Ruth 4:9
“And Boaz said unto the elders, and unto all the people, Ye are witnesses this day, that I have bought all that was Elimelech's, and all that was Chilion's and Mahlon's, of the hand of Naomi.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Boaz publicly declares before all that he has redeemed all that belonged to Elimelech's family.
What Does Ruth 4:9 Mean?
Boaz stands before the elders and all the people and declares his purchase openly: this day he has bought all that was Elimelech's, Chilion's, and Mahlon's from the hand of Naomi. He calls the whole assembly to witness. The redemption is now proclaimed publicly, leaving no doubt that Boaz has taken up the full inheritance of the family that had been so devastated by loss.
There is joy and dignity in this public declaration. Boaz is not ashamed to announce that he has redeemed the lost inheritance; he proclaims it for all to hear and remember. What had been emptied by famine and death is being restored by one willing to pay the price. The names of the dead, Elimelech, Chilion, and Mahlon, are spoken again with honor, their inheritance secured. Redemption, when it comes, is worth declaring openly. Boaz's bold proclamation foreshadows the way redemption is meant to be confessed and celebrated, a lost estate bought back, a ruined family restored, before a watching world.