profile.bible
Portrait of BoazPortrait · Boaz

Judges · Old Testament

Boaz

Kinsman-Redeemer of Ruth

Name meaning
Swiftness or strength
Name origin
Hebrew: בֹּעַז (Boaz), commonly understood as "swiftness" or "strength"

Quick facts

Occupation
  • Landowner
  • Farmer
  • Elder at the gate
Birthplace
Bethlehem
Modern-day location
Bethlehem, in the present-day West Bank.
Family
  • Son of Salmon and Rahab (according to Matthew 1:5)
  • Husband of Ruth
  • Father of Obed
  • Ancestor of David
First mention
Ruth 2:1
Last mention
Ruth 4:13-22
Key artifacts
  • Harvest fields
  • Sandals of redemption transaction
  • Gate of Bethlehem

Key verses

  • “The LORD be with you. And they answered him, The LORD bless thee.”

    Ruth 2:4

  • “The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel.”

    Ruth 2:12

  • “Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman.”

    Ruth 4:14

Biography

Early Life

Boaz was a prominent, worthy man of Bethlehem during the time of the judges, known for integrity and kindness.

Defining Biblical Moments

Boaz protected Ruth as she gleaned, ensured her safety and provision, and then acted as kinsman-redeemer at the city gate, marrying Ruth and preserving Naomi's family line. Their son Obed became the grandfather of David.

Strengths

Boaz is portrayed as generous, just, respectful toward women and workers, and faithful to legal and covenant obligations.

Weaknesses & Lessons

The narrative presents him as exemplary; the focus is on how his character created security for vulnerable people.

Life Lessons for Today

Strength expressed through gentleness and generosity reflects God's redeeming character; integrity in business and community life protects the vulnerable.

Ask about Boaz

Have a question about Boaz or the Bible passages around them? Ask our study helper.

Ask anything about Boaz — their story, the passages around them, or what their life means for yours.

This study helper uses AI to answer from the profile. Answers may be imperfect — check important details against Scripture.

Continue reading

Boaz appears in Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament, alongside more profiles like this one.

Page #47 in Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament

Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament front cover

Profiles of faith, courage, and conviction

Meet the shepherds, warriors, kings, and psalmists of the Old Testament through respectful, story-driven character profiles.

Browse profiles

More characters