“A Kinsman” - 1/10/25

 

As the second chapter of Ruth opens, we are introduced to a man named Boaz. He was “a kinsman of (Naomi’s) husband” (v. 1). This fact will become more significant as we read chapters three and four, but for now, we see this man described only as a “kinsman” and a “mighty man of wealth.”

 

This description stands out to me. In almost every other place in the Bible, the term “mighty man” is reserved for someone who is a soldier or has elite fighting skills. In this case, Boaz is described as a “mighty man of wealth.” Some other Bible versions use terms such as “rich man,” “prominent,” and the like. When we add to our study the fact that the name Boaz means “strength,” we see how he is living up to his name.

 

Boaz being a “kinsman” is significant because of what is said in Deuteronomy 25:5 and other places concerning the “Levirate Law.” He would have to perform this duty if he would save Mahlon’s bloodline. In the situation described in Ruth 1, this is the greatest thing that could happen to Naomi and Ruth.

 

 Thus, a kinsman like Boaz provides a great contrast with Ruth. He is a Hebrew, while she is a Gentile (Moabitess, 1:22, 2:2, 21, 4:5, 10). He is a “mighty man of wealth,” and she is poor. Boaz is a native to this land, and Ruth is a foreigner (2:10). Yet, as we continue to read, he will show kindness and love and make provisions for her (and Naomi) to survive in their situation (2:15-16, 3:15).

 

In this book, we can see a parallel between Boaz and Ruth and us with Christ. Our Lord Christ has strength while we are weak (Rom. 5:6; II Cor. 12:9; Rev. 5:12). He is rich while we are poor (II Cor. 8:9). He wants to save us from our current existence (Lk. 19:10; II Pet. 3:9). As Boaz will soon marry Ruth (4:13), so Christ is referred to as the groom, and the church (Christians) His bride (Eph. 5:22-33). In another comparison, we see that by becoming a Christian (Mk. 16:16), we are then considered “joint-heirs with Christ” (Rom. 8:17), i.e., we are “kinsmen” now!

 

Is Christ your “kinsman”? If not, why not? Become a Christian today (Acts 22:16) and have Christ save and bless you as His kin!

 

- Jarrod M. Jacobs