What is the meaning of Ruth 4:8? So the kinsman-redeemer • This unnamed relative was the closest eligible family member who, under God’s law, held first rights to redeem Elimelech’s land and marry Ruth (Leviticus 25:25; Ruth 3:12). • He had just admitted, “I cannot redeem it; it might endanger my own estate” (Ruth 4:6). His withdrawal shows that redemption required both willingness and ability—qualities ultimately found in Boaz, and, typologically, in Christ (Hebrews 7:25). removed his sandal • In ancient Israel a sandal exchange publicly sealed property transactions. Deuteronomy 25:8-10 describes a sandal removal when a man refused levirate duties; here it serves as a voluntary, honorable transfer of rights. • By handing over the sandal, the relative testifies, “I relinquish my claim.” The visual act made the agreement undeniable to the elders gathered at the gate (Ruth 4:1-2). and said to Boaz • Words accompanied the gesture—confirmation before witnesses, similar to Jeremiah purchasing a field “in the presence of the witnesses” (Jeremiah 32:9-12). • Boaz now stands as the undisputed redeemer, reflecting God’s orderly provision for widows and land inheritance (Numbers 27:8-11). “Buy it for yourself.” • The phrase finalizes the transaction: land, obligations, and the privilege of marrying Ruth pass to Boaz (Ruth 4:9-10). • Boaz’s acceptance secures Naomi’s family line and places Ruth, a Moabite, into Israel’s covenant blessings—ultimately into the genealogy of David and Jesus (Matthew 1:5-6). summary Ruth 4:8 records a decisive, witnessed transfer of redemption rights. The closer relative surrenders his claim by removing his sandal, declaring that Boaz may “buy it”—redeem the land and marry Ruth. The moment showcases God’s covenant faithfulness: His law protects the vulnerable, His providence guides events, and His redemptive plan marches toward the birth of the Messiah. |
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