The question of how old Boaz was when he died is a common point of curiosity for those reading the Book of Ruth. Boaz is a significant figure in biblical history, forming a direct link in the lineage that leads to King David and, ultimately, to the Messiah. Exploring this biographical detail requires looking beyond the biblical text itself, which often prioritizes theological purpose over precise historical records.
Boaz in the Book of Ruth
Boaz is presented in the Book of Ruth as a wealthy and influential landowner from Bethlehem, a man of integrity and deep faith. He plays the role of the go’el, or kinsman-redeemer, for Naomi and her widowed daughter-in-law, Ruth. This legal and social role obligated the nearest adult male relative to act on behalf of a family member in need, such as purchasing sold land or marrying a childless widow to raise an heir.
His actions exemplify hesed, a Hebrew term denoting covenant loyalty and selfless kindness, particularly through his generosity toward Ruth as she gleaned in his fields. After the nearer kinsman declined, Boaz fulfilled the duties of the kinsman-redeemer by acquiring the land and marrying Ruth. This union was pivotal, as their son, Obed, became the grandfather of King David, securing Boaz’s place in the Messianic lineage.
The Absence of Explicit Biographical Timelines
The biblical account of Boaz’s life, while rich in moral and theological meaning, does not provide precise biographical data such as his date of birth or the age at which he died. This lack of specific dates is typical of ancient biblical narrative, which often emphasizes genealogy and theological purpose over a modern, chronological biography.
Determining his age is further complicated by the structure of the genealogies, which list only four generations between Boaz and King David: Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and David. This short four-generation span covers the entire period of the Judges, presenting a chronological challenge, as the time frame is estimated to be far too long for only four direct generations. Scholars suggest these genealogies may contain “gaps” or “skipped generations,” where the Hebrew word for “son” is used to mean “descendant,” making it impossible to calculate Boaz’s age at death from this data alone.
Scholarly and Traditional Lifespan Estimates
Because the scriptural text is silent on Boaz’s age at death, traditional Jewish commentary and scholarship have sought to fill the gap using interpretation. The most frequently cited traditional estimate, found in the Midrash, suggests Boaz was approximately 80 years old when he married Ruth, who was traditionally estimated to be around 40. This interpretation is supported by a verse where Boaz refers to Ruth as “my daughter,” suggesting a significant age difference.
A notable traditional account, also found in the Midrash, suggests that Boaz died very soon after his marriage to Ruth, perhaps the night after their union. This implies his life was sustained by providence until he fulfilled his mission to secure the lineage. While no definitive age is stated, traditional sources generally place his age at marriage around 80 and imply he died at an advanced age shortly after his son Obed was born.