Boaz was a significant biblical figure known primarily from the Book of Ruth in the Hebrew Bible. He was a wealthy and respected landowner in Bethlehem, a relative of Naomi's deceased husband Elimelech, and part of the lineage that would lead to King David and ultimately Jesus Christ
. Background and Family
- Boaz was the son of Salmon and Rahab, the latter believed to be Rahab of Jericho who showed faith in God by protecting Hebrew spies
- He belonged to the tribe of Judah and was connected to Elimelech's family, making him a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth, Naomi's Moabite daughter-in-law
Role in the Story of Ruth
- When Ruth returned to Bethlehem as a widow, Boaz noticed her gleaning in his fields and showed her kindness by providing protection and extra grain
- Ruth approached Boaz to invoke his right as a kinsman-redeemer to marry her and preserve her deceased husband's family line. Boaz agreed after ensuring no closer relative had a prior claim
- Their marriage restored Naomi’s family inheritance and lineage, producing a son named Obed, who became the grandfather of King David
Character and Legacy
- Boaz is portrayed as a man of integrity, generosity, and faithfulness to God’s law. He exemplified mercy, justice, and compassion, reflecting God’s character
- He is considered an Old Testament type of Christ, the ultimate Redeemer, caring for physical and spiritual needs
- Jewish tradition holds that Boaz was possibly a member of the Sanhedrin and that he was older at the time of his marriage to Ruth, possibly a widower without children before their union
In summary, Boaz was a righteous and influential man who played a crucial role in preserving the lineage of David and, by extension, the messianic line in the Bible. His story highlights themes of loyalty, redemption, and God's providence
