Old Testament
Ruth 4:10
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I have also taken Ruth the Moabitess, Mahlon's widow, as my wife, so that the dead man's name will be carried on through his inheritance and will not disappear from among his family or from this town. You are all witnesses today."
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Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the dead be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his place: ye are witnesses this day.
What Ruth 4:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Boaz declares that he has taken Ruth, the widow of Mahlon, as his wife. This act is significant because it fulfills the duty of a kinsman-redeemer, ensuring that Mahlon's family line continues. By marrying Ruth, Boaz aims to preserve Mahlon's name and inheritance, preventing it from being lost. He emphasizes the importance of community witness, indicating that the townspeople are present to affirm this commitment. This act not only secures Ruth's future but also restores her dignity and place within the community. Boaz's actions reflect the values of loyalty, responsibility, and the importance of family heritage in ancient Israelite culture. His willingness to marry Ruth demonstrates a deep sense of duty and love, highlighting the redemptive nature of relationships and the significance of honoring family ties.
How to apply Ruth 4:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to honor our commitments and responsibilities to family and community. It reminds us of the importance of supporting one another, especially in times of need, and the value of preserving legacies and relationships through our actions.
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 4:10
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 does Ruth 4:10 mean?
Ruth 4:10 means that Boaz has married Ruth, the widow of Mahlon, to ensure that Mahlon's family line continues. This act fulfills the role of a kinsman-redeemer, preserving Mahlon's name and inheritance within the community.
What is the significance of Boaz marrying Ruth in Ruth 4:10?
Boaz marrying Ruth is significant because it highlights the importance of family heritage and community responsibility. By marrying her, Boaz not only secures Ruth's future but also honors Mahlon's legacy, demonstrating loyalty and commitment.
What does the term 'kinsman-redeemer' refer to in Ruth 4:10?
The term 'kinsman-redeemer' refers to a relative who has the responsibility to marry a widow to preserve the deceased's family line. In Ruth 4:10, Boaz acts as this redeemer for Ruth, ensuring Mahlon's name and inheritance are maintained.
What is the role of witnesses in Ruth 4:10?
The witnesses in Ruth 4:10 serve to affirm Boaz's commitment to marry Ruth and fulfill his duty as a kinsman-redeemer. Their presence emphasizes the communal aspect of this commitment, ensuring that the marriage and its implications are recognized by the community.
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