Boaz in the book of Ruth in Hebrew is referred to as the “go’el” which means Kinsman-Redeemer. This is significant because I believe Boaz is type for Christ. Foreshadowing what Jesus would do for all mankind through His death on the cross.

Boaz in this book shows great concern for the widow Naomi through his kindness towards Ruth who is now without her family (father), just as Jesus is the “go’el” of the widows and fatherless (Proverbs 23:10, 11).

Boaz pleads the case of Ruth and Naomi at the city gate. Just as Jesus will plead for His people (Jeremiah 50:34)

“As Boaz had the right of redemption and yet clearly was under no obligation to intervene on Ruth’s behalf, so it is with Christ. As Boaz, seeing the plight of the poor widows, came to their rescue because his life was governed by Yahweh and his laws, so also of the Messiah it is prophesied that his life would be governed by the law of God and that he would deal justly and equitably with the poor and with those who were oppressed (Ps. 72:2, 4, 12, 13; Isa. 11:4)” (The Levirate and Goel Institutions in the Old Testament With Special Attention to the Book of Ruth,Mack Publishing, 1974, p. 298).

Boaz illustrates the character of the one who would be he is descendant but also His Savior, as Jesus came from the line of Ruth and Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and David.

After the book of Judges where Godly character was hard to find, in the book of Ruth the illustrations of integrity are rich and full!

Tomorrow’s Reading: Psalms 27-29