Matthew 1:5 (KJV)

What does Matthew 1:5 mean?

Matthew 1:5 lists part of Jesus’ family line, naming Salmon as the father of Booz (Boaz) by Rachab (Rahab), Booz as the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed as the father of Jesse. This verse is part of a genealogy showing Jesus’ human ancestry through notable Old Testament figures.

Matthew is writing to show Jesus’ legal lineage, tracing it through generations of Israel’s history. By including Rahab and Ruth—both women with unique backgrounds—Matthew highlights that Jesus’ family tree includes people from outside Israel and those with complicated stories. This verse helps set the stage for understanding Jesus’ roots in both Jewish history and God’s broader plan.

The Greek behind Matthew 1:5

• The word γεννάω (gennaō), translated “begat,” means to father or bring forth a child. In genealogies like this, it shows a direct line of descent, not always every generation.
• The names Βόοζ (Booz/Boaz), Ῥαχάβ (Rachab/Rahab), and Ῥούθ (Ruth) are given in their Greek forms. Including these specific names, especially the women, is unusual for ancient genealogies and draws attention to their significance.
• The preposition ἐκ (ek), translated “of,” means “from” or “out of.” It clarifies that Boaz was born from Rahab and Obed from Ruth, emphasizing their mothers’ roles.

Why Matthew 1:5 matters

• Matthew 1:5 highlights that Jesus’ ancestry includes Gentiles and people with unexpected backgrounds, showing God’s grace and the wide reach of His plan.
• By naming Rahab and Ruth, Matthew draws attention to women who played key roles in Israel’s story, breaking from the usual pattern of male-only genealogies.
• This verse connects Jesus to King David’s family, since Jesse is David’s father, setting up the fulfillment of Old Testament promises about the Messiah’s lineage.