Ruth 4:13
So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And he went in to her, and the LORD gave her conception, and she bore a son.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The verse subtly highlights that their union wasn't just about two people, but about God's active involvement, stating "the LORD gave her conception" – a tender reminder that life itself is a divine gift, especially poignant after Ruth's earlier losses and Boaz's willingness to embrace her. This divine blessing crowns their story, revealing that even unexpected journeys can lead to God's perfect provision.
After Boaz legally redeemed Naomi's land and married Ruth, fulfilling ancient covenantal obligations and embracing her as his own, the focus shifts to the profound blessing that follows. The narrative culminates in their union, which, under God's sovereign hand, results in the conception and birth of a son, marking a new beginning for the lineage and fulfilling promises.
Ruth was a Moabite, a people forbidden by the Law from entering the assembly of the Lord. Yet, Boaz marries her. How is this possible?
The Law of Moses indeed prohibited intermarriage with Moabites (Deuteronomy 23:3). However, commentators point out this restriction applied to those who remained in their heathen state. Ruth, by leaving her homeland, people, and gods to embrace the God of Israel, was a sincere convert. Her faith and commitment qualified her. This highlights a beautiful truth: God's grace and inclusion extend beyond ethnic lines to all who genuinely turn to Him. Boaz's union with Ruth wasn't a violation of the Law, but a demonstration of God's welcoming heart.
In a world often focused on human effort, this verse points to a different source for fertility and new life.
The text explicitly states, 'the LORD gave her conception.' This isn't just a passive observation; it's an active attribution of blessing. In both ancient and modern times, conception can be a difficult journey. This verse reminds us that ultimately, the ability to bear children is a gift from God. Boaz and Ruth's intimate union was blessed by divine intervention, leading to the birth of Obed. It underscores that even in the most personal and natural aspects of life, God's sovereignty and generosity are at work.
This union, blessed by God, doesn't just result in a child; it sets in motion a lineage that leads to kings and the Savior.
The birth of Obed, Ruth and Boaz's son, is far more than a simple family event. As the commentators note, this child becomes the grandfather of King David and, ultimately, an ancestor of Jesus Christ. Ruth, the foreigner who embraced Israel, finds her place in the royal and redemptive history of God's people. Her story, and the birth of her son, beautifully illustrates how God uses ordinary people and unexpected circumstances to fulfill His grand purposes. It's a testament to His faithfulness in bringing salvation not just to Israel, but to all nations through the 'Seed' to come.
Ruth's marriage to Boaz and the birth of their son Obed are significant because they integrate a foreigner into Israel's covenant people and, remarkably, place her directly into the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ.
c. 11th century BC
Period of the Judges
A tumultuous era in Israel's history characterized by cycles of sin, oppression, deliverance, and peace, with a lack of centralized leadership.
c. 11th century BC— this verse
Ruth and Boaz's Marriage
Boaz, a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, marries Ruth, a Moabite widow, fulfilling his role as kinsman-redeemer. This act challenges strict interpretations of Israelite law regarding foreign marriages.
c. 11th century BC
Birth of Obed
Ruth conceives and bears a son named Obed, fulfilling the hopes of Naomi and establishing a lineage for Bethlehem.
c. 11th century BC
Obed's Descendants
Obed becomes the father of Jesse, who in turn is the father of King David, integrating Ruth into the royal and messianic line.
This passage highlights God's sovereign intervention in conception, echoing how the LORD 'gave her conception' to Ruth, emphasizing His direct role in the continuation of promises.
Genesis 29:31-35Similar to how Leah's conception of Judah was a significant event leading to future kings, Ruth's conception of Obed is crucial for the Davidic line.
Matthew 1:5This New Testament genealogy directly links Ruth and Boaz to Jesus, revealing the profound, long-term significance of this union and the birth of their son, Obed.
Luke 1:5-17The story of Zechariah and Elizabeth parallels Ruth and Boaz in that barrenness was overcome by God's gracious gift of conception, leading to a son who would play a pivotal role in God's plan.
gillRuth 4:13: "So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son."
So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife,.... Without any other rites or ceremonies than what are here expressed; for as yet the rites and ceremonies now in use with the Jews (o), in marriages had not obtained: and when he went in unto her; which is a modest expression of the conjugal duty performed him: the Lord gave her conception; for this is of God, let the ci…
henryRuth 4:13-22: "So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son."
4:13-22 Ruth bore a son, through whom thousands and myriads were born to God; and in being the lineal ancestor of Christ, she was instrumental in the happiness of all that shall be saved by him; even of us Gentiles, as well as those of Jewish descent. She was a witness for God to the Gentile world, that he had not utterly forsaken them, but that in due time th…
The verse subtly highlights that their union wasn't just about two people, but about God's active involvement, stating "the LORD gave her conception" – a tender reminder that life itself is a divine gift, especially poignant after Ruth's earlier losses and Boaz's willingness to embrace her. This divine blessing crowns their story, revealing that even unexpected journeys can lead to God's perfect provision.
After Boaz legally redeemed Naomi's land and married Ruth, fulfilling ancient covenantal obligations and embracing her as his own, the focus shifts to the profound blessing that follows. The narrative culminates in their union, which, under God's sovereign hand, results in the conception and birth of a son, marking a new beginning for the lineage and fulfilling promises.
After Boaz legally redeemed Naomi's land and married Ruth, fulfilling ancient covenantal obligations and embracing her as his own, the focus shifts to the profound blessing that follows. The narrative culminates in their union, which, under God's sovereign hand, results in the conception and birth of a son, marking a new beginning for the lineage and fulfilling promises.
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c. 1000 BC
David's Reign as King
David, a descendant of Ruth and Boaz, unites the tribes of Israel and establishes Jerusalem as his capital, ushering in a golden age.
"So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And he went in to her, and the LORD gave her conception, and she bore a son." — The verse subtly highlights that their union wasn't just about two people, but about God's active involvement, stating "the LORD gave her conception" – a tender reminder that life itself is a divine…
