Boaz

In the Book of Ruth, the widowed Ruth gleaned in the fields of Boaz, who had heard of her loyalty to Naomi. Boaz protected her, provided generously for her, and praised her for seeking refuge under the wings of the God of Israel. Naomi recognized Boaz as a potential family redeemer. At the threshing floor Ruth asked him to spread his garment over her, invoking his responsibility as redeemer. Boaz responded honorably but noted that a nearer relative had the first right. At the city gate that man declined, so Boaz publicly redeemed the family property and married Ruth. Their son Obed became father of Jesse and grandfather of David.