Ruth 4:6-8

Amplified Bible

⁶The closest relative (redeemer) said, “I cannot redeem it for myself, because [by marrying a Moabitess] I would ^[a]jeopardize my own inheritance. Take my right of redemption (purchase) yourself, because I cannot redeem it.”^(A)

⁷Now formerly in Israel this was the custom concerning redeeming and exchanging property. To confirm a transaction, a man pulled off his sandal and gave it to the other. This was the way of confirming and attesting in Israel. ⁸So, when the closest relative (redeemer) said to Boaz, “Buy it for yourself,” he pulled off his sandal [and gave it to Boaz to confirm the agreement].

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Footnotes

Ruth 4:6 Lit damage. The excuse given was probably made up on the spot by this relative-redeemer to avoid the obligation of marrying Ruth and raising a son in her deceased husband’s name (see note 2:20). He may very well not have wanted to raise a son under such circumstances, or to be married to a Moabite woman.