Ruth 3:12 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I. There is a kinsman nearer than I-- It is very likely that Naomi was not acquainted with this circumstance. Some have supposed that there was a brother of Elimelech remaining, who was nearer than Boaz, who is supposed to have been only a nephew; the former, therefore, must have a prior right.