10 Interesting Facts About Boaz in the Bible

Boaz is a powerful example of godly character in the Old Testament. His story is mainly found in the Book of Ruth, and it shows how faithfulness, kindness, and responsibility can change lives. Boaz wasn’t just a wealthy landowner—he was part of God’s bigger plan.

1. Boaz Lived During the Time of the Judges

Boaz lived in Bethlehem during the time of the judges (Ruth 1:1). This was a period of moral and spiritual decline in Israel. Yet Boaz stood out as a man of integrity and generosity in a time when many did what was right in their own eyes.

“In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” — Judges 21:25

2. Boaz Was a Wealthy Landowner

Boaz owned fields near Bethlehem and had many workers. He had the resources to bless others, but more importantly, he had the heart to do so (Ruth 2:1).

“Now Naomi had a relative of her husband’s, a worthy man of the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz.” — Ruth 2:1

3. Boaz Treated His Workers with Respect

Boaz greeted his workers kindly and invoked God’s blessing on them. His leadership style was godly and full of grace.

“And behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem. And he said to the reapers, ‘The Lord be with you!’ And they answered, ‘The Lord bless you.’” — Ruth 2:4

4. Boaz Took Notice of Ruth’s Character

Boaz was impressed not by Ruth’s looks or status but by her loyalty to Naomi and her hard work (Ruth 2:11). He valued her faithfulness and took time to speak words of encouragement.

“The Lord repay you for what you have done… under whose wings you have come to take refuge!” — Ruth 2:12

5. Boaz Protected and Provided for Ruth

He ensured that Ruth was safe among his workers and gave her extra food (Ruth 2:8–9, 15–16). Boaz went out of his way to care for her physical needs.

“And he said, ‘Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her.’” — Ruth 2:15

6. Boaz Was a “Kinsman-Redeemer”

In Jewish law, a close relative could redeem (buy back) land or marry a widow to preserve the family line. Boaz stepped into this role for Ruth, showing obedience to God's law and a heart for others.

“Then Boaz said, ‘The day you buy the field from the hand of Naomi, you also acquire Ruth the Moabite… to perpetuate the name of the dead.’” — Ruth 4:5

7. Boaz Acted with Honor and Patience

Even though he wanted to marry Ruth, Boaz waited for the closer relative to decline the right first. He did everything publicly and lawfully at the city gate (Ruth 4:1–10).

“Then he said to the redeemer, ‘Buy it for yourself.’ And he drew off his sandal.” — Ruth 4:8

8. Boaz Married Ruth and Had a Son Named Obed

Boaz and Ruth’s marriage brought joy and blessing. Their son Obed became the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:13–17).

“And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.” — Ruth 4:17

9. Boaz Is in the Genealogy of Jesus

Boaz is part of Jesus' family line. Matthew 1:5 names him as the father of Obed and the husband of Ruth, placing him in the genealogy of the Messiah.

“And Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth…” — Matthew 1:5

10. Boaz’s Mother Was Rahab

Boaz’s mother was likely Rahab, the woman from Jericho who hid the Israelite spies (Joshua 2). This means Boaz himself came from a mixed heritage—just like Ruth.

“By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish… because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.” — Hebrews 11:31

Summary Table: Boaz’s Key Traits and Actions