The name Boaz has its roots in the Hebrew language and culture, dating back to ancient times. It is derived from the Hebrew word "בועז" (Bo'az), which means "swiftness" or "strength." The name is believed to have originated in the Middle East, particularly in the region now known as Israel, around the 12th century BC.

The name Boaz first appears in the Old Testament of the Bible, in the Book of Ruth. Boaz was a wealthy landowner from Bethlehem who showed kindness to Ruth, a Moabite woman who had come to live in Israel after the death of her husband. He eventually married her, and their union led to the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Boaz was Boaz the Bethlehemite, who lived during the period of the Judges, around the 11th century BC. He was a wealthy and influential man in Bethlehem and played a significant role in the biblical story of Ruth.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Boaz. One of the most famous was Boaz de' Benedetti (c. 1420–1500), an Italian Jewish scholar and author who contributed to the revival of Hebrew studies during the Renaissance period.

Another prominent individual with this name was Boaz Vaadia (1951–2021), an Israeli sculptor and artist known for his large-scale public installations and innovative use of various materials, including metal, stone, and glass.

In the 17th century, Boaz Behrens (1610–1689) was a German Lutheran theologian and philosopher who made significant contributions to the field of metaphysics.

During the 19th century, Boaz Bey (1813–1879) was an Ottoman statesman and reformer who played a crucial role in the modernization of the Ottoman Empire.

In the 20th century, Boaz Evron (1922–1995) was an Israeli diplomat and politician who served as the Director-General of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs and played a crucial role in the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt.