What is the meaning of Ruth 4:6? The kinsman-redeemer replied • We meet the closest relative first mentioned in Ruth 3:12. According to Leviticus 25:25 and Deuteronomy 25:5–10, he holds the legal right and duty to redeem land and raise up offspring for the deceased. • His immediate answer shows he understands the law and the transaction Boaz places before him at the city gate (Ruth 4:1–4). • By speaking up, he demonstrates the public, covenantal nature of redemption—something later fulfilled perfectly and publicly by Christ (John 19:30; Colossians 2:14). I cannot redeem it myself • Though he has the legal prerogative, he confesses inability. The law alone cannot secure redemption when personal limitations stand in the way (Romans 8:3). • His words expose that mere human kinship, while noble, is insufficient to meet every need—foreshadowing our deeper need for a Redeemer greater than any earthly relative (Acts 4:12). Or I would jeopardize my own inheritance • Taking on Elimelech’s land also means marrying Ruth and producing an heir who would legally receive that land (Deuteronomy 25:6). • The nearer kinsman fears diluting or dividing his current estate among additional heirs, much like Esau despised his birthright (Genesis 25:32–34). • His calculation contrasts with Boaz’s selfless love, anticipating Christ “who, though He was rich…became poor for your sake” (2 Corinthians 8:9). Take my right of redemption • Legal rights could be transferred when a nearer relative declined (Ruth 4:7–8). This hand-off, sealed by the sandal exchange, preserved order and transparency (Jeremiah 32:8–12). • Boaz now steps forward as the willing redeemer, just as Jesus stepped in where the law proved powerless (Hebrews 7:19). • The transfer highlights grace: Ruth, a Moabite outsider, will now be welcomed into Israel’s royal line (Matthew 1:5). Because I cannot redeem it • The repetition underscores finality; the nearer kinsman will not act. Human reluctance accentuates God’s readiness (Isaiah 59:16). • Only Boaz will redeem, prefiguring the exclusivity of Christ’s redeeming work (1 Peter 1:18–19). No other kinsman, no other mediator, no alternate plan exists (1 Timothy 2:5). summary Ruth 4:6 records a lawful but unwilling kinsman who abdicates his role to protect his own inheritance. His refusal clears the way for Boaz, the willing redeemer, whose generosity anticipates the ultimate redemption accomplished by Jesus Christ. The text reminds us that self-interest cannot rescue, the law alone cannot save, but God provides a Redeemer who joyfully pays the full price to secure an imperishable inheritance for His people (Ephesians 1:7, 11; 1 Peter 1:4). |
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