Meaning
To redeem means to recover, rescue, or buy back a person or possession according to an established right or payment.
Biblical Usage
In the Old Testament, redemption could involve recovering family property or a family member through the action of a qualified relative. The Law established provisions for the redemption of land and persons who had entered into conditions of poverty or servitude.
Ruth presents this family and property practice through Boaz, who acted as a near kinsman and redeemed the property associated with Elimelech’s family. Scripture also uses redemption more broadly for God’s deliverance of His people from bondage, trouble, and death.
Key References
- Leviticus 25:25-34
- Leviticus 25:47-55
- Ruth 3:9-13
- Ruth 4:1-10
- Exodus 6:6
- Exodus 15:13
- Psalm 34:22
- Psalm 49:15
- Psalm 130:7-8
- Isaiah 43:1
- Luke 1:68
- Galatians 3:13
- Titus 2:14
- 1 Peter 1:18-19
Related Terms
- Redeemer
- Redemption
- Purchase
- Kinsman
- Inheritance