We are nearing the end of the Book of Ruth, and it is also the climax. Boaz acts as a kinsman, ensures that the land returns to the family, and marries Ruth. From the marriage of Boaz and Ruth, a son is born, who, as revealed in 4:18-22, is David’s grandfather.
Ruth 4
13 Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. When he came to her, the LORD conceived her, and she bore a son.
14 The women said to Naomi, “Blessed is the LORD, who has not left this day without a kinsman, and his name will be remembered in Israel!”
15 He will be to you as one who restores life and nourishes your old age, for your daughter-in-law, who loves you, has borne him, and she is better to you than seven sons.”
16 And Naomi took the child, and laid him in her bosom, and became his nurse.
New Covenant
Boaz marries Ruth, a picture of the new covenant. The old covenant was a marriage covenant between God and His people, but Israel broke this covenant. In the future, God will put His law (Torah = instruction) in their minds and write it on their hearts. Israel will live by God’s promises, and this new covenant will not be broken (Jer. 31:33; Heb. 8:8-11).
Revived
The women tell Naomi that the son Ruth bears will be to her like one who brought back the soul. Whoever loses their soul loses their life (Gen. 2:7). The return of the soul speaks of death and resurrection. It refers to Israel now in the grave, but will be revived.
Hosea 6
1 Come, and let us return to the LORD! For He has torn us in pieces, and He will heal us; He has struck, and He will bind us up.
2 After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight.
Better than seven sons
Ruth, who bore Obed, is said to be better than seven sons. Seven is the number of fullness. In the list of 4:18-22, Obed is the eighth. Eight is the first of a new series and speaks of a new beginning. The new life that Ruth brings forth is a picture of the resurrected Christ.