*Minor differences ignored. Grouped by changes, with first version listed as example.
By "kinsman," understand the גאל gā'al (Ruth 2:20 note).
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.
And now it is true, that I am thy near kinsman,.... Her husband and he being brothers' sons, so own cousins:
howbeit, there is a kinsman nearer than I, who was, the Jews say (w), the brother of her husband's father, and so his uncle, which was a nearer relation than an own cousin.
(w) Midrash Ruth, ut supra. (31. 4. & 34. 2) Jarchi in loc.
*More commentary available at chapter level.