**Boaz in the Old Testament**: Boaz is a central figure in the book of Ruth (Ruth 2–4). He is a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem and a relative of Naomi’s late husband, Elimelech. When Ruth (a Moabite and Naomi’s daughter-in-law) begins gleaning in his fields, Boaz shows kindness, protection, and generosity toward her. Eventually, Boaz fulfills the role of a kinsman-redeemer (“goel” in Hebrew) by marrying Ruth and redeeming her deceased husband’s family line and property. Boaz and Ruth become the great-grandparents of King [[David]] (Ruth 4:17), placing Boaz directly in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (see Matthew 1:5). ## How Boaz Symbolizes Jesus: Boaz is widely seen as a type (foreshadowing) of Christ in several key ways: ### 1. Kinsman-Redeemer (Goel) - Boaz willingly redeems Ruth, a foreigner, by marrying her and restoring her family’s inheritance. - Jesus is our Redeemer. He became our “kinsman” by taking on human flesh (John 1:14; Hebrews 2:14–17) and redeemed us from sin, death, and spiritual poverty (Galatians 3:13; Titus 2:14). ### 2. A Man of Integrity and Grace - Boaz treats Ruth with honor, respect, and protection, even though she is a marginalized outsider. - Jesus extended grace and dignity to sinners and outsiders (Luke 7:36–50; John 4). ### 3. Restorer of Hope and Lineag - Through Boaz, Ruth and Naomi are restored to a place of joy, security, and legacy. - Jesus restores our identity and gives us a new name, family, and future (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 1:5). ### 4. Marriage Imagery - The story ends with Boaz taking Ruth as his bride. - In the New Testament, Jesus is the Bridegroom and the Church is His bride (Ephesians 5:25–27; Revelation 19:7–9) ### 5. From Bethlehem - Boaz lived in Bethlehem. - Jesus was born in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy of the coming Messiah (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1). **Summary**: Boaz is more than just a generous landowner; he is a Christ-figure who shows how redemption, grace, and covenantal love look in action. His life points forward to the ultimate Redeemer—Jesus, who rescues not just individuals but all who trust in Him.