THEOSISAmbrose of Milan
According to the established custom, when a man passed away, the bond of marriage with his wife transferred to his brother or nearest relative, allowing the kin to continue the family lineage. Thus, Ruth, a foreigner, found herself married to an Israelite, and after his death, the duty fell to the closest relative. Boaz had noticed her while she was gleaning to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, having already developed feelings for her. Nevertheless, she could not become Boaz's wife until the right of redemption, represented by the removal of the shoe of her deceased husband's kinsman, was fulfilled.
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This narrative, while straightforward, carries a deep significance. One reality was realized, and another emerged. If we adhere strictly to the literal interpretation, we may uncover a sense of shame or horror associated with the physical unions implied by the narrative. However, it symbolizes the One who needed to be raised from the lineage of Israel—where Christ was born in the flesh—in order to restore the lifeless lineage of a deceased relative, that is, the nation itself. The commandments of the law, understood spiritually, represent the marriage shoe symbolizing engagement to the Church.
And he who does not accept the Church has metaphorically removed his shoes. As God instructed Moses to take off his sandals (Exodus 3:5) to avoid assuming the role of the Bridegroom of the Church, so too did the true Bridegroom retain His shoes. This is why John proclaimed, “I am not worthy to untie the strap of His sandal” (Luke 3:16), thus presenting himself as a prototype involved in the construction of Israel's household.