Handbook for Bible Students

Ruth

Key-word, “Kinsman” (Redeemer); Key-verse, 4:14. -This is a pastoral idyl. In Boaz, Redeemer (i[Hebrew word]?) of Ruth and her forfeited estate, two conditions must unite: he must be kinsman to have the right; and of a higher branch of the family, not involved in the disaster, to have the power, t o redeem. The race is in ruin. Man is next of kin, but cannot redeem his fellow man, for he is ruined himself. The God-Man, our near kinsman, yet of a higher family, becomes both Redeemer and Bridegroom of the church. [p. 19] HBS 37.3