of Hebrew origin (בֹּעַז); Booz, (i.e. Boaz), an Israelite:--Booz.
Transliteration:Boóz
Pronunciation:bo-oz'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term G1003 (Βοόζ, *Boóz*) is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun `{{H1162}}` (בֹּעַז, *Boaz*). As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual. The underlying Hebrew name `{{H1162}}` is generally understood to mean "in him is strength" or "swiftness," derived from the root `{{H5810}}` (עָזַז, *'azaz*), which signifies "to be strong, mighty, or fierce." While the name itself carries this powerful connotation, its primary function in the biblical text is to refer to the person of Boaz, whose character and actions embody aspects of this strength and integrity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Greek form G1003 (Βοόζ) appears exclusively in the New Testament, specifically within the genealogies of Jesus Christ. It is found in [[Matthew 1:5]] and [[Luke 3:32]]. In both instances, Boaz is listed as a direct ancestor of Jesus, highlighting his crucial role in the lineage leading to the Messiah.
The primary narrative concerning Boaz is found in the Old Testament Book of Ruth. Here, Boaz is portrayed as a wealthy and respected landowner in Bethlehem, a kinsman of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. His character is consistently depicted as righteous, generous, and devout. He demonstrates profound kindness and responsibility towards Ruth, a foreign widow, allowing her to glean in his fields and ensuring her protection ([[Ruth 2:8-16]]).
Boaz's most significant role is that of the kinsman-redeemer (גֹּאֵל, *go'el*), a legal and social figure responsible for protecting the interests of a deceased relative's family. He fulfills this duty by purchasing Elimelech's land and, crucially, by marrying Ruth to raise up an heir for the deceased, thus preserving the family name and inheritance ([[Ruth 4:1-10]]). This act of redemption is pivotal, as their son Obed becomes the father of Jesse and the grandfather of King David ([[Ruth 4:17-22]]), firmly establishing Boaz within the Davidic and ultimately the messianic line. The inclusion of Rahab (a Gentile, [[Matthew 1:5]]) and Ruth (a Moabitess) in this lineage underscores God's redemptive plan encompassing all nations.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H1162}}` (בֹּעַז, *Boaz*):** The Hebrew original of G1003, providing the etymological root and the full narrative context of the individual.
* **`{{H7327}}` (Ruth):** The Old Testament book that narrates the life and actions of Boaz, detailing his role as a kinsman-redeemer.
* **Kinsman-Redeemer (גֹּאֵל, *go'el*):** This legal and social institution is central to understanding Boaz's character. The *go'el* had the responsibility to redeem family property, avenge blood, and ensure the continuation of a family line, particularly through levirate marriage or a similar arrangement, as Boaz does for Ruth and Naomi.
* **Levirate Marriage:** While Boaz was not Ruth's deceased husband's brother, he acted as the next available kinsman-redeemer, fulfilling the spirit of the law found in [[Deuteronomy 25:5-10]] to raise up an heir for the deceased.
* **Davidic Lineage:** Boaz is a critical link in the genealogical chain that connects Abraham, Judah, and David, ultimately leading to Jesus Christ. His actions ensure the continuation of this divinely chosen line.
### Theological Significance
Boaz holds profound theological significance, particularly in his role as a type or foreshadowing of Christ.
* **Divine Providence and Redemption:** The story of Boaz and Ruth is a testament to God's meticulous providence. Boaz's righteous character and willingness to act as a kinsman-redeemer are instrumental in God's plan to establish the Davidic dynasty, through which the Messiah would come. His redemption of Ruth and her inheritance beautifully prefigures Christ's ultimate redemption of humanity from sin and death, restoring our spiritual inheritance in God.
* **Inclusion of Gentiles:** Boaz's marriage to Ruth, a Moabitess, highlights God's expansive grace that transcends ethnic and national boundaries. This foreshadows the New Testament revelation that Gentiles would be included in the covenant community through faith in Christ, a theme powerfully reinforced by the presence of Gentile women like Rahab and Ruth in Jesus's genealogy.
* **Righteousness and Covenant Faithfulness:** Boaz exemplifies the virtues of a faithful and compassionate Israelite. His adherence to the Law, his generosity towards the poor and vulnerable, and his integrity in all his dealings demonstrate a life lived in humble obedience to God. He is a model of covenant faithfulness and practical righteousness.
* **Messianic Lineage:** Boaz's pivotal position in the genealogies of [[Matthew 1:5]] and [[Luke 3:32]] underscores the divine orchestration of history to bring about the promised Messiah. Every individual in this lineage, including Boaz, played a part in God's unfolding plan of salvation.
### Summary
G1003 (Βοόζ), a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew `{{H1162}}` (Boaz), identifies a central figure in the biblical narrative, primarily known from the Book of Ruth. His name, meaning "in him is strength," reflects his character as a righteous, honorable, and compassionate landowner in Bethlehem. Boaz faithfully fulfills the role of a kinsman-redeemer (*go'el*) for Ruth, a Moabitess widow, and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Through his act of redemption and subsequent marriage to Ruth, he ensures the continuation of Elimelech's family line, leading directly to the birth of Obed, the grandfather of King David. Boaz's inclusion in the genealogies of Jesus Christ in [[Matthew 1:5]] and [[Luke 3:32]] underscores his critical role in the messianic lineage. Theologically, Boaz serves as a powerful type of Christ, the ultimate Redeemer, demonstrating God's meticulous providence, the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan, and the importance of righteousness and covenant faithfulness in the unfolding of salvation history. His life stands as a testament to God's sovereign hand in preparing the way for the Messiah.
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