In the Bible, the story of Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi is a powerful example of loyalty, love, and redemption. It’s a story that has captivated readers for centuries. But why did Boaz marry Ruth and not Naomi?
Let’s dive into the details and uncover the reasons behind this pivotal decision. Understanding the context and cultural significance of this union will shed light on the deeper meaning of this timeless tale.
Boaz and Ruth
Who Was Boaz in the Bible?
Boaz was a prominent figure in the Bible, specifically in the book of Ruth. He was a wealthy and respected man from Bethlehem. Boaz was known for his kindness and generosity towards others, as well as his adherence to the laws and customs of his community. He was a man of integrity and righteousness, which made him highly regarded among his peers.
Who was Ruth in the Bible?
Ruth, on the other hand, was a Moabite woman who became widowed after her husband’s death. She chose to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, instead of returning to her own people. Ruth’s loyalty and devotion to Naomi were remarkable, and she was willing to leave her homeland and embrace a new culture and faith.
Ruth’s character was defined by her humility, hard work, and unwavering faith in God. Despite her difficult circumstances, she remained steadfast and committed to doing what was right. Her story serves as a testament to the power of faith and the rewards that come from trusting in God’s plan.
Together, Boaz and Ruth form a significant part of the biblical narrative, showcasing the importance of love, faithfulness, and redemption. Their union not only brought them personal happiness but also played a crucial role in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Understanding their individual backgrounds and qualities helps us appreciate the depth and significance of their relationship.
Why Did Boaz Marry Ruth and Not Naomi?
The Circumstances of Boaz and Ruth’s Meeting and Marriage
Boaz and Ruth’s paths crossed when Ruth went to glean in Boaz’s field, as she was a foreigner and had no other means of providing for herself and Naomi. Ruth’s dedication and kindness towards her mother-in-law caught Boaz’s attention and impressed him. He saw her hard work and selflessness as she tirelessly collected grain to support their livelihood. Boaz was moved by her character and showed her favor and protection.
Boaz went above and beyond to ensure that Ruth had enough to sustain herself and Naomi. He instructed his workers to intentionally leave extra grain for Ruth to collect, ensuring that she would not go hungry. This act of kindness and generosity demonstrated Boaz’s admiration for Ruth and his willingness to provide for her.
The Reason Behind Boaz Marrying Ruth
Boaz’s decision to marry Ruth was rooted in his role as a kinsman-redeemer. In biblical times, the kinsman-redeemer was a male relative who had the responsibility to redeem or buy back property or marry a widow to continue the family line. Boaz, being a close relative of Naomi’s deceased husband, had the obligation to fulfill this role.
By marrying Ruth, Boaz fulfilled his duty as a kinsman-redeemer. He not only redeemed the property that belonged to Naomi’s family but also ensured the continuation of their family line. Boaz recognized Ruth’s worth and saw her as a suitable candidate to carry on the family legacy.
Why Boaz Could Not Marry Naomi
Despite Boaz’s close relationship with Naomi, he could not marry her due to cultural and legal restrictions. Marrying one’s mother-in-law was considered a violation of both the law and cultural norms during that time. Boaz’s responsibility as a kinsman-redeemer was specifically to marry Ruth and continue the family line, not to marry Naomi.
While Boaz held great respect and admiration for Naomi, his role as a kinsman-redeemer dictated that he marry Ruth. This decision was not based on personal preference or choice but on fulfilling the obligations and responsibilities that came with his position.
Understanding the cultural and legal context of Boaz and Ruth’s marriage helps us grasp the significance of their union. It was not merely a matter of personal preference or choice but a fulfillment of their respective roles and responsibilities.
Their marriage ultimately led to the birth of Obed, who became the grandfather of King David. This lineage continued, eventually leading to Jesus Christ, making Boaz and Ruth’s union an integral part of biblical history.
Closing Thoughts
The story of Boaz and Ruth is a beautiful testament to the power of faith, loyalty, and redemption. Boaz’s character is defined by his kindness, generosity, and adherence to God’s laws. His decision to marry Ruth was not based on personal preference but on fulfilling his role as a kinsman-redeemer. Boaz recognized Ruth’s worth and saw her as a suitable candidate to carry on the family legacy.
Understanding the cultural and legal context of their marriage helps us appreciate the significance of their union in biblical history. Boaz and Ruth’s story reminds us of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and the rewards that come from trusting in His plan.