The Hebrew name Bôʻaz, represented by H1162, identifies a pivotal ancestor of David and is also the name given to a pillar in front of the temple. It appears 24 times across 22 unique verses in the Bible, primarily in the book of Ruth. The word itself comes from an unused root of uncertain meaning.
In the biblical narrative, Boaz is introduced as a mighty H1368 man H376 of wealth H2428 from Bethlehem (Ruth 2:1, Ruth 2:4). He demonstrates profound kindness and provides protection to Ruth the Moabitess, instructing his workers not to reproach H3637 her and ensuring she has food and water (Ruth 2:8, Ruth 2:14, Ruth 2:15). Ultimately, Boaz fulfills the role of a kinsman-redeemer by purchasing the land of Naomi's deceased husband and taking Ruth as his wife H802 to raise up H6965 the name H8034 of the dead upon his inheritance H5159 (Ruth 4:5, Ruth 4:13). The name Boaz is also given to the left H8042 pillar set up in the porch H197 of the temple H1964 1 Kings 7:21.
Several related words illuminate the narrative and thematic context surrounding Boaz:
- H1350 gâʼal (kinsfolk(-man), redeem(-er)): This term is central to Boaz's role. It describes the responsibility of the next of kin to redeem a relative's property or marry his widow, a duty Boaz discusses with another kinsman H1350 at the city gate Ruth 4:1.
- H2428 chayil (wealth, virtue, valor, strength): This word describes Boaz's standing in the community as a man of wealth and influence, which enabled him to perform his duties as a redeemer Ruth 2:1.
- H5159 nachălâh (heritage, inheritance, possession): The preservation of family inheritance is the primary motivation for Boaz's actions, ensuring that the property and name of Elimelech's family line are not lost Ruth 4:5.
- H7327 Rûwth (friend; Ruth): As the recipient of Boaz's kindness and the other central figure in the narrative, Ruth's story is inextricably linked to his. Boaz formally purchased H7069 her to be his wife Ruth 4:10.
The significance of H1162 is both personal and prophetic:
- Kinsman-Redeemer: Boaz acts as a model of faithfulness and compassion, fulfilling his legal and moral obligations to care for Naomi and Ruth. He bought H7069 all that belonged to Naomi's family, including her sons Mahlon H4248 and Chilion H3630, to preserve their legacy Ruth 4:9.
- Ancestor of David: Through his marriage to Ruth, Boaz becomes a crucial link in the lineage of King David. The genealogy is explicitly stated: Salmon H8012 begat H3205 Boaz H1162, and Boaz H1162 begat H3205 Obed H5744, who was the father of Jesse, David's father (Ruth 4:21, 1 Chronicles 2:12).
- Pillar of Strength: As the name of one of the two great pillars before the temple H1964, Boaz stands alongside Jachin H3199, whose name means "he (or it) will establish." These pillars represented the strength and stability of God's house and covenant with Israel (1 Kings 7:21, 2 Chronicles 3:17).
In summary, H1162 represents far more than just a name. Through the person of Boaz, it embodies the virtues of integrity, compassion, and redemptive action. His role as a kinsman-redeemer and his vital position in the ancestry of David give him immense importance in salvation history. As a temple pillar, the name symbolizes the foundational strength and permanence of God's presence among His people.
TRV