Why Didn't Boaz Marry Naomi? Exploring Ancient Marital Customs and the Levirate Law

The intriguing narrative in the Book of Ruth offers a clear insight into the complex customs and practices of ancient Jewish society, particularly regarding marriage and inheritance. A central question often arises: Why didn’t Boaz marry Naomi? This article delves into the cultural, legal, and social reasons behind Boaz’s choice, shedding light on the Levirate law and the roles of women in ancient Israelite society.

The Levirate Law and Its Implications

The Book of Ruth and the Law of Levirate marriage (as described in Deuteronomy 25:5-10) provide crucial context. The Levirate law mandated a man to marry his deceased brother’s widow to ensure the perpetuation of his brother’s line. The purpose was to preserve the family name and maintain the family’s inheritance.

Boaz and Ruth's Role in the Story

In the story, Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband, is initially willing to marry Ruth to fulfill her levirate obligations and ensure the redemptions of the family line (Ruth 3:12-13). However, he delays his intention, citing the presence of a closer relative who has the first right to perform this duty (Ruth 3:12-13). This relative, however, declines the offer, paving the way for Boaz to act (Ruth 4:1-12).

Understanding Boaz's Actions

Boaz’s choice to marry Ruth was driven by a sense of responsibility and duty, rather than an intent to marry Naomi. Ruth was the direct descendant of Naomi’s deceased husband and thus fitting for levirate marriage. Naomi, despite being recognized as a vital member of the community, was already past childbearing age and therefore not eligible for marriage that would produce an heir.

Reasons Behind Boaz’s Decision

Age and Fertility: The law required the creation of a male child to carry on the family name. Since Naomi was beyond childbearing age, Ruth became the logical choice for this purpose (Ruth 4:5, 6).

Property and Inheritance: The family property, especially the field and houses, were to be passed on to the heirs. Boaz aimed to ensure the continuation of the family lineage through a legitimate heir (Ruth 4:10).

Social and Legal Boundaries: Divine and legal obligations, as outlined in the Levirate law, were prioritized. Marrying Naomi would have violated the law and possibly nullified the legal process (Ruth 4:5-8).

Ethics and Morality: The honor and integrity of the family were paramount. Boaz’s actions were guided by ethical considerations, ensuring that the family line continued in moral and ethical clarity (Ruth 4:9).

Impact on Ruth’s Life

Ruth, the Moabite widow, was effectively redeemed through her marriage to Boaz. This union not only fulfilled the Levirate law but also secured Ruth’s position in the community and her future (Ruth 4:13-14). She, now joined to Boaz, became the mother of Obed, who would be remembered for perpetuating the family name and ensuring its continued existence.

Conclusion

Boaz did not marry Naomi for practical and ethical reasons that were deeply rooted in the cultural and legal norms of his time. His primary focus was on the perpetuation of the family line through a legitimate heir, ensuring that the family’s name and property remained intact. The story of Ruth and Boaz offers a profound insight into the roles and responsibilities of women, particularly widows, in ancient societies and the complexity of legal customs that governed their lives.

By understanding the Levirate law, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate balance of tradition, law, and social norms that shaped the ancient world. The narrative of Ruth and Boaz remains a testament to the enduring importance of these principles in maintaining the continuity of families and societies.