What is a kinsman redeemer?

Answer  
  

The kinsman\-redeemer is a male relative who, according to various laws of the Pentateuch, had the privilege or responsibility to act on behalf of a relative who was in trouble, danger, or need. The Hebrew term (*go el*) for kinsman\-redeemer designates one who delivers or rescues (Genesis 48:16; Exodus 6:6\) or redeems property or person (Leviticus 27:9–25, 25:47–55\). The kinsman who redeems or vindicates a relative is illustrated most clearly in the [book of Ruth](book-of-Ruth.html), where the kinsman\-redeemer is Boaz.   
  

The story of Ruth and Boaz begins when Ruth and her mother\-in\-law, Naomi, return to Bethlehem from Moab where they had been living. Naomi’s husband and both sons, one the husband of Ruth, had died, leaving the women penniless and without a male protector. Upon arriving in Bethlehem, Naomi sends Ruth to glean in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi to whom they, through a series of divinely appointed circumstances, appeal as their *go el*. Boaz acquiesces, willingly takes Ruth as his wife, and together they bear a son named Obed who became the grandfather of David, the forefather of Jesus.  
  

Yahweh is Israel’s Redeemer, the one who promises to defend and vindicate them. He is both Father and Deliverer (Exodus 20:2\). There are numerous Old Testament appeals to God as rescuer of the weak and needy (Psalm 82:4; Daniel 6:27; Jeremiah 20:13\) and preserver of the sheep of Israel (Ezekiel 34:10–12, 22\).  
  

In the New Testament, Christ is often regarded as an example of a kinsman\-redeemer because, as our brother (Hebrews 2:11\), He also redeems us because of our great need, one that only He can satisfy. In Ruth 3:9, we see a beautiful and poignant picture of the needy supplicant, unable to rescue herself, requesting of the kinsman\-redeemer that he cover her with his protection, redeem her, and make her his wife. In the same way, the Lord Jesus Christ bought us for Himself, out of the curse, out of our destitution; made us His own beloved bride; and blessed us for all generations. He is the true kinsman\-redeemer of all who call on Him in faith.  
  

