Ruth 2:20
And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.
Ruth 2:20 · King James Version
Meaning
Naomi's words to her daughter-in-law, Ruth, convey a message of gratitude and recognition of the kindness shown by a man who has proven to be a loyal and caring individual. By acknowledging the man's actions as being blessed by the LORD, Naomi emphasizes the importance of kindness and compassion in human relationships. She reflects on the man's unwavering support towards both the living and the deceased, highlighting the significance of his actions within the community. Naomi also emphasizes the close relationship that exists between the man and their family, pointing out his position as a near kinsman. This highlights the notion of kinship and familial ties as a central theme in the narrative, underscoring the importance of loyalty and support among relatives. Overall, Naomi's words serve to underscore the values of kindness, loyalty, and kinship as integral aspects of human relationships.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the Book of Ruth, Naomi acknowledges the kindness of a man named Boaz, who has shown compassion not only to her and her daughter-in-law Ruth but also to the deceased members of their family. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights the importance of kindness and loyalty in relationships, even towards those who have passed away. Naomi's recognition of Boaz's actions as being supported by the LORD shows the belief in God's providence and guidance in everyday interactions. The mention of Boaz being a near kinsman alludes to the concept of family responsibility and care for one's relatives. Word studies on phrases like "kindness to the living and to the dead" can reveal the depth of Boaz's compassion and the extent to which his actions are in alignment with God's will. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the value of kindness, loyalty, and familial connections in the context of the ancient Israelite society.
Ruth 2:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Naomi said unto her daughter-in-law, Blessed be he of Jehovah, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is nigh of kin unto us, one of our near kinsmen.
World English Bible
Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “Blessed be he of Yahweh, who has not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead.” Naomi said to her, “The man is a close relative to us, one of our near kinsmen.”
Douay-Rheims
And Noemi answered her: Blessed be he of the Lord: because the same kindness which he shewed to the living, he hath kept also to the dead. And again she said: The man is our kinsman.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Naomi said vnto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the Lord: for he ceaseth not to doe good to the liuing and to the dead. Againe Naomi saide vnto her, The man is neere vnto vs, and of our affinitie.