Topical Encyclopedia Bo'az 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 relative of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. Bo'az's account is a testament to his character, faithfulness, and the providence of God in the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ.Lineage and Background Bo'az is introduced in the Book of Ruth as "a man of standing" (Ruth 2:1), indicating his wealth, influence, and reputation in the community. He is the son of Salmon and Rahab, the latter being the Canaanite woman who hid the Israelite spies in Jericho (Matthew 1:5). This lineage highlights the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan, as Rahab was a non-Israelite who became part of the Israelite community through her faith. Role in the Book of Ruth Bo'az's primary narrative occurs in the Book of Ruth, where he emerges as a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth, the Moabite widow of Mahlon, Naomi's son. Ruth, having returned with Naomi to Bethlehem, gleans in Bo'az's fields to provide for herself and her mother-in-law. Bo'az notices her diligence and kindness and instructs his workers to leave extra grain for her, demonstrating his generosity and compassion (Ruth 2:8-16). Bo'az's role as a kinsman-redeemer is pivotal. According to the Levirate marriage custom, a close relative could marry a widow to preserve the family line and property. Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Bo'az for this purpose, and Ruth does so with humility and respect (Ruth 3:9). Bo'az responds with integrity, acknowledging Ruth's loyalty and virtue, and agrees to redeem her if a closer relative declines the responsibility (Ruth 3:10-13). Marriage to Ruth and Legacy Bo'az's actions at the city gate, where he negotiates with the nearer kinsman, reflect his commitment to righteousness and the law. When the nearer kinsman relinquishes his right, Bo'az publicly declares his intention to marry Ruth, thus securing her and Naomi's future (Ruth 4:9-10). Their marriage is blessed by the community, and Ruth bears a son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:13-17). Theological Significance Bo'az is often seen as a type of Christ, embodying the role of a redeemer who acts selflessly to restore and protect. His account illustrates themes of redemption, providence, and the inclusion of Gentiles in God's covenant community. Through Bo'az, the lineage leading to David and ultimately to Jesus is preserved, underscoring God's sovereign plan in salvation history. Bo'az's life and actions exemplify faithfulness, kindness, and obedience to God's law, making him a model of godly character and a key figure in the unfolding of God's redemptive purposes. Greek 1003. Boos -- Boaz, an Israelite ... NASB Word Usage Boaz (3). Boaz. Of Hebrew origin (Bo'az); Booz, (ie Boaz), an Israelite -- Booz. see HEBREW Bo'az. (boes) -- 2 Occurrences. (boos) -- 1 Occurrence ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1003.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 1162. Boaz -- "quickness," an ancestor of David, also a pillar ...... Boaz. 1163 . "quickness," an ancestor of David, also a pillar before the temple. Transliteration: Boaz Phonetic Spelling: (bo'-az) Short Definition: Boaz. ... /hebrew/1162.htm - 6k Thesaurus Bo'az (24 Occurrences)Bo'az. Boaz, Bo'az. Boaz's . Multi-Version Concordance Bo'az (24 Occurrences). Matthew 1:5 Salmon became the father of Boaz by Rahab. ... /b/bo'az.htm - 12k Boaz (25 Occurrences) Jachin (8 Occurrences) Boaz's (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Bo'az (24 Occurrences)Matthew 1:5 Luke 3:32 Ruth 2:1 Ruth 2:3 Ruth 2:4 Ruth 2:5 Ruth 2:8 Ruth 2:11 Ruth 2:14 Ruth 2:15 Ruth 2:19 Ruth 2:23 Ruth 3:2 Ruth 3:7 Ruth 4:1 Ruth 4:5 Ruth 4:8 Ruth 4:9 Ruth 4:13 Ruth 4:21 1 Kings 7:21 1 Chronicles 2:11 1 Chronicles 2:12 2 Chronicles 3:17 Subtopics Related Terms |