Boaz is a significant figure in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament Book of Ruth. His story is one of kindness, loyalty, and divine providence, and it offers profound insights into God's redemptive plan and the virtues of godly character. To understand Boaz's role and significance, it is essential to delve into the historical, cultural, and theological contexts of his story.
Boaz first appears in the Book of Ruth, which is set during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and moral chaos in Israel (Judges 21:25). Despite the tumultuous backdrop, the narrative of Ruth and Boaz shines as a beacon of faithfulness and integrity. Boaz is introduced in Ruth 2:1 as "a man of standing" from the clan of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. This description indicates that Boaz was a man of wealth, influence, and upright character.
The story begins with Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth returning to Bethlehem from Moab after the deaths of their husbands. Ruth, a Moabite, pledges her loyalty to Naomi and to Naomi's God, Yahweh, in one of the most poignant declarations of faith in the Bible: "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 commitment sets the stage for Ruth's encounter with Boaz.
Ruth goes to glean in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi, and it is in Boaz's field that she finds herself. Gleaning was a provision in the Mosaic Law that allowed the poor and the foreigner to gather leftover grains during the harvest (Leviticus 19:9-10). Boaz's response to Ruth's presence is noteworthy. He goes beyond the letter of the law and shows extraordinary kindness and generosity. He ensures Ruth's safety, instructs his workers to leave extra grain for her, and provides her with food and water (Ruth 2:8-16).
Boaz's actions are rooted in his recognition of Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her faith in God. He praises Ruth, saying, "May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge" (Ruth 2:12, NIV). This blessing reflects Boaz's deep faith and his acknowledgment of God's providence.
As the story progresses, Naomi devises a plan for Ruth to seek Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer. The concept of the kinsman-redeemer, or "goel" in Hebrew, is another provision in the Mosaic Law. It required a close relative to redeem a family member in distress, whether through buying back land that had been sold or marrying a widow to preserve the family line (Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Naomi instructs Ruth to go to Boaz at the threshing floor and request his protection and redemption (Ruth 3:1-4).
Ruth's approach to Boaz is both bold and humble. She uncovers his feet and lies down, a gesture of submission and a request for protection. When Boaz awakens and finds Ruth at his feet, she asks him to spread his garment over her, symbolizing his role as her redeemer (Ruth 3:9). Boaz responds with admiration for Ruth's virtue and reassures her of his intention to fulfill the role of kinsman-redeemer, provided a closer relative declines the responsibility.
Boaz's integrity and commitment to doing what is right are evident in his handling of the situation. He approaches the nearer kinsman-redeemer in a public setting, at the town gate, to ensure transparency and fairness. When the closer relative relinquishes his right, Boaz formally redeems the land and marries Ruth, thereby preserving the family line of Elimelech (Ruth 4:1-10).
The marriage of Boaz and Ruth is blessed by the community, and they become the great-grandparents of King David, establishing their place in the lineage of Jesus Christ (Ruth 4:13-22; Matthew 1:5-6). This genealogical link underscores the theological significance of their story. Boaz's role as a redeemer prefigures the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as our Kinsman-Redeemer.
Boaz's character is exemplary in many ways. His kindness, generosity, and faithfulness reflect the heart of God. He embodies the virtues of a godly man who acts with integrity and compassion, even when it requires personal sacrifice. Boaz's willingness to marry Ruth, a Moabite widow, also demonstrates his openness and acceptance, breaking down ethnic and social barriers.
The story of Boaz and Ruth is a powerful narrative of God's providence and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Through ordinary acts of kindness and faithfulness, God weaves together a story that leads to the birth of the Messiah. Boaz's life teaches us that God often works through the ordinary and the overlooked to accomplish His extraordinary purposes.
In conclusion, Boaz is a pivotal figure in the Bible whose life and actions offer profound lessons in godly character and divine providence. His story is a testament to the power of faith, kindness, and integrity in fulfilling God's redemptive purposes. Through Boaz, we see a glimpse of the ultimate Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who brings hope and restoration to all who seek refuge under His wings.
