Context and Background:
Boaz's declaration to the elders and people is a pivotal moment in the Book of Ruth, found in the Old Testament. This event occurs in Ruth 4:1-12, where Boaz, a prominent and wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, takes decisive action to redeem the land and marry Ruth, a Moabite widow. This declaration is significant as it not only fulfills the role of a kinsman-redeemer but also sets the stage for the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ.

Cultural and Legal Significance:
In ancient Israel, the role of a kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: "goel") was a legal and familial obligation. The kinsman-redeemer was responsible for protecting the interests of needy family members, which included redeeming land that a poor relative had sold and marrying a widow to preserve the family line (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Boaz's actions are in accordance with these laws, demonstrating his righteousness and adherence to God's commandments.

The Declaration:
Boaz's declaration is made at the town gate, a place where legal transactions and public matters were addressed. He gathers ten elders of the city as witnesses, ensuring that the proceedings are conducted with transparency and integrity. Boaz first presents the opportunity to redeem the land belonging to Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, to a closer relative. When this relative declines due to the obligation to marry Ruth, Boaz steps forward to fulfill the role.

In Ruth 4:9-10 , Boaz declares: "You are witnesses today that I am buying from Naomi all that belonged to Elimelech, Chilion, and Mahlon. Moreover, I have acquired Ruth the Moabitess, Mahlon’s widow, as my wife, to raise up the name of the deceased on his inheritance, so that his name will not disappear from among his brothers or from the gate of his home. You are witnesses today."

Theological Implications:
Boaz's declaration is rich with theological significance. It exemplifies the themes of redemption, grace, and providence. Boaz, as a type of Christ, foreshadows the ultimate redemption that Jesus provides. His willingness to marry Ruth, a foreigner, highlights the inclusivity of God's plan of salvation, extending beyond the boundaries of Israel to all nations.

Witnesses and Blessings:
The elders and people present respond to Boaz's declaration with a blessing, recognizing the importance of his actions. In Ruth 4:11-12 , they say: "We are witnesses. May the LORD make the woman entering your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel. May you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. And may your house be like the house of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah, because of the offspring the LORD will give you by this young woman."

This blessing not only acknowledges Boaz's righteousness but also invokes the memory of the matriarchs of Israel, Rachel and Leah, and the continuity of God's covenant promises through the generations.

Legacy:
Boaz's declaration and subsequent marriage to Ruth result in the birth of Obed, the grandfather of King David. This lineage is crucial in the biblical narrative, as it leads to the birth of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Redeemer. Boaz's actions, therefore, have lasting implications, underscoring the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises and the importance of obedience to His laws.