The story of Boaz redeeming Ruth is a beautiful narrative of love, loyalty, and divine providence. It is found in the Book of Ruth, which is one of the Historical Books of the Old Testament. This story unfolds during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and religious turmoil in Israel. Amidst this backdrop, the tale of Ruth and Boaz shines as a beacon of faithfulness and God's redemptive plan.
Ruth, a Moabite widow, comes to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of her husband. Naomi, also a widow, returns to her homeland in Judah after a famine in Moab. Ruth's loyalty to Naomi is evident from the outset when she famously declares, "Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God" (Ruth 1:16, NIV). This declaration sets the stage for Ruth's integration into the Israelite community and her eventual redemption by Boaz.
Boaz, a wealthy and influential man in Bethlehem, is introduced as a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. The concept of a kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: go'el) is central to understanding Boaz's role. According to Levitical law, a kinsman-redeemer had the responsibility to redeem a relative in serious difficulty, which could include redeeming land that a poor relative had sold or marrying a widow to preserve the family line (Leviticus 25:25-28; Deuteronomy 25:5-10).
Ruth first encounters Boaz while gleaning in his fields. Gleaning was a provision in the Law of Moses that allowed the poor and foreigners to gather leftover grain during the harvest (Leviticus 19:9-10). Boaz notices Ruth and learns of her loyalty to Naomi. He shows her kindness, ensuring her safety and providing her with extra grain. Boaz's actions reflect his righteousness and adherence to God's laws, which emphasize care for the vulnerable.
Naomi recognizes Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer and instructs Ruth to approach him. In a culturally significant and somewhat bold move, Ruth goes to Boaz at the threshing floor, uncovers his feet, and lies down. This act is not one of seduction but a request for protection and redemption. Ruth says, "Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family" (Ruth 3:9, NIV). This phrase echoes the language of God's covenant relationship with Israel, where spreading one's garment symbolizes protection and provision (Ezekiel 16:8).
Boaz responds positively to Ruth's request, praising her for her kindness and integrity. However, he notes that there is a closer relative who has the first right of redemption. Boaz's respect for the law and proper procedure is evident as he seeks to resolve the matter honorably. The next day, Boaz meets with the closer relative at the town gate, a place where legal transactions were conducted. He presents the opportunity to redeem Naomi's land and marry Ruth. When the closer relative declines, fearing it might jeopardize his own inheritance, Boaz steps in to fulfill the role of kinsman-redeemer.
Boaz's redemption of Ruth involves several key actions. First, he legally acquires the land that belonged to Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. This action ensures that the land remains within the family and provides for Naomi's future. Second, Boaz marries Ruth, thereby preserving the family line. In doing so, he demonstrates his commitment to God's law and his compassion for Ruth and Naomi.
The marriage of Boaz and Ruth results in the birth of a son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. This genealogical detail is significant, as it places Ruth, a Moabite, in the lineage of Jesus Christ. The inclusion of a foreigner in the Messiah's ancestry highlights God's inclusive and redemptive plan for all humanity.
The story of Boaz and Ruth is rich with theological significance. It illustrates the concept of hesed, a Hebrew word often translated as "loving-kindness" or "steadfast love." Hesed is a central theme in the Book of Ruth, demonstrated through the actions of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. Ruth's loyalty to Naomi, Boaz's kindness to Ruth, and God's providential care all exemplify hesed.
Moreover, Boaz's redemption of Ruth serves as a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work. Just as Boaz redeems Ruth, Jesus Christ redeems humanity. Boaz's willingness to go beyond the letter of the law to show mercy and grace mirrors Christ's sacrificial love. In Ephesians 1:7, Paul writes, "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace" (NIV). This parallel underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.
Additionally, the story of Ruth and Boaz emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience. Ruth's faith in the God of Israel and her obedience to Naomi's guidance lead her to Boaz. Boaz's faithfulness to God's law and his willingness to act righteously result in the preservation and blessing of his family. Their story encourages believers to trust in God's providence and to act with integrity and compassion.
In conclusion, Boaz's redemption of Ruth is a multifaceted narrative that reveals God's faithfulness, the importance of hesed, and the foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work. It highlights the significance of faith, obedience, and the transformative power of God's grace. The story of Ruth and Boaz continues to inspire and instruct believers, reminding us of God's inclusive and redemptive love for all people.
