### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]]).
### Summary
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