Who was Boaz in the Bible?

Historical and Cultural Context

Boaz lived during the era of the judges, a time characterized by Israel’s repeated cycles of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance (Judges 2:16–19). In that broader backdrop, the Book of Ruth highlights acts of faithfulness, compassion, and obedience to the Mosaic Law. Bethlehem, Boaz’s hometown, was an agricultural community, which aligns with Boaz’s role as a landowner and farmer.

Introduction to Boaz

Boaz first appears in Ruth 2:1, which says, “Now Naomi had a relative on her husband’s side, a man of standing from the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz.” The description “a man of standing” (often translated “wealthy” or “noble”) points not only to material means but also to moral uprightness. He greets his field workers with a gracious salutation—“The LORD be with you!” (Ruth 2:4)—which reveals his character of genuine care and reverence.

Meaning of Boaz’s Name

In Hebrew, “Boaz” is often linked to the concept of strength or might. While ancient names carried various nuances, the root idea of “strength” in Boaz’s name resonates with his role as a dependable provider and redeemer. This strength became evident through his protection of Ruth and his decisive actions to secure her well-being.

Family Lineage and Influence

Boaz was of the tribe of Judah and a relative of Elimelech, Naomi’s departed husband. Through his marriage to Ruth, Boaz fathered Obed, who became the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:21–22). This genealogy is repeated in Matthew’s Gospel, where Boaz is mentioned in the Messiah’s lineage (Matthew 1:5). His position in this lineage highlights his critical part in God’s redemptive plan.

Boaz as Kinsman-Redeemer

A key biblical concept illustrated through Boaz is the role of the kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: go’el). Under the Mosaic Law, a kinsman-redeemer had responsibility to redeem (buy back) an impoverished relative’s land or even marry a childless widow within the family to preserve the family line (Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5–6). Boaz, acknowledging his duty to do right by Naomi and Ruth, stepped forward when another relative initially had the right to redeem. After ensuring that relative officially declined, Boaz took on the redemption at the city gate, the recognized place for legal transactions (Ruth 4:1–10).

The Redemption of Ruth

Ruth was a Moabite who had accompanied Naomi to Bethlehem after the death of her husband (Ruth 1:16–17). The Mosaic Law provided a means for widows and strangers to glean leftovers in the fields (Leviticus 19:9–10; Deuteronomy 24:19). Boaz not only granted Ruth permission to glean but also instructed his workers to leave extra grain for her (Ruth 2:14–16). This protective posture set the stage for their eventual union. By marrying Ruth, Boaz honored the tradition of raising up offspring for the family line of his relative Elimelech, underscoring his integrity and compassion.

Spiritual and Theological Significance

Boaz’s relationship with Ruth demonstrates divine providence, highlighting overarching themes of God’s care for the vulnerable and the outcast. His actions mirror God’s protective love for those who seek refuge under His “wings” (Ruth 2:12). Furthermore, Boaz’s act of redemption points forward to the greater redemption accomplished by the Messiah. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth and brought her into his covenant family, so the Messiah redeems those who come to Him in faith (Ephesians 1:7).

New Testament Connections

As a direct ancestor of David, Boaz’s significance includes his place in the lineage leading to Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5–6). This genealogy underscores how God orchestrated history to bring forth the promised Redeemer. Boaz’s willingness to include a foreigner in his family depicts the broader truth that God’s Kingdom extends beyond ethnic boundaries, fulfilling promises like Genesis 12:3, which speaks of blessing “all the families of the earth” through Abraham’s seed.

Archaeological and Cultural Insights

Archaeological excavations in and around Bethlehem reveal agrarian life during the time of the judges and monarchy, matching the biblical depiction of gleaning fields and threshing floors. Dead Sea Scroll fragments also preserve portions of books like Deuteronomy and Ruth, affirming the ancient manuscript consistency. These confirmations convey that Boaz’s life and times coincide with cultural practices described in the Book of Ruth, including the legal customs at city gates.

Lessons from Boaz’s Example

1. Kindness and Generosity: Boaz extended unmerited favor and protection to Ruth, reflecting a heart in alignment with biblical principles.

2. Obedience to God’s Law: Adhering to gleaning laws and kinsman-redeemer customs models faithfulness to God’s commandments.

3. Godly Leadership: Managing his workforce with blessing and dignity (Ruth 2:4) provides a template for compassionate leadership.

4. Redemptive Love: Acting as kinsman-redeemer prefigures the sacrificial nature of divine redemption found fully in Christ.

Conclusion

Boaz stands out as an exemplary figure of faithfulness, compassion, and integrity in the Scriptures. Anchored in the covenant community of Israel, he used his resources and position to uphold justice and grace. His marriage to Ruth and their place in Messiah’s lineage link him inseparably to redemptive history. By studying Boaz’s story, one sees the beautiful tapestry of God’s faithfulness, reminding us that even in challenging eras, sovereign plans unfurl to bring about ultimate good.