Ruth 4:2 - He took ten men of the elders of the city, and said, “Sit down here,” and they sat down.

Generated Verse: Ruth 4:2

What does "Ruth 4:2" mean?


This verse from Ruth 4:2 is part of a legal and public process in the city of Bethlehem. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"He took ten men of the elders of the city...": "He" refers to Boaz. The "elders of the city" were respected, prominent men who held authority and were involved in legal and social matters within the community. They served as witnesses and judges in important transactions. Ten was considered a significant number, likely meeting the requirement for a quorum for a legal proceeding.

"...and said, “Sit down here,” and they sat down.": Boaz needed these elders to be witnesses and participants in a formal transaction. He instructed them to sit, indicating that this was going to be a structured and deliberate process. Their compliance ("they sat down") signified their willingness to witness and validate the proceedings.

In summary, this verse describes Boaz gathering a group of respected community leaders to witness and legitimize an important business transaction, which is central to the story of Ruth. He is establishing a formal and legally binding process to ensure that his actions are witnessed and recognized by the community. This is vital because the transaction involves the redemption of Naomi's land and, more importantly, the right to marry Ruth and continue the family line of her deceased husband.

This act highlights Boaz's commitment to acting with integrity and within the established social and legal norms of his time. It also shows the importance of community involvement and witness in significant life events.

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