Daily Devotional · Ruth 2:8–12; 4:9–10
The Kinsman-Redeemer
Reflection
The institution of the kinsman-redeemer (go'el) was one of the most compassionate laws in the ancient world. If a man died without heirs, his nearest male relative had the right — and in some cases the obligation — to marry the widow, purchase the land, and continue the family line. He was to be the rescuer of those who had fallen into vulnerability through no fault of their own. Boaz was a wealthy relative of Naomi's deceased husband. When Ruth came to glean in his fields, he noticed her — not just as a gleaner but as a person of remarkable loyalty and character. "I've been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband." His generosity exceeded legal obligation. He told his workers to leave extra grain for her. He invited her to eat with his workers. He ensured she was protected. His response to her situation was not minimum compliance with the law — it was expansive grace. At the threshing floor, Ruth asked him to spread his garment over her — to be her kinsman-redeemer. He was willing. But there was a complication: a closer relative had first right. Boaz went to the city gate, assembled the elders, and offered the closer relative the opportunity. When the closer relative declined (to protect his own inheritance), Boaz declared publicly: "I have also acquired Ruth the Moabite, the widow of Mahlon, to be my wife." Boaz is one of the clearest Old Testament pictures of Christ: the one with the power to redeem, who is also personally willing, who goes to every legal length to secure the redemption of those who are helpless.
Background
The go'el (kinsman-redeemer) concept appears in Leviticus 25 and Deuteronomy 25 as part of Israel's social welfare system. The same Hebrew word (ga'al) is used of God as Israel's redeemer throughout the Psalms and Isaiah ("Your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel"). Boaz's role in Ruth is therefore simultaneously historical narrative and theological portrait.
Truth
Jesus is not a reluctant Redeemer who had to be persuaded to take on your case. Like Boaz, He saw your situation, assessed your need, and was willing — more than willing. He went to every necessary length, including death, to secure your redemption.
Application
Meditate on the scene at the city gate where Boaz publicly declares his intention to redeem Ruth. Now hear Jesus declaring in the presence of heaven: "I have redeemed [your name]." Let that declaration settle in your heart today.