The marriage of Boaz and Ruth is a significant event in the biblical narrative, found in the Book of Ruth, which is part of the Old Testament. This union is not only a touching love account but also a profound example of God's providence and the unfolding of His redemptive plan for humanity.

Context and Background

The account of Ruth takes place during the time of the judges, a period characterized by social and spiritual turmoil in Israel. Ruth, a Moabite woman, becomes a widow after the death of her husband, Mahlon, who was an Israelite from Bethlehem. Ruth's mother-in-law, Naomi, also a widow, decides to return to Bethlehem after hearing that the Lord had provided food for His people. Ruth, demonstrating loyalty and devotion, insists on accompanying Naomi, famously declaring, "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God" (Ruth 1:16).

Boaz: The Kinsman-Redeemer

Upon their return to Bethlehem, Ruth and Naomi face the challenges of poverty and uncertainty. Ruth takes the initiative to glean in the fields to provide for them, and she happens upon the field of Boaz, a wealthy and influential relative of Naomi's deceased husband, Elimelech. Boaz is introduced as a man of noble character, and he shows kindness and protection to Ruth, recognizing her loyalty to Naomi.

The concept of the kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: "goel") is central to the narrative. According to the Mosaic Law, a kinsman-redeemer had the responsibility to redeem a relative in serious difficulty, which could include marrying a widow to preserve the family line (Leviticus 25:25-55; Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Naomi identifies Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer for Ruth.

The Proposal and Marriage

Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Boaz discreetly at the threshing floor, a culturally appropriate setting for such a proposal. Ruth follows Naomi's guidance and, in a gesture of humility and submission, asks Boaz to spread his cloak over her, symbolizing his role as her redeemer. Boaz responds favorably, acknowledging Ruth's kindness and integrity, and expresses his willingness to fulfill the role of kinsman-redeemer, provided a closer relative declines the responsibility.

Boaz approaches the nearer kinsman at the city gate, a place of legal transactions, and presents the situation. When the nearer kinsman relinquishes his right to redeem, Boaz publicly declares his intention to marry Ruth, thus securing her and Naomi's future. The elders and witnesses at the gate bless the union, saying, "May the LORD make the woman entering your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel" (Ruth 4:11).

Significance in the Lineage of David and Jesus

The marriage of Boaz and Ruth results in the birth of Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. This lineage is crucial, as it establishes the genealogical line through which Jesus Christ, the Messiah, would eventually be born. The inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite, in this lineage highlights the universality of God's redemptive plan and His grace extending beyond the boundaries of Israel.

The account of Boaz and Ruth is a testament to God's faithfulness, the importance of covenant loyalty, and the transformative power of love and redemption. It serves as a reminder of how God can use ordinary people and circumstances to fulfill His extraordinary purposes.