### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Rhódē** `{{G4498}}`, meaning **Rhoda**, is defined as a servant girl and is likely derived from the word for a rose. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking a specific, singular moment in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Rhoda's sole appearance is in Acts, where she is identified as a **damsel** `{{G3814}}` who responded to the apostle Peter's `{{G4074}}` arrival. After being miraculously freed from prison, Peter `{{G4074}}` **knocked** `{{G2925}}` at the **door** `{{G2374}}` of the **gate** `{{G4440}}`. It was Rhoda who **came** `{{G4334}}` to **hearken** `{{G5219}}`, and she is identified by **name** `{{G3686}}` in this brief but significant event [[Acts 12:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Rhoda's role and the scene in which she appears:
* `{{G3814}}` **paidískē** (damsel): This word, meaning a female slave or servant, defines Rhoda's social standing. It is used elsewhere to distinguish between a **bondwoman** and a freewoman, highlighting themes of inheritance and promise [[Galatians 4:30]].
* `{{G5219}}` **hypakoúō** (to hearken): This term describes Rhoda's action of coming to the door to listen. It carries the deeper meaning "to heed or conform to a command or authority," and is used to call for the obedience of children to their parents [[Colossians 3:20]] and for obedience to the gospel [[2 Thessalonians 1:8]].
* `{{G4074}}` **Pétros** (Peter): The man Rhoda came to meet. As a foundational apostle, his very name means a (piece of) rock, and it was upon this "rock" that Christ promised to build his church [[Matthew 16:18]].
* `{{G2925}}` **kroúō** (knock): This word describes the physical act performed by Peter. The same term is used figuratively by Jesus to describe seeking God, who stands at the **door** `{{G2374}}` and knocks [[Revelation 3:20]].
### Theological Significance
While Rhoda is a minor figure, her brief mention carries theological weight by illustrating key principles.
* **The Importance of the Humble:** Rhoda is introduced as a **damsel** `{{G3814}}`, a servant girl. Her role as the first to witness the answer to the church's prayers for Peter's release demonstrates that God involves individuals of all social stations in His divine work.
* **The Act of Attentive Service:** Rhoda’s immediate response was to **hearken** `{{G5219}}`. This simple act of service placed her at the intersection of a miracle, showing that faithfulness in small duties can lead to participating in significant moments of God's plan.
* **Witness to Divine Power:** The context is Peter's `{{G4074}}` miraculous deliverance from prison [[Acts 12:7]]. Rhoda becomes the first human witness to this event, bridging the gap between the supernatural act and the community of believers.
### Summary
In summary, **Rhódē** `{{G4498}}` is more than just a name in a single verse. She represents the importance of the humble and faithful servant in God's narrative. Her story, encapsulated in [[Acts 12:13]], shows that a simple act of **hearkening** `{{G5219}}` can place an ordinary **damsel** `{{G3814}}` at the doorway of a divine deliverance, making her a quiet but memorable figure in the unfolding story of the early church.
TRV