And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.
RUTH 2:20KJVWhat does Ruth 2:20 mean?
Ruth 2:20 shows Naomi blessing Boaz for his kindness, recognizing that God has not stopped showing loyal love to both the living and the dead. Naomi explains to Ruth that Boaz is a close relative, one of their family’s kinsmen who has a special role in helping them.
In this verse, Naomi is speaking to Ruth after Ruth returns from working in Boaz’s field. Naomi is deeply moved by Boaz’s generosity and sees it as evidence of God’s ongoing care for their family, including her late husband and sons. Naomi also points out that Boaz is a “kinsman,” meaning he has a responsibility and potential to help their family in their time of need.
The Hebrew behind Ruth 2:20
- The word “kindness” is חֶסֶד (chesed), which often means steadfast love or loyal kindness. It highlights not just a one-time act, but a deep, ongoing commitment to care and loyalty—something Naomi sees in Boaz’s actions.
- The word for “kinsmen” is גָּאַל (go’el), often translated “redeemer” or “close relative.” In Israelite custom, a go’el had the duty to protect family members in trouble, including redeeming property or marrying a widow to carry on the family line. Naomi’s mention of this word signals hope for Ruth and herself.
Why Ruth 2:20 matters
- Ruth 2:20 clarifies that Naomi sees Boaz’s kindness as part of God’s faithfulness, not just Boaz’s personal generosity.
- The verse introduces the idea of the “kinsman-redeemer,” which becomes central to the rest of the story and explains why Boaz’s relationship to Naomi and Ruth is so important.
- This verse helps the reader understand Naomi’s shift from bitterness to hope, as she recognizes new possibilities for her family’s future through Boaz.