Definition: Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the dead be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his place: ye [are] witnesses this day.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ruth 4:10. It’s a really interesting and moving passage about love and devotion! Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God has chosen Ruth to be his wife, and she will be dedicated to helping with the care of the dead – essentially, providing a place for them to rest. Let's look at it piece by piece: "Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon..." : This tells us who Ruth is. She’s a woman from a different background (Moabitess), but God has chosen her. "...have I purchased to be my wife..." : This means God has made this choice and has given her permission to marry him. It's a very significant decision! "...to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance..." : This is the really important part. The verse says she will be dedicated to helping with the care of the dead. "Inheritance" means the land and possessions of someone who has passed away. So, she's being tasked with providing a place for the dead – perhaps a cemetery or burial ground – so that they don’t get forgotten or abandoned. "...that the name of the dead be not cut off from among his brethren..." : This is a crucial part of the verse. "Bredmates" are usually related to the family. “Cut off” means lost or forgotten – this verse says that her work will keep the memory of those who have passed away alive and remembered. "...and from the gate of his place: ye [are] witnesses this day." : This is a formal declaration, saying that God has witnessed and approves of this arrangement. “Gate of his place” refers to a sacred place – likely a cemetery or burial ground. “Ye [are] witnesses this day” means that those who read this verse will be called upon to acknowledge God's favor in this choice. In simpler terms: Ruth, a woman from a different background, is now married to Mahlon and has been given a special responsibility – to care for the dead and ensure their memory lives on. God sees her dedication and approves of this arrangement. The Significance & Meaning: This story emphasizes several important themes: Love and Devotion: Ruth’s willingness to serve God, even in a challenging situation, highlights the power of love and devotion. Family and Legacy: It shows how family and legacy are connected – preserving remembrance is vital. God's Care and Protection: The verse also speaks to God's active involvement in our lives and his desire to protect those who are remembered. Do you want me to explain any of these parts further, or perhaps explore a different aspect of this story? For example, we could talk about the symbolism behind the concept of "the name of the dead"?