Without a kinsman; which is understood, either, first, Of the son new born. Or rather, secondly, Of Boaz; for the name of goel, which is translated kinsman or redeemer, is never, that I know of, given to the child born, but always to the person begetting him of his brother's or near kinsman's wife. And whereas it is objected, that there was no cause for this congratulation at this time in reference to Boaz, because that was done divers months before this time; it may be replied, that the memory of that generous action was revived upon this occasion, and therefore is fitly mentioned as the foundation of this child's birth; and this happy effect justly leads them to the cause and original of it, which was this, that Boaz had shown himself to be a kinsman or not only in name and title, as the other kinsman was, Ruth 4:6, but in truth and reality. The words may be rendered, which hath not made or suffered thy kinsman to fail to thee, i.e. to neglect or refuse the performance of his duty to thee and thine, as the other kinsman did. That his name may be famous in Israel, Heb. and his name shall be famous in Israel, for this noble and worthy action, wherein he gave so great an example of piety, charity, humility, and self-denial.

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