What does Boaz's blessing reveal about his character and understanding of God's law? Witnessing Boaz in the Threshing-Floor Night “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed before, for you have not run after the younger men, rich or poor.” – Ruth 3:10 Words that Unveil the Man • “The LORD bless you” – Instinctive instinct to invoke Yahweh’s name; Boaz reflexively turns every moment God-ward (cf. Numbers 6:24-26). • “my daughter” – Protective, father-like address; signals purity, honor, and care rather than self-seeking desire (cf. 1 Timothy 5:2). • “This kindness is greater than that which you showed before” – He recognizes and praises Ruth’s covenant loyalty (ḥesed) shown to Naomi (Ruth 2:11). • “you have not run after the younger men” – Observes Ruth’s submission to God’s order for a kinsman-redeemer, not personal romance or gain. • “rich or poor” – Boaz knows motives are spiritual, not economic; he esteems faithfulness above social advantage. Character Traits Emerging 1. God-centered reverence • First words: blessing in God’s name. 2. Moral purity and restraint • Treats Ruth with chaste respect even in a potentially compromising setting (Proverbs 31:10-11). 3. Discernment of true virtue • Recognizes ḥesed where the world might see presumption. 4. Generosity of spirit • Eager to affirm another’s goodness (Philippians 4:8). 5. Humble gratitude • Sees Ruth’s proposal as a kindness to him, though he is the benefactor. 6. Courageous willingness to obey • Ready to take the costly role of go’el, whatever legal hurdles follow (Ruth 3:12-13). Boaz’s Working Knowledge of God’s Law • Kinsman-Redeemer principle – Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10 – He instantly interprets Ruth’s request as lawful appeal for redemption. • Protection of widows and foreigners – Deuteronomy 10:18; Exodus 22:22-24 – His earlier gleaning provisions (Ruth 2:8-9) and present blessing display fidelity to these statutes. • Sanctity at the city gate – Ruth 4:1-10 – He plans to settle the matter legally, valuing God-ordained process over private shortcuts. • Covenant kindness (ḥesed) – Micah 6:8 – Boaz sees God’s heart in Ruth’s faithfulness and responds in kind. Why This Matters for Us • Genuine faith speaks God’s name naturally in daily conversation. • True strength is protective, not predatory. • Knowing Scripture equips believers to interpret life events through God’s categories, not culture’s. • Obedience to God’s revealed order frees us to act decisively and honorably, even when emotions run high. |
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