In Ruth, who is the kinsman redeemer?

• A. Boaz
• B. Elimelech
• C. Obed
• D. Jesse

Answer: (A)

Boaz is the kinsman redeemer in Ruth. The idea behind a kinsman redeemer is that a near relative has the duty to redeem a deceased family member’s property and to provide an heir for the family line by marrying the widow, preserving the lineage. Boaz fits because he is a relative of Elimelech (Naomi’s husband) and is willing to take on that responsibility. He legalizes the redemption at the gate, after ensuring a closer relative relinquishes his right, and he then marries Ruth to produce a line for Elimelech’s family. Their son Obed continues the lineage, eventually leading to David. Elimelech is the husband who died, not the redeemer; Obed is the offspring of Ruth and Boaz; Jesse appears as David’s father in a later generation.