Ruth 3:12
And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I.
Ruth 3:12 (KJV)
Context
Ruth, a Moabite widow, had left her own people to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi and to worship the God of Israel. In Bethlehem, she gathered grain in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy landowner and a relative of Naomi’s husband. At Naomi’s direction, Ruth went to Boaz at the threshing floor and asked him to act as a redeemer for her and for the family line of her dead husband.
Boaz answered her with honesty. He confirmed that he was indeed a near kinsman, a male relative who had the duty to help a family member in trouble. Yet he also told her that another man was a closer relative and therefore had the first right to redeem. Boaz did not hide this fact, even though it might have been to his advantage to do so.
Meaning
The word “near kinsman” translates the Hebrew term go’el, meaning a redeemer. In Israelite law, this relative was responsible for buying back family land that had been sold, or for marrying a widow to raise up an heir for her dead husband. Boaz acknowledged that this duty belonged to him, but he also respected the legal order that gave another man priority.
Boaz’s response shows his integrity. He did not take advantage of Ruth or act hastily. Instead, he chose to follow the proper process, even though it meant waiting and facing the possibility that he might not be the one to redeem her. His honesty protected Ruth and honored the customs of his people.
Biblical connections
The role of the kinsman redeemer points forward to Jesus Christ, who is called our Redeemer. Just as Boaz was willing and able to redeem Ruth, Christ is both willing and able to save those who trust in Him. The book of Ruth also shows God’s providence, guiding events so that Ruth became an ancestor of King David and, later, of Jesus (Ruth 4:17; Matthew 1:5).
Application
Boaz’s example teaches believers to act with honesty and patience. When we face a decision, we should not rush ahead or take shortcuts that ignore what is right. We can trust that God sees our situation and will work out His plan in His own time, even when the way forward is not yet clear.
Ruth’s story also encourages us to wait on God’s timing. She had left her homeland and followed Naomi, and now she had to wait for the nearer kinsman to make his choice. In the same way, believers may need to wait for God to open doors or to bring the right person or opportunity. Waiting is not wasted time; it is part of trusting God’s care.
Reflection
Boaz’s words remind us that God’s plans often unfold through ordinary people who act with integrity. The nearer kinsman declined, and Boaz later married Ruth, becoming her redeemer. This outcome was not by chance; it was part of God’s faithful purpose. When we are faithful in small matters, we participate in what God is doing, even when we cannot see the whole picture.
