בֹּעַז

Boaz, the ancestor of David; also the name of a pillar in front of the temple

Definition

Boaz is a proper noun referring primarily to a key figure in the Book of Ruth and, secondarily, to a significant architectural feature in Solomon's Temple. In the narrative of Ruth, Boaz is a wealthy and righteous landowner from Bethlehem who becomes the kinsman-redeemer (go'el) for Ruth the Moabitess, marrying her and becoming the great-grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:13, 21-22). This lineage places him directly in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). The name also designates one of the two large bronze pillars (the other named Jachin) that stood at the entrance of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 7:21; 2 Chronicles 3:17).

Biblical Usage

The name Boaz appears 22 times in the Old Testament, predominantly in the Book of Ruth (18 times), where it functions as the name of the central male protagonist. The remaining occurrences are in the historical books, specifically referring to the temple pillar (1 Kings 7:21; 2 Chronicles 3:17) and in genealogical records that trace David's ancestry (1 Chronicles 2:11-12). Its usage is exclusively as a proper noun for a person or a named object.

Etymology

The etymology of בֹּעַז (Boaz) is uncertain. It is traditionally understood to derive from a root meaning 'in him is strength' or 'swiftness,' though this is based on later interpretation rather than a clear, attested Hebrew root. Some scholars suggest a possible connection to an older Canaanite or Phoenician term, which might be reflected in its use for the strong, stable temple pillar.

Semantic Range

Boaz is a profound theological figure who embodies the concept of the kinsman-redeemer (go'el), a key theme that foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ. His faithful adherence to levirate law and covenant kindness (hesed) not only secures the lineage of David but also demonstrates God's providence in including Gentiles (like Ruth) in the messianic line. Understanding Boaz enriches reading by highlighting God's sovereign orchestration of redemption through ordinary acts of faithfulness and legal redemption.

As a kinsman-redeemer, Boaz's role was deeply embedded in Israelite family and property law (Leviticus 25:25, Deuteronomy 25:5-10). His actions to redeem Elimelech's land and marry Ruth were legal and social obligations that preserved a family's name and inheritance. The naming of the temple pillar 'Boaz' likely conveyed a symbolic meaning of strength and stability, possibly invoking the reputation of the ancestral figure, and reflected a common ancient Near Eastern practice of inscribing monumental architecture.

גֹּאֵל (go'el, H1350) — This is not a synonym for the name but the key role Boaz fulfills; it means 'redeemer' or 'kinsman-redeemer.' יָכִין (Jachin, H3199) — The name of the paired temple pillar, often mentioned alongside Boaz (1 Kings 7:21).

Word Details

Scripture References