Boaz is a significant character in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the Book of Ruth. He is portrayed as a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, a city in Judah, and as a kind and compassionate man who becomes a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi. The name “Boaz” is of uncertain etymology but may mean “strength” or “swiftness.” Boaz is considered an ancestor of King David and Jesus Christ.
Biblical Timeline
Meeting Ruth
Ruth, a Moabite woman, had married into a Jewish family that had moved to Moab during a famine. After the deaths of her husband, brother-in-law, and father-in-law, she decided to accompany her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem (Ruth 1:16-18). Upon their return, Ruth went to the fields to glean leftover grain during the harvest season, as was the custom for the poor (Ruth 2:2). It was in Boaz’s field that Ruth found herself gleaning. Boaz took notice of Ruth and inquired about her identity. When he learned of her loyalty and kindness to Naomi, he showed her great favor by instructing his workers to leave extra grain for her to gather and by inviting her to eat with them (Ruth 2:5-14). Boaz commended Ruth for her faithfulness to the God of Israel and prayed that she would receive a full reward from the Lord (Ruth 2:11-12).
Boaz as Kinsman-Redeemer
As a close relative of Naomi’s deceased husband, Boaz was eligible to fulfill the role of a kinsman-redeemer, a custom in ancient Israel where a close relative could redeem property and restore the family lineage of a deceased relative (Ruth 2:20). Ruth and Naomi devised a plan for Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor and request that he fulfill this role. Boaz agreed to do so but first had to confirm that there was no closer relative who could fulfill this duty (Ruth 3:9-13). Boaz adhered to the law and customs of Israel in his efforts to become Ruth’s kinsman-redeemer. When the closer relative declined to act as redeemer, Boaz assumed the role and took Ruth as his wife in the presence of the elders and the community (Ruth 4:1-13).
Marriage to Ruth and Birth of Obed
Boaz and Ruth were married, and Ruth gave birth to a son named Obed. Obed would later become the father of Jesse and the grandfather of David, who would become the second king of Israel (Ruth 4:13-17). Through this lineage, Boaz and Ruth are ancestors of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the genealogy in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 1:5-6).
Death of Boaz
The Bible does not provide specific details regarding the death of Boaz.
Additional Notes
Boaz is remembered for his kindness, generosity, and righteousness. He acted as a protector and provider for Ruth and Naomi, and his actions ensured the continuation of the family lineage. The story of Boaz and Ruth is often seen as a testament to the power of loyalty, love, and faithfulness. Additionally, the name “Boaz” is also associated with one of the two pillars of Solomon’s Temple, as mentioned in 1 Kings 7:21 and 2 Chronicles 3:17. The significance of the naming of one of the temple pillars as “Boaz” is a matter of interpretation, but it may symbolize the strength and stability that Boaz demonstrated in his life.