Have you ever wanted something badly but were completely unsure how it would turn out? Achieving the goal feels impossible. For Ruth, certainly, her situation was complicated.

At Naomi’s request, Ruth had approached Boaz, asking him to be her redeemer. But another complication will come between them and the redemptive future for which they longed. The scene opens with Boaz responding to Ruth’s overture by uttering a blessing from the Lord and calling her “daughter” (v. 10). He understood her intent to be pure, and he too acted virtuously. He praised her acts of hesed, proclaiming that her gesture of hesed toward him was even greater than the hesed she had shown toward Naomi. Not only had she sacrificed her home to follow her mother-in-law, she also laid aside any preference for a younger man to pursue a marriage with Boaz.

Boaz assured Ruth that he would do as she asked, and he complimented her character (v. 11). He explained that the whole town knew of her reputation. Her uprightness was so astounding that people were talking. The reader should remember that the author said something similar about Boaz in 2:1.

Boaz acknowledged his role and responsibility as guardian-redeemer. But he then uttered an unexpected twist—a new complication (v. 12). According to the clan structure, another nearer relative (guardian) should have first rights of refusal when it came to both the land and Ruth. Boaz acted with full integrity. He would present the opportunity to the nearer guardian before making any move of his own.

Boaz cared for Ruth by reassuring her of his intent, protecting her reputation, and providing more food. The next morning, Boaz went straight to town. He took the initiative in doing the right thing.

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