The son of Salmon and Rahab, and the father of Obed, by Ruth; of whom, by descent, after the flesh, sprung Christ. (See Matthew 1:5-6) I beg the reader not to overlook the grace of the Lord Jesus in this wonderful relation. Jesus will not only take our nature for the purpose of redemption, but he will take it from the lowest order of the people. Rahab was an harlot of the city of Jericho, cursed by Joshua, (Joshua 6:26) though famous for her faith in the Lord God of Israel; and Ruth a poor outcast of Moab. Both Gentiles, and yet brought into the genealogy of the Lord Jesus Christ. Was it to shew the astonishing condescension of Jesus? And was it not to shew also, that long before the great events of redemption were to be accomplished, the Jew and Gentile church were both in Christ? (Galatians 3:28-29)
See Harlot
Boaz (2)
One of the pillars in the porch of Solomon's temple, (1 Kings 7:21) It was on the left hand, as Jachin, the other pillar corresponding to it, was placed on the right. The names of both were significant. Jachin means, he that strengthens and makes steadfast. Boaz means, in it is strength and firmness. No doubt, they both were figurative of Him who condescends to call himself the Door; in whom, and by whom, unless an entrance be made into the temple, the same is "a thief and a robber." (John 10:8)
We are told these pillars were eighteen cubits high each of them, and twelve in circumference, 1 Kings 7:15. And from their magnificence, they formed no unapt resemblance of Him "who is the pillar and ground of the truth." (1 Timothy 3:15)