The speech of the women (B) is threefold and gives an interpretation of the events. The speech expounds on Naomi’s restoration to life and fullness.52 Appropriately, it is the women of Bethlehem (cf. 1:19b) who interpret the significance of the boy’s birth. While they praise Yahweh, their focus is on Naomi and the infant boy. He is Yahweh’s provision to Naomi as a kinsman-redeemer (go’el). The meaning of this is given in the following statement: “He will renew [restore] your life and sustain [support] you in your old age” (v. 15). As a go’el, the infant boy—despite his age—through his birth
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