Ruth 3:12 - Now it is true that I am a near kinsman. However, there is a kinsman nearer than I.
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What does "Ruth 3:12" mean?
This verse from Ruth 3:12 is crucial to understanding the story of Ruth. Let's break it down:
"Now it is true that I am a near kinsman." Boaz acknowledges that he is related to Naomi (Ruth's mother-in-law) and her deceased husband's family. This kinship gives him certain obligations and rights under Israelite law, specifically the right to be a go'el (kinsman-redeemer).
"However, there is a kinsman nearer than I." This is the key point. While Boaz is a relative, there is another male relative who is more closely related to Naomi's deceased husband. According to the laws of the time, this nearer relative has the first right to redeem the family's land and marry Ruth (the widow) to continue the family line.
In essence, Boaz is saying: "Yes, I'm related and I'm willing to help. But there's another guy who has a higher claim than I do. Before I can act, we need to see if he's willing to take on the responsibility."
Why is this important?
Legal obligation: Boaz is a righteous and law-abiding man. He understands the legal precedence and wants to ensure everything is done properly according to the Law of Moses. He won't overstep his bounds, even though he is clearly interested in Ruth.
Character of Boaz: This verse highlights Boaz's integrity, humility, and respect for the law and for others. He doesn't try to force the issue, but instead acts with fairness and consideration.
Sets up the next stage of the story: This sets the stage for Boaz to approach the nearer kinsman and present him with the opportunity to redeem the family property and marry Ruth. The outcome of that encounter will determine whether Boaz can ultimately fulfill his desire to help Ruth and Naomi, and to marry Ruth himself.
Ruth 3:12 - Now it is true that I am a near kinsman. However, there is a kinsman nearer than I.
What does "Ruth 3:12" mean?
This verse from Ruth 3:12 is crucial to understanding the story of Ruth. Let's break it down:
"Now it is true that I am a near kinsman." Boaz acknowledges that he is related to Naomi (Ruth's mother-in-law) and her deceased husband's family. This kinship gives him certain obligations and rights under Israelite law, specifically the right to be a go'el (kinsman-redeemer).
"However, there is a kinsman nearer than I." This is the key point. While Boaz is a relative, there is another male relative who is more closely related to Naomi's deceased husband. According to the laws of the time, this nearer relative has the first right to redeem the family's land and marry Ruth (the widow) to continue the family line.
In essence, Boaz is saying: "Yes, I'm related and I'm willing to help. But there's another guy who has a higher claim than I do. Before I can act, we need to see if he's willing to take on the responsibility."
Why is this important?
Legal obligation: Boaz is a righteous and law-abiding man. He understands the legal precedence and wants to ensure everything is done properly according to the Law of Moses. He won't overstep his bounds, even though he is clearly interested in Ruth.
Character of Boaz: This verse highlights Boaz's integrity, humility, and respect for the law and for others. He doesn't try to force the issue, but instead acts with fairness and consideration.
Sets up the next stage of the story: This sets the stage for Boaz to approach the nearer kinsman and present him with the opportunity to redeem the family property and marry Ruth. The outcome of that encounter will determine whether Boaz can ultimately fulfill his desire to help Ruth and Naomi, and to marry Ruth himself.