The Provision of Boaz is a significant theme in the Book of Ruth, illustrating God's providence and the principles of kindness, generosity, and redemption within the context of ancient Israelite society. Boaz, a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, plays a pivotal role in the narrative of Ruth, a Moabite widow, and her mother-in-law, Naomi.

Context and Background

The account unfolds during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and religious upheaval in Israel. Naomi, along with her husband Elimelech and their two sons, had moved to Moab due to a famine in Bethlehem. After the deaths of her husband and sons, Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, accompanied by her Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth. The return to Bethlehem marks the beginning of God's provision through Boaz.

Boaz's Character and Actions

Boaz is introduced as "a man of standing from the clan of Elimelech" (Ruth 2:1). His character is depicted as righteous, compassionate, and obedient to the Law of Moses. Upon Ruth's arrival in his fields to glean, Boaz extends extraordinary kindness and protection to her, going beyond the requirements of the law. He instructs his workers to allow Ruth to glean among the sheaves and even to leave extra grain for her (Ruth 2:15-16).

Boaz's actions reflect the spirit of the Mosaic Law, which commanded landowners to leave the edges of their fields unharvested for the poor and the foreigner (Leviticus 19:9-10). His generosity ensures that Ruth and Naomi have enough food to sustain them, demonstrating God's provision through human agency.

The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer

The concept of the kinsman-redeemer (Hebrew: go'el) is central to the narrative. According to the 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, Deuteronomy 25:5-10). Boaz, recognizing his role as a potential redeemer, agrees to marry Ruth, thus securing her and Naomi's future.

Boaz's willingness to act as a redeemer is a profound act of selflessness and obedience to God's commandments. His actions not only provide for Ruth and Naomi but also restore the family line of Elimelech, leading to the birth of Obed, the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:13-17).

Theological Significance

The Provision of Boaz is a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Boaz's role as a redeemer prefigures the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as our Kinsman-Redeemer. The narrative highlights themes of inclusion, as Ruth, a foreigner, is grafted into the lineage of David and ultimately, the Messiah.

Boaz's provision is a model of godly character, demonstrating how individuals can be instruments of God's grace and provision. His actions underscore the importance of living out one's faith through acts of kindness and obedience to God's laws, serving as a timeless example for believers.