so, he ensures that the name of her deceased husband, Mahlon, is not forgotten. This verse speaks volumes about God’s provisions and the significance of maintaining legacy and family honor.
Historical Context
The book of Ruth is positioned in the period of the Judges, a time of great moral and spiritual decline in Israel. Ruth, a Moabite woman, chooses to follow her mother-in-law Naomi back to Bethlehem after the death of her husband. Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband, becomes the kinsman redeemer as he marries Ruth to preserve the family line.
Key Word Analysis
Redeem: The Hebrew word for redeem is ‘gaal’ which means to recover, ransom, or act as a kinsman. It’s a duty performed out of love and commitment to family.
Moabitess: The term signifies Ruth’s foreign origin. Despite being a foreigner, Ruth chooses to align herself with God’s people.
Inheritance: The Hebrew word ‘nachalah’ implies a property or possession passed on within a family. It’s also used metaphorically to mean a spiritual inheritance.
Spiritual Insight
This verse reveals God’s heart for redemption and His profound love for all people, regardless of their lineage or past. It reflects the spirit of God’s law and His deep concern for the welfare and future of families. It also foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, our Kinsman Redeemer.
Life Application
Just like Boaz, we are called to act in love, integrity, and faithfulness. We are encouraged to honor our responsibilities and to care for those less fortunate. This verse also reminds us that God has a divine plan for each of us, and He can use anyone, including those who feel unqualified and foreign, to fulfill His purposes.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“My child, just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, I have redeemed you. You might feel like a foreigner, but in my kingdom, you have a place. No lineage, past, or circumstance can separate you from my love. You are part of my family, and your name will never be forgotten.”
Prayer Prompt
Lord, thank you for your redemption and love. Help us to honor our responsibilities and to care for those around us. May we always remember that we are part of your divine plan. In Jesus name, Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Why did Boaz redeem Ruth?
Ans: Boaz redeemed Ruth out of his love for her and his commitment to his family lineage. His actions were in line with the law of Moses regarding inheritance and marriage.
Ques: How does the story of Ruth relate to Jesus?
Ans: The story of Ruth foreshadows Jesus’ redeeming work. Just as Boaz acted as a kinsman redeemer, Jesus is our ultimate Redeemer. Ruth’s lineage also leads to David, and eventually to Jesus.
Ques: Why is the book of Ruth significant?
Ans: The book of Ruth is significant as it portrays God’s redemptive love, his providential care, and his inclusion of all people in His plan.
Ques: What can we learn from Ruth 4:10?
Ans: Ruth 4:10 teaches us about redemption, faithfulness, and God’s divine plan. It encourages us to honor our responsibilities and to care for others.
Related Verses
Ruth 1:16: Ruth’s commitment to Naomi and her God sets the stage for her redemption.
Leviticus 25:25: This verse provides the law of redemption that Boaz fulfills.
Matthew 1:5: Ruth is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, connecting her story to the lineage of Christ.
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