The answer is: Kinsman of Elimelech

Ruth 2:1

Boaz is an intriguing and pivotal character in the Book of Ruth. He's not just a simple kinsman of Elimelech; he symbolizes hope, redemption, and the delicate social dynamics of ancient Israelite society. When Ruth, a Moabite widow, gleaned in his fields to support herself and her mother-in-law Naomi, Boaz noticed her dedication and kindness. This is more than a chance encounter; it's a divine intersection of lives!

What's fascinating is Boaz serves as a "kinsman-redeemer," which was a critical role in the ancient Israel context. If a family member fell into hardship or lost their land, this kinsman could step in to redeem what was lost, ensuring the family line continued. So, when he married Ruth, he wasn't just being generous; he was honoring family duty and preserving Elimelech's lineage. This really stresses the value that was placed upon family and community in ancient cultures—you might say it was all about familial responsibility!

Moreover, Ruth’s inclusion in the genealogy of David—and, by extension, the lineage of Jesus—shows how inclusive God's plans can be. A foreigner blossomed into a matriarch of faith! Fun fact: Boaz is often contrasted with the character of his more unscrupulous relative, who initially refused to redeem Ruth. This reminds us that honor can come from the most unexpected places and it's often the seemingly ordinary gut reactions that can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Spiritually, it's a beautiful ode to discernment and the human capacity to choose the rightful path—the heart of what we see in stories throughout the scripture!