Boaz is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, primarily known for his role in the Book of Ruth. He is a key ancestor of Jesus Christ, appearing in the genealogies presented in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. His account is a testament to faithfulness, redemption, and divine providence.

Historical Context

Boaz lived during the time of the Judges, a period characterized by social and religious upheaval in Israel. This era, marked by a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, sets the backdrop for the account of Ruth and Boaz. The narrative unfolds in Bethlehem, a town in the tribal territory of Judah, which later becomes significant as the birthplace of King David and Jesus Christ.

Lineage and Family

Boaz is introduced as a man of standing from the clan of Elimelech (Ruth 2:1). He is a descendant of Perez, the son of Judah and Tamar, as outlined in the genealogical records (Ruth 4:18-22; Matthew 1:3-5). This lineage places Boaz within the tribe of Judah, aligning with the prophetic declarations concerning the Messiah's descent from Judah (Genesis 49:10).

Role in the Book of Ruth

The Book of Ruth details the account of Naomi, her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth, and their return to Bethlehem after the death of Naomi's husband and sons. Boaz emerges as a kinsman-redeemer, a role defined by the Levirate marriage laws and the redemption of property (Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10). His actions reflect the covenantal faithfulness expected of God's people.

Boaz's first encounter with Ruth occurs when she gleans in his fields to provide for herself and Naomi. Impressed by her loyalty to Naomi and her reputation for virtue, Boaz extends protection and generosity to Ruth, instructing his workers to leave extra grain for her (Ruth 2:8-16). His kindness and integrity are evident as he ensures Ruth's safety and provision.

Redemption and Marriage

Ruth, under Naomi's guidance, approaches Boaz at the threshing floor, seeking his protection and invoking his duty as a kinsman-redeemer (Ruth 3:9). Boaz responds with honor and commitment, acknowledging a closer relative who has the first right of redemption. Demonstrating his integrity, Boaz approaches this relative at the town gate, a place of legal transactions, and secures the right to redeem Naomi's land and marry Ruth (Ruth 4:1-10).

Boaz's marriage to Ruth results in the birth of Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:13-17). This union not only secures the lineage of David but also integrates Ruth, a Moabite, into the covenant community of Israel, highlighting the inclusivity of God's redemptive plan.

Significance in the Genealogy of Jesus

Boaz's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus underscores the fulfillment of God's promises through unexpected and diverse means. The Gospel of Matthew traces Jesus' lineage through Boaz, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenantal faithfulness from Abraham to David and ultimately to Christ (Matthew 1:5-16). This genealogy affirms Jesus as the rightful heir to the throne of David, fulfilling the messianic prophecies.

Boaz's account, marked by righteousness, compassion, and obedience to God's law, serves as a precursor to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. His life exemplifies the virtues of faithfulness and integrity, qualities that resonate throughout the biblical narrative and find their ultimate expression in the person and work of Jesus.Ruth 2:1
And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz.
Nave's Topical Index

Ruth 3:1
Then Naomi her mother in law said to her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you?
Nave's Topical Index

Ruth 4:1
Then went Boaz up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the kinsman of whom Boaz spoke came by; to whom he said, Ho, such a one! turn aside, sit down here. And he turned aside, and sat down.
Nave's Topical Index

The Land and the People.
... in the grainfields, as she did in the field of Boaz; where his ancestor, the
poet-king ... to sudden violent storms, such as the one which Jesus commanded to ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 17 the land and.htm

Matt. I. 1
... "The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the ... a man, though he have an alien for
his ancestor, though he ... and reduced to the utmost poverty, yet Boaz when he ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on the gospel of saint matthew/homily iii matt i 1.htm

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