The Hebrew goel was a family redeemer with responsibilities that could include redeeming family land, assisting relatives who had fallen into servitude, and defending family interests. Ruth combines family redemption with the continuation of a deceased man's household line.
Customs & Culture
Kinsman-Redeemer
An Israelite kinsman-redeemer could act to preserve family property, protect family interests, and redeem what had been lost. The institution is central to the story of Ruth and Boaz.
Primary Scripture
Historical and Cultural Background
Biblical Examples
In Ruth 3-4, Boaz is identified as a potential redeemer. At the city gate he negotiates with a nearer relative before acquiring the right to redeem the property and marry Ruth.
Biblical Significance
The legal background explains why Boaz cannot simply marry Ruth immediately. His actions are presented as faithful observance of family obligations carried out publicly and lawfully.
Related Images
Common Misconceptions
The kinsman-redeemer institution and levirate marriage are related in Ruth but are not identical legal institutions and should not be collapsed into one rule.
Historical Setting and Evidence
Culture: Israelite
Period: Patriarchal Period, Exodus and Wilderness, Conquest and Judges, United Monarchy, Divided Monarchy, Kingdom of Judah
Evidence: Well Attested
Interpretive Importance: Essential
The relevant redemption laws are directly preserved in Leviticus and Deuteronomy and are illustrated narratively in Ruth.
Scripture References
Related Information
Sources
Leviticus 25:25-55; Deuteronomy 25:5-10; Ruth 2-4.