Ruth 2:1 Meaning: What 'Mighty Man of Wealth' Means
Naomi had a relative of her husband’s, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech, and his name was Boaz.
And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband’s, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz.
And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband’s, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech, and his name was Boaz.
And Naomi hath an acquaintance of her husband's, a man mighty in wealth, of the family of Elimelech, and his name is Boaz.
And Naomi had a relation of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech, and his name was Boaz.
Meaning in one sentence
Ruth 2:1 introduces Boaz as a 'mighty man of wealth,' describing his ability and character to serve as kinsman-redeemer for Naomi and Ruth.
Context
The book of Ruth opens during the time of the judges, a period of turmoil in Israel. Naomi, a widow from Bethlehem, has returned from Moab with her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth. They are poor, with no men to provide for them. Chapter 2 begins when Ruth asks to go glean in the fields to find food. Before her request leads anywhere, the narrator pauses to introduce a key figure: Boaz. He is a relative of Naomi's deceased husband Elimelech, described as a 'mighty man of wealth.' This verse sets the stage: God has already placed a capable man nearby who will become their redeemer. The rest of the chapter shows Boaz's kindness toward Ruth, fulfilling the hope this introduction raises.
Key Words
The phrase translated 'mighty man of wealth' comes from two Hebrew words: gibbor and chayil. Gibbor means strong or mighty, the same word used for warriors like Gideon. Chayil can mean wealth, but also strength, ability, and even valor. Together, they describe a person with both resources and character. The Bibles captures this when it calls Boaz 'a prominent man of noble character.' This is more than a financial statement; it prepares us to see a man who has the power and integrity to act as redeemer.
The word for 'relative' is moda, which literally means acquaintance or friend. Yet the story makes clear Boaz is a near kinsman, the one who can buy back the family land and marry Ruth. The narrator uses a gentle word, perhaps to show that Naomi had not been clinging to this connection. God brought the right person into view at the right time.
How Christians Read This Verse
Christians across traditions have seen this verse as more than an introduction. The Targum, an ancient Jewish paraphrase, reads 'mighty in the law,' highlighting Boaz's spiritual strength alongside his material wealth. Matthew Henry notes that being mighty in wealth and in Scripture is a rare and excellent combination. Many preachers and teachers see Boaz as a type of Christ, a kinsman-redeemer who willingly provides for the helpless. Others focus on the phrase 'noble character' as a model for godly living, especially for those with influence. Both readings point to the same truth: God uses people of substance and virtue to carry out His purposes.
A common misunderstanding
Some readers assume 'mighty man of wealth' only means Boaz was rich. In fact, the phrase gibbor chayil in the Old Testament usually describes a warrior or a person of valor (Judges 6:12, 1 Samuel 9:1). Here it combines financial resources with strength of character. Boaz is not merely wealthy; he is capable, honorable, and ready to act. The whole story depends on that deeper meaning.
Living This Out
This verse asks a quiet question: who has God placed in your circle who could help, and are you the kind of person who could be that help for someone else? You may not have great wealth, but you have strength, time, or kindness. Boaz used what he had for a vulnerable widow and a foreigner. This week, consider one person who needs what you can offer, a listening ear, a shared meal, a word of encouragement. Then do what is in your hand to do.
Main takeaway: God had already prepared a capable and virtuous redeemer for Naomi and Ruth, showing His care before they even asked.
For Families
For ages 5, 8
Boaz was a rich and good man. He was a relative of Naomi. God had a plan to help Naomi and Ruth, and Boaz was part of that plan.
For ages 9, 12
Boaz is introduced as a 'mighty man of wealth', not just rich, but strong and good. This description shows he had both the resources and the character to help Naomi and Ruth. God uses people like Boaz to care for those in need. You can ask God to help you be someone who uses your strengths to help others.
Questions People Ask
What does 'mighty man of wealth' mean in Ruth 2:1?
The phrase translates the Hebrew gibbor chayil, which describes a person of strength, ability, and resources. It means more than just financial wealth, it points to character, influence, and readiness to act. Boaz is a capable and honorable man.
Is Boaz a close relative or just an acquaintance?
The Hebrew word moda means acquaintance or friend, but the context shows Boaz is a near kinsman from Elimelech's family. The narrator uses a gentle term, perhaps because Naomi had not claimed the relationship. Later chapters reveal he is a goel, a kinsman-redeemer.
Why is Boaz's introduction important?
This verse tells the reader that help is already nearby before Ruth even goes to glean. It shifts the story from loss and emptiness to hope and provision. Boaz is God's answer to Naomi's sorrow, though she does not know it yet.
What does the name Boaz mean?
Scholars are not certain. Some take it as 'in him is strength,' while others suggest 'fleetness' or 'alacrity.' The name also appears for one of the pillars in Solomon's temple, suggesting stability and strength.
For pastors & researchers
Hebrew interlinear, 8 commentaries & word study