"And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the Lord, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen."
Context:The Book of Ruth tells the story of a Moabite woman named Ruth who showed great loyalty and devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of their husbands. In this verse, Naomi expresses her gratitude for a man who has shown kindness to both the living and the dead, referring to Boaz, who later becomes a significant figure in Ruth’s life.
God’s Blessings:Naomi acknowledges that Boaz’s kindness is a result of God’s blessings. She recognises that Boaz has been an instrument of God’s provision and grace in their lives. This verse serves as a reminder that all good things come from the Lord and that He is the ultimate source of blessings.
Kindness to the Living and the Dead:Naomi praises Boaz for his benevolence towards both the living and the dead. His acts of kindness extend not only to Ruth and Naomi but also to the memory and legacy of their deceased loved ones. This demonstrates Boaz’s character and compassion, as well as his commitment to caring for others.
The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer:Naomi reveals that Boaz is a close relative and one of their “next kinsmen.” In the ancient Israelite culture, a kinsman-redeemer was a male relative who had the responsibility to protect the family’s interests, including providing for widows and ensuring the continuation of the family lineage. This reference suggests the potential for Boaz to fulfil this role in Ruth and Naomi’s lives.
Foreshadowing of Redemption:The mention of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer foreshadows the redemption story that unfolds in the subsequent chapters of the Book of Ruth. Boaz becomes a symbol of God’s redemption and provision for Ruth and Naomi, ultimately leading to their restoration and blessing.
Lessons for us:Ruth 2:20 teaches us several important lessons. First, it reminds us to acknowledge God as the ultimate source of blessings in our lives. Second, it highlights the significance of kindness and compassion towards others, both the living and the memory of the deceased. Third, it points to the redemptive work of God, illustrating how He can use individuals to bring about restoration and blessing in the lives of those who trust in Him.
Overall, Ruth 2:20 demonstrates the gratitude of Naomi for Boaz’s kindness and sets the stage for the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan in the lives of Ruth and Naomi.
