from an unused root of uncertain meaning; Boaz, the ancestor of David; also the name of a pillar in front of the temple; Boaz.
Transliteration:Bôʻaz
Pronunciation:bo'-az
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun בֹּעַז (Bôʻaz), Strong's number `{{H1162}}`, derives from an unused root whose precise meaning is uncertain. While the etymology remains debated among scholars, traditional interpretations and proposed derivations often link the name to concepts of "in him is strength," "swiftness," or "alacrity." This proposed meaning, though not definitively provable from an attested root, resonates powerfully with the biblical contexts in which the name appears. Primarily, בֹּעַז functions as a proper noun referring to two distinct, yet symbolically resonant, entities: a prominent individual in the lineage of David and a significant architectural feature of Solomon's Temple. Its semantic range is thus confined to these specific referents, with the underlying, albeit uncertain, etymological suggestion of strength or establishment contributing to its broader theological resonance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name בֹּעַז appears in two primary biblical contexts.
1. **Boaz, the Ancestor of David:** This is the most extensive and significant usage, primarily found in the Book of Ruth. Boaz is introduced as a wealthy and prominent landowner in Bethlehem, a relative of Elimelech, Naomi's deceased husband. He plays the crucial role of the kinsman-redeemer (גּוֹאֵל - `{{H1350}}`) for Ruth and Naomi.
* In [[Ruth 2:1-23]], Boaz demonstrates remarkable kindness, generosity, and integrity towards Ruth, a foreign Moabite widow, allowing her to glean in his fields and ensuring her protection. His character is portrayed as righteous and honorable, deeply rooted in Israelite law and custom.
* In [[Ruth 3:1-18]], Naomi instructs Ruth to appeal to Boaz as her kinsman-redeemer. Boaz, recognizing his obligation and Ruth's virtuous character, commits to fulfilling the levirate duty, even though there is a closer relative.
* In [[Ruth 4:1-12]], Boaz publicly and legally executes the redemption of Elimelech's land and takes Ruth as his wife, ensuring the continuation of the family line and the preservation of the inheritance. This act of redemption is celebrated by the elders at the gate.
* The union of Boaz and Ruth results in the birth of Obed, who becomes the father of Jesse and the grandfather of King David ([[Ruth 4:13-22]]). This makes Boaz a pivotal figure in the messianic lineage, as recorded in genealogies like [[1 Chronicles 2:11-12]], [[Matthew 1:5]], and [[Luke 3:32]]. His actions are instrumental in God's unfolding plan of salvation.
2. **Boaz, the Temple Pillar:** The name בֹּעַז also designates one of the two massive bronze pillars that stood at the entrance of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem.
* [[1 Kings 7:21]] states, "He set up the pillars at the portico of the temple. He set up the right pillar and called its name Jachin, and he set up the left pillar and called its name Boaz."
* [[2 Chronicles 3:17]] reiterates this, confirming their placement and names.
* These pillars, Jachin ("He will establish") and Boaz (often interpreted as "in it is strength" or "by strength"), were not structural but symbolic, representing God's established presence and the strength of His covenant with Israel, particularly in His dwelling place.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of בֹּעַז naturally connects to several key biblical concepts:
* **Kinsman-Redeemer (גּוֹאֵל - `{{H1350}}`):** Boaz perfectly exemplifies this role, demonstrating the legal and moral obligations to redeem family land and preserve lineage. This concept foreshadows Christ's ultimate redemption.
* **Lineage and Genealogy (יוּחֲסִים - `{{H3187}}`):** Boaz's marriage to Ruth is a critical link in the Davidic and, by extension, the messianic line. The meticulous recording of genealogies underscores God's faithfulness to His promises.
* **Covenant Faithfulness (חֶסֶד - `{{H2617}}`):** Boaz's actions in Ruth reflect *hesed*, loyal love and covenant faithfulness, not only to the Law but also to Naomi and Ruth.
* **Temple Symbolism:** The pillars Jachin and Boaz are rich in theological meaning. Their names, "He will establish" and "In strength," together convey the idea that God's presence in the Temple is both steadfastly established and powerfully sustained. They speak to the enduring nature of God's dwelling among His people.
* **Strength (כֹּחַ - `{{H3581}}`, עֹז - `{{H5797}}`):** While the root of בֹּעַז is uncertain, the common interpretation of its meaning ("in him is strength") aligns with both the character of Boaz (a man of integrity and capability) and the symbolism of the Temple pillar (representing divine might and stability).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of בֹּעַז is profound, touching upon divine providence, redemption, and the nature of God's presence.
* **Divine Providence and Sovereignty:** The story of Boaz and Ruth is a powerful testament to God's sovereign hand guiding seemingly ordinary human events to fulfill His extraordinary purposes. Boaz's righteous character and willingness to act as kinsman-redeemer are divinely orchestrated to preserve the lineage through which the Messiah would come. This highlights God's meticulous care for His covenant people and His ultimate plan of salvation.
* **Type of Christ the Redeemer:** Boaz serves as a beautiful type or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. Just as Boaz, a wealthy and honorable kinsman, redeemed Ruth and her inheritance, Christ, our divine Kinsman, redeems humanity from sin and death, restoring our spiritual inheritance. Boaz's compassion, generosity, and legal fulfillment of redemption duties mirror Christ's perfect work on the cross.
* **God's Established Presence and Strength:** The pillar named Boaz in the Temple speaks to the enduring attributes of God. It signifies that God's dwelling among His people is not temporary or weak but firmly established and upheld by His divine strength. This provides assurance of God's faithfulness and His powerful presence within His covenant community.
* **Integrity and Righteousness:** The character of Boaz in the Book of Ruth exemplifies what it means to live righteously under God's Law. His actions are marked by integrity, compassion, and a deep respect for both legal obligations and personal virtue, serving as a model for God's people.
### Summary
The Hebrew word בֹּעַז (Bôʻaz), Strong's number `{{H1162}}`, refers to a proper noun with an uncertain etymological root, though commonly associated with "strength" or "in him is strength." Its primary biblical occurrences are twofold: as the name of Boaz, a righteous and pivotal ancestor of King David and an instrumental figure in the messianic lineage through his role as kinsman-redeemer to Ruth; and as the name of one of the two significant bronze pillars (Boaz and Jachin) at the entrance of Solomon's Temple, symbolizing God's established presence and strength. Both contexts, whether through the character of a faithful man or the architectural symbolism of God's dwelling, subtly underscore themes of divine strength, establishment, and God's sovereign work in history, particularly in the unfolding of His redemptive plan.
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