“And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. The LORD make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem.”
Context:The book of Ruth is a beautiful story of redemption and loyalty set during the time of the judges in Israel. Ruth, a Moabite woman, showed great loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi, and through a series of events, she married Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer who protected their family’s inheritance.
Gathering Witnesses:In this verse, the people at the gate, which served as the public gathering place and the seat of authority in ancient times, bear witness to the redemption and marriage of Ruth to Boaz. Their presence ensures that the transaction is witnessed and validated by the community, making it legally binding.
Blessing upon Ruth:The witnesses pronounce a blessing upon Ruth, acknowledging her significance and praying for her. They desire that the Lord make her like Rachel and Leah, the wives of Jacob, who were matriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel. This blessing signifies the hope that Ruth would become a prominent and fruitful figure within the nation of Israel.
Building the House of Israel:The witnesses specifically mention Rachel and Leah as the ones who “did build the house of Israel.” This phrase refers to their role in giving birth to the twelve sons who became the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. By mentioning them, the witnesses acknowledge the important role of women in the continuation and growth of the Israelite nation.
Worthiness and Fame:The witnesses also pray that Boaz would “do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem.” This indicates their desire for Boaz to be a man of honor and integrity, carrying out his responsibilities with excellence. They also express the hope that he would be renowned in Bethlehem, his hometown, suggesting that his reputation would bring honour and distinction to the city.
Overall, Ruth 4:11 demonstrates the community’s acknowledgment of Ruth’s marriage to Boaz and their prayerful blessing upon her. It highlights the significance of witnesses in confirming important transactions and the recognition of the important role of women in the nation’s history. Additionally, it emphasises the desire for Boaz to conduct himself honourably and become renowned in his community.
