Ruth 4:17 (KJV)

What does Ruth 4:17 mean?

Ruth 4:17 describes how Naomi’s neighbors named the baby born to Ruth and Boaz, saying, “There is a son born to Naomi,” and they called him Obed. The verse notes that Obed became the father of Jesse, who was the father of David, connecting Naomi’s family to the future king of Israel.

In this scene, the women of the community are speaking, recognizing Naomi’s restored family line after her earlier losses. The verse emphasizes the significance of Obed’s birth not just for Naomi, but for all of Israel, since he is the grandfather of King David. This moment marks the fulfillment of hope and restoration for Naomi and sets up the lineage leading to David.

The Hebrew behind Ruth 4:17

• The word for “gave” is קָרָא (qara’), which means “to call” or “to name.” Here, it highlights that the community, not just the parents, played a role in naming the child, showing a sense of shared joy and involvement.
• The name עוֹבֵד (Obed) means “servant” or “one who serves.” This name may hint at the child’s future role in serving his family and, through his descendants, the nation.
• The phrase “son born” uses בֵּן (ben) for “son” and יָלַד (yalad) for “born.” The focus is on the birth as a gift and restoration to Naomi, even though Ruth is the biological mother.

Why Ruth 4:17 matters

• Ruth 4:17 clarifies that Obed is counted as Naomi’s family, restoring her place and hope after her earlier losses, even though Ruth is his mother.
• The verse draws a direct line from Ruth and Boaz’s story to King David, showing how this family’s faithfulness shaped Israel’s future.
• This verse highlights the role of the community in celebrating and affirming God’s work in individual lives, as the neighbors are the ones who name the child and declare his significance.