Introducing the Hero: Who is Boaz Part II

Boaz’s first words in the book are “Hashem imachem” – “God be with you.” This introduction describes Boaz’s deep religious conviction. Why does Boaz arrive in the field in the first place? Perhaps the purpose of his visit is to examine whether his workers are maintaining Torah laws in the field? His treatment of Ruth is surprising – Boaz is the first to acknowledge her presence, while the people of Bethlehem and the reapers ignore her. Boaz’s behavior is a symbolic correction of prevalent behavior in the era of Judges.