Why is the conventional wisdom that Boaz was Ivtzan (per Bava Basra 91a) when other sources say he was not Ivtzan and in fact the story of Ruth happened in the time of Devorah, not later on? I was perusing the Art Scrolls Gemara of Bava Basra 91a. The other sources don't mention also that Boaz died immediately after marrying Ruth either. Thanks.
David Goldman, USA
Shalom Rav,
It is natural to quote the opinion cited in the Gemara, and it is also relevant that Targum Yonasan at the end of the Megilah also equates Boaz with Ivtzan.
In any event, people tend to quote a Midrash that they hear, even if it is a Da'as Yachid. The fact that other sources do not quote it has no bearing on conventional thinking.
Finally, Chazal have taught that everything, even a Sefer Torah in the Aron Kodesh, depends on "Mazal," and it is safe to assume that this extends to Midrashim, too.
One must also bear in mind that your questions and my answers, concern Midrashim that have no bearing on Halachah. Those that do receive more careful treatment.
B'Virchas Kol Tuv,
Eliezer Chrysler