4:1-4
True to Naomi’s prediction, Boaz wastes no time in getting matters finalised. So Boaz gets the other kinsman redeemer, along with ten of the elders of the town. He gathered the ten elders so that everything was witnessed and there could be no dispute about the outcome. Boaz starts by saying that Naomi needs to sell a field. The reason for looking for a kinsman redeemer to buy it is in order to keep it within the family, something that was considered to be very important under the Law and within Israel. Initially the other kinsman is keen to buy the field.
4:5-8
Boaz then adds the provision that acquiring the field also involves acquiring Ruth as a wife. Now to our Western ears this may sound rather offensive. However, the reason for this was to keep the family line going. We should also note that there is a very practical approach to marriage in the Bible, something our society could well learn from. At the same time, it is clear from the book of Ruth that Boaz does love Ruth and has genuine affection for her. Romance and practicality go together.
On learning that he would have to take Ruth as a wife, the other kinsman backed out, thinking that it might endanger his own estate. At this point the deal was sealed and Boaz would take the field and Ruth.
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