Old Testament
Ruth 4:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Boaz went up to the town gate and sat down there. Sure enough, the closer relative he had mentioned came walking by. Boaz called out, "Friend, come sit down here!" So the man came over and sat down.
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Then went Boaz up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by; unto whom he said, Ho, such a one! turn aside, sit down here. And he turned aside, and sat down.
What Ruth 4:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Boaz takes a proactive step to resolve the matter of redeeming Ruth by going to the town gate, a public place where legal transactions and important discussions occur. The gate symbolizes a place of authority and community decision-making. When Boaz sees the closer relative, he calls him over to discuss the situation regarding Ruth and her deceased husband’s land. This moment is significant as it sets the stage for Boaz to fulfill his role as a redeemer, demonstrating his commitment to family and community responsibilities. The interaction highlights the importance of relationships and the legal customs of the time, as Boaz seeks to ensure that Ruth is cared for according to the laws of kinship. This verse emphasizes the themes of loyalty, responsibility, and the unfolding of God's providence in the lives of His people.
How to apply Ruth 4:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to take initiative in our responsibilities towards others, especially in matters of support and care. Just as Boaz approached the relative, we should be willing to engage in difficult conversations and act in ways that uphold our commitments to family and community.
Curated for this public verse page. Ruth Summary
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Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: At the City Gate (Ruth 4:1–12)
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Ruth
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Ruth 4:1
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Ruth
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What is the significance of the town gate in Ruth 4:1?
The town gate in Ruth 4:1 serves as a public space for legal transactions and community discussions. It symbolizes authority and the collective decision-making process of the community. Boaz's choice to go there highlights the importance of transparency and communal involvement in matters of family and redemption.
Who is the 'kinsman' mentioned in Ruth 4:1?
The 'kinsman' referred to in Ruth 4:1 is a closer relative of Ruth's deceased husband, who has the first right to redeem the family property and marry Ruth. Boaz approaches him to discuss these responsibilities, emphasizing the customs of kinship and the importance of fulfilling family obligations.
What does Boaz's action in Ruth 4:1 teach us about responsibility?
Boaz's proactive approach in Ruth 4:1 teaches us the importance of taking initiative in our responsibilities towards others. He does not wait for the kinsman to come to him; instead, he actively seeks him out to ensure that Ruth is cared for. This encourages us to engage in difficult conversations and uphold our commitments to family and community.
How does Ruth 4:1 relate to the theme of redemption?
Ruth 4:1 is pivotal in the theme of redemption as it sets the stage for Boaz to fulfill his role as a redeemer. By approaching the kinsman at the town gate, Boaz initiates the legal process necessary to redeem Ruth and her late husband's land, showcasing the importance of loyalty and the fulfillment of familial duties.
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