The book of Ruth is one of the most beautiful love and redemption stories in Scripture. At its heart, it showcases the ancient concept of the kinsman-redeemer, embodied in Boaz, who redeems Ruth, the Moabite widow. However, beyond the historical narrative, this story points to a greater reality—Jesus Christ, our true Kinsman-Redeemer. Let’s explore how Boaz’s redemption of Ruth (Ruth 4:1-10) foreshadows Christ’s redemption of His people (Galatians 4:4-5, Ephesians 1:7).
Boaz: The Kinsman-Redeemer
In ancient Israel, the role of a kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: go’el) was to restore the family name and inheritance of a deceased relative. This included marrying a widow to provide an heir, purchasing lost family land, and protecting the family’s welfare. Boaz steps into this role for Ruth and Naomi in Ruth 4.
- He was qualified – As a relative of Elimelech, Boaz had the legal right to redeem Ruth and Naomi’s inheritance (Ruth 4:1-6).
- He was willing – Unlike the nearer relative who declined the responsibility, Boaz willingly took Ruth as his wife (Ruth 4:6-9).
- He paid the price – Boaz redeemed the land and married Ruth at a cost, ensuring Naomi’s family name continued (Ruth 4:9-10).
- He brought restoration and blessing – Through Boaz, Ruth found security, Naomi’s bitterness was turned to joy, and their lineage ultimately led to King David—and, ultimately, to Jesus (Ruth 4:13-17).
Jesus: The Ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer
The story of Boaz is a powerful foreshadowing of Jesus, who became our Kinsman-Redeemer in an even greater way.
- He became one of us – Just as Boaz had to be a close relative, Jesus took on human flesh to be our kinsman. Paul writes, “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law” (Galatians 4:4-5).
- He was willing to redeem us – Jesus was not forced to save us; He willingly laid down His life. He said, “No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of My own accord” (John 10:18).
- He paid the price – Our redemption came at a high cost: Jesus’ own blood. Ephesians 1:7 says, “In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.”
- He restores and blesses – Just as Boaz’s redemption led to new life for Ruth and Naomi, Jesus’ redemption gives us eternal life, adoption into God’s family, and a restored relationship with Him (John 1:12, Romans 8:15-17).
The Call to Accept Our Redemption
Ruth had to step out in faith and receive Boaz’s redemption. In the same way, we must accept Christ’s offer of salvation. He has already done the work; we simply need to trust in Him.
The story of Ruth and Boaz is not just a historical romance—it is a divine picture of God’s relentless love. Jesus is our Boaz, our Redeemer, the One who rescues, restores, and secures us for eternity. May we, like Ruth, find refuge under His wings (Ruth 2:12) and rejoice in the redemption He has provided.
Have you accepted Jesus as your Kinsman-Redeemer? If not, today is the perfect time to come under His covering and experience His love and salvation.
