The answer is: 10

Ruth 4:2

In the closing chapter of the Book of Ruth, we have this enchanting moment where Boaz does something quite noteworthy – he adheres strictly to the customs of his time. Near the city gate, where elders often deliberated on legal matters, he gathered ten of them to bear witness to his agreement with the kinsman-redeemer. This practice emphasizes the importance of accountability and community approval in covenant-making.

Now, why ten elders, you ask? It's not just a random number. In ancient Israelite culture, having ten witnesses provided validity and importance to proceedings. It's akin to our idea today of needing multiple signatures or witnesses on an important document, except here it’s a collective voice shaping family lineage and survival.

Minor details like the number ten might also remind us of the ten spies sent into Canaan, on a different mission without divine backing. Their misleading report pointed toward the significance of responsible leadership – a thread connecting both stories. It's a running theme throughout the Scriptures: Guardians of community identity, standing in solidarity to protect each other.

And don’t forget, what happens in Ruth is a staple example guiding family practices. This book invites readers to reconcile responsibilities with relationships, weaving a beautiful tapestry of kindness, loyalty, and tradition. Ever since Ruth's lineage leads down to King David, you could say those ten elders took part in a much grander narrative!