Ruth 4:21 – “Salmon the father of Boaz, Boaz the father of Obed,”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Ruth 4:21 continues the genealogy that links the story of Ruth and Boaz to the broader narrative of Israel’s history. This verse specifically names Salmon as the father of Boaz and Boaz as the father of Obed. Boaz, who played a central role in redeeming Ruth and Naomi’s family, becomes a key figure in this lineage. His marriage to Ruth leads to the birth of Obed, who will be the grandfather of King David. This verse not only connects Ruth’s personal story to the larger story of God’s people but also highlights how God works through families to accomplish His redemptive plan.
Historical Context
The genealogy presented in Ruth 4 traces the family line from Perez, a descendant of Judah, down to King David. Salmon, Boaz’s father, is traditionally associated with Rahab, the woman from Jericho who helped Israelite spies during the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 2). Boaz, Salmon’s son, emerges as a man of integrity and faith, playing a pivotal role as Ruth’s kinsman-redeemer. The birth of Obed, Boaz and Ruth’s son, marks the continuation of a family line that would eventually lead to David, Israel’s greatest king. This lineage underscores the importance of God’s covenant with Israel and His promise to bring forth a Savior.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the theme of redemption that runs throughout the book of Ruth and the entire Bible. Boaz’s willingness to marry Ruth and redeem Naomi’s family directly impacts the future of Israel. It demonstrates that God can use ordinary people and seemingly small acts of faithfulness to accomplish His great purposes. This genealogy is not just a list of names; it is a testimony to God’s faithfulness across generations. It shows that God’s work often involves weaving together the lives of diverse individuals to fulfill His promises.
Literary Analysis
Ruth 4:21 serves as a key link in the genealogical chain that culminates in the birth of King David and, eventually, Jesus Christ. The verse is structured simply, listing each generation in a straightforward manner, emphasizing continuity and connection. By including Boaz and Obed, the genealogy directly ties the personal story of Ruth and Boaz to the larger narrative of Israel’s history and God’s unfolding plan. The mention of Boaz reminds readers of the redemptive acts that have taken place, while Obed’s introduction points forward to the future impact of this family.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 1:5-6 – Includes Salmon, Boaz, and Obed in the genealogy of Jesus, showing how their lives are part of the lineage that leads to the Messiah.
- Joshua 2:1 – Describes Rahab’s role in helping the Israelite spies, linking her to Salmon and showing God’s grace in including outsiders in His plan.
- 1 Chronicles 2:11-12 – Repeats this genealogy, affirming the connection between Boaz, Obed, and the line of David.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Ruth 4:21 serves as a reminder that God’s plans often involve faithful actions that seem small at the moment but have significant long-term impacts. Boaz’s decision to redeem Ruth and Naomi’s family did not just change their immediate circumstances—it set the stage for the birth of King David and, eventually, Jesus. This verse encourages believers to live faithfully, trusting that God can use their everyday decisions in ways that they may not fully understand. It’s a call to recognize the value of our roles in God’s bigger story.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving commitment to His people. God didn’t just work through the most prominent figures in history; He worked through everyday people like Boaz and Ruth. His love is seen in His care for their lives and in His use of their faithfulness to accomplish His purposes. God’s attention to this family line shows that His love is personal, intentional, and redemptive. He lovingly preserves and uses generations to fulfill His promises, demonstrating His faithfulness across time.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This genealogy directly connects to Jesus Christ, showing that God’s plan to redeem humanity was in motion long before Jesus was born. Boaz’s role as a kinsman-redeemer foreshadows Christ’s ultimate act of redemption. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth and restored Naomi’s family line, Jesus redeems us, offering hope and restoration that extends far beyond our immediate circumstances (Ephesians 1:7). The connection of these names to Jesus’ lineage underscores the continuity of God’s redemptive work and the fulfillment of His promise to send a Savior.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does seeing the faithfulness of Boaz and the impact of his actions encourage you in your own walk with God?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of ordinary, faithful decisions in God’s larger plan?
- How does understanding the connection between Ruth’s story and the lineage of Jesus deepen your appreciation of God’s long-term faithfulness and redemptive plan?