Introduction:
The account of Boaz's kindness to Ruth is a significant narrative found in the Book of Ruth, chapters 2-4. This account is set during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and spiritual upheaval in Israel. The narrative highlights themes of loyalty, providence, and redemption, and it underscores the importance of kindness and integrity.

Background:
Ruth, a Moabite widow, accompanies her mother-in-law Naomi back to Bethlehem after the death of their husbands. Naomi, originally from Bethlehem, returns to her homeland in a state of destitution. Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi is a testament to her loyalty and faithfulness, as she famously declares, "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's Introduction:
Boaz is introduced as a "man of standing" from the clan of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband (Ruth 2:1). His character is depicted as honorable and godly, and he plays a pivotal role in the unfolding of God's plan for Ruth and Naomi.

Ruth Gleans in Boaz's Field:
In Ruth 2, Ruth goes to glean in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi. The law of gleaning, as outlined in Leviticus 19:9-10 and Deuteronomy 24:19, allowed the poor and foreigners to gather leftover grain during the harvest. Ruth's choice of Boaz's field is portrayed as divinely guided, as the text notes, "As it turned out, she was working in a field belonging to Boaz" (Ruth 2:3).

Boaz's Kindness:
Boaz notices Ruth and inquires about her identity. Upon learning of her loyalty to Naomi, he extends kindness and protection to her. He instructs his workers to allow Ruth to glean among the sheaves and even to leave extra grain for her to gather (Ruth 2:15-16). Boaz's actions reflect his adherence to the spirit of the law and his compassion for the vulnerable.

Boaz further demonstrates his kindness by inviting Ruth to eat with his harvesters, offering her bread and roasted grain (Ruth 2:14). His generosity ensures that Ruth and Naomi have ample provision, as Ruth returns home with an abundance of barley.

The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer:
The concept of the kinsman-redeemer 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 25:25-28; Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Naomi identifies Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer for Ruth (Ruth 2:20).

Ruth's Proposal and Boaz's Response:
In Ruth 3, Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor, a culturally appropriate setting for proposing marriage under the circumstances. Ruth humbly requests Boaz to spread his garment over her, symbolizing his willingness to take her as his wife and fulfill the role of kinsman-redeemer (Ruth 3:9).

Boaz responds with admiration for Ruth's character, acknowledging her kindness and integrity. He agrees to fulfill the role of redeemer, contingent upon the decision of a closer relative who has the first right of redemption (Ruth 3:10-13).

Resolution and Marriage:
In Ruth 4, Boaz addresses the matter at the town gate, a place of legal transactions. The closer relative relinquishes his right to redeem, allowing Boaz to marry Ruth. The elders and witnesses bless the union, invoking the names of Rachel, Leah, and Tamar, women who played significant roles in Israel's history (Ruth 4:11-12).

Boaz marries Ruth, and they have a son named Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. This lineage is significant in the biblical narrative, as it leads to the birth of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Redeemer (Matthew 1:5-16).

Significance:
The account of Boaz's kindness to Ruth is a powerful illustration of God's providence and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Boaz's actions exemplify the biblical virtues of kindness, integrity, and faithfulness, serving as a model for believers. The narrative also highlights the inclusion of Gentiles in God's covenant community, foreshadowing the universal scope of the Gospel.