Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Boaz is a significant figure in the Old Testament, primarily known for his role in the Book of Ruth. He is a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem and a kinsman of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. Boaz's account is one of faithfulness, kindness, and redemption, and he is an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ. Lineage and Background: Boaz is introduced in the Book of Ruth as a "man of standing" from the clan of Elimelech (Ruth 2:1). His lineage is significant, as he is a descendant of Perez, the son of Judah and Tamar (Ruth 4:18-22). This genealogy places Boaz in the line of Judah, which is prophetically important for the lineage of the Messiah. Role in the Book of Ruth: Boaz's primary narrative occurs in the Book of Ruth, where he emerges as a central character. After Naomi and her Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth, return to Bethlehem, Ruth goes to glean in the fields to provide for them. She happens upon the field of Boaz, who shows her favor and protection. Boaz instructs his workers to leave extra grain for her and ensures her safety (Ruth 2:8-9). The Kinsman-Redeemer: Boaz's role as a kinsman-redeemer is pivotal. According to the Levirate law, a kinsman-redeemer had the responsibility to marry a widow of a deceased relative to preserve the family line (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Naomi recognizes Boaz as a potential redeemer and instructs Ruth to approach him. Ruth follows Naomi's guidance and, in a culturally significant act, lies at Boaz's feet on the threshing floor, symbolically requesting his protection and redemption (Ruth 3:9). Boaz responds with integrity and honor, acknowledging Ruth's kindness and expressing his willingness to redeem her, provided a closer kinsman does not fulfill the duty (Ruth 3:10-13). Boaz's actions reflect his righteousness and adherence to the law. Marriage to Ruth and Legacy: Boaz successfully negotiates with the nearer kinsman, who relinquishes his right to redeem, allowing Boaz to marry Ruth (Ruth 4:1-10). Their union is blessed by the community, and Ruth bears a son named Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:13-17). This lineage is crucial in the biblical narrative, as it establishes the Davidic line from which Jesus Christ is descended (Matthew 1:5-6). Character and Significance: Boaz is portrayed as a man of integrity, compassion, and faithfulness. His actions demonstrate adherence to God's law and a deep sense of responsibility toward family and community. Boaz's willingness to redeem Ruth and Naomi reflects God's redemptive nature and foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Christ. Conclusion: Boaz's account is a testament to God's providence and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through ordinary lives. His inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience in God's overarching narrative. Library Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... Thesaurus Boaz's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Boaz's (1 Occurrence). Ruth 2:3 And she goeth and cometh and gathereth in a field after the reapers, and ... /b/boaz's.htm - 6k Bo'az (24 Occurrences) Gathereth (65 Occurrences) Boccas Happeneth (7 Occurrences) Resources What did it mean to spread the corner of your garment over someone? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Ruth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about dependability? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Boaz's (1 Occurrence)Ruth 2:3 Subtopics Related Terms |
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