Book of Ruth - Chapter 4 - Verse 8

When the kinsman said unto Boaz, "Buy it for thee," and Boaz drew off his shoe, they were engaging in a symbolic act in accordance with the customs of ancient Israel. In biblical times, the act of removing one's shoe symbolized the transfer of property or rights. In this context, the kinsman was relinquishing his right to redeem the property that belonged to Naomi and Ruth, allowing Boaz to step in as the redeemer. By drawing off his shoe, Boaz was accepting this responsibility and signaling his commitment to not only redeem the land but also to take Ruth as his wife. This act of removing the shoe was a public declaration of the transaction taking place, ensuring that it was legally binding and witnessed by others. Through this gesture, the story of Ruth unfolds as a beautiful example of loyalty, faithfulness, and God's providence in the lives of his people.

In the verse, the kinsman's act of taking off his shoe is symbolic of relinquishing his right to redeem the land that Naomi's family had lost. In ancient Hebrew culture, the act of removing one's shoe was a sign of transferring ownership of property or rights to another person. This gesture is significant as it demonstrates the kinsman's willingness to give up his claim to the land in order to allow Boaz to redeem it. This act also reflects the concept of redemption in the Bible, where a redeemer is someone who pays the price to buy back what was lost or forfeited. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the themes of redemption, sacrifice, and selflessness. It showcases how Boaz, as a type of Christ, becomes the ultimate redeemer who is willing to pay the price to restore what was lost, mirroring the redemption that Jesus offers to humanity through His sacrifice on the cross.