11. Fear not. Boaz is not in a position to give Ruth an immediate and definite answer, for the reason he forthwith proceeds to explain ( 12, 13). In other words, there must inevitably be some delay. Boaz cannot accede to her request at the moment, but she is not to think that in so doing he is evading the issue. So he bids her, “Fear not.” He has already expressed his intentions in the matter, and has done so sincerely. But to avoid gossip and perhaps criticism, Boaz considers that the only proper course is to wait until the “kinsman nearer than I” shall first be given the opportunity of meeting the obligation that logically devolves upon him. Should Boaz do otherwise, the nearer kinsman would probably consider himself grievously wronged and might even take legal action against Boaz. The only safe and proper course was to follow the procedure approved by law and custom.
I will do. In spite of postponing the matter, Boaz gives Ruth a categorical promise—a promise limited only by the possible choice of the other kinsman to exercise his prerogatives with respect to Ruth.
All the city. Though a widow and a foreigner who has resided in Bethlehem but a few weeks, Ruth is already known and respected by all. It would seem that Elimelech had been an influential and respected citizen of Bethlehem, and that the townsfolk naturally interested themselves in the affairs and fortunes of his family. Furthermore, the arrival of a foreigner would attract attention, and everyone would observe her carefully during those first few weeks. Ruth had stood the test. She was recognized as a “virtuous woman.” In mentioning this fact Boaz expresses still more emphatically his own high regard for Ruth.