### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **môwdaʻath**, represented by `{{H4130}}`, defines a relationship of **acquaintance** or **kindred**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its importance, therefore, lies entirely within its specific context, where it signifies a crucial familial connection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4130}}` occurs in the book of Ruth. Naomi, speaking to Ruth, establishes Boaz's relationship to them by asking, "And now is not Boaz of our **kindred**, with whose maidens thou wast?" [[Ruth 3:2]]. This identification is the pivotal moment that sets the stage for Ruth to approach Boaz. The term is used to confirm a recognized, existing relationship that carries specific social and familial obligations within the narrative.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning and significance of **môwdaʻath**:
* `{{H1162}}` **Bôʻaz** (Boaz, the ancestor of David; also the name of a pillar in front of the temple; Boaz): Boaz is the individual identified as the **kindred** in [[Ruth 3:2]]. He is described as a "mighty man of wealth" and a kinsman of Naomi's husband [[Ruth 2:1]], providing the direct subject for the relationship described by `{{H4130}}`.
* `{{H5291}}` **naʻărâh** (a girl (from infancy to adolescence); damsel, maid(-en), young (woman)): This term refers to the **maidens** in Boaz's service with whom Ruth worked. Ruth's association with them provides the context for Naomi's statement about Boaz's role as **kindred** [[Ruth 3:2]].
* `{{H1637}}` **gôren** (a threshing-floor (as made even); by analogy, any open area; (barn, corn, threshing-) floor, (threshing-, void) place): The **threshingfloor** is the specific location where Boaz is working at night when Naomi sends Ruth to him. It serves as the setting where the kinship relationship declared in [[Ruth 3:2]] is acted upon.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4130}}` is derived entirely from its singular, critical function in the biblical narrative.
* **Establishment of Lineage:** The identification of Boaz as **kindred** is the catalyst for the events that lead to his marriage to Ruth and the continuation of her deceased husband's family line [[Ruth 4:13]].
* **Ancestry of David:** The relationship confirmed by this word has profound redemptive-historical importance. The definition of **Bôʻaz** `{{H1162}}` notes he is "the ancestor of David," meaning this declaration of kinship is essential for establishing the future royal lineage of Israel.
* **Fulfillment of Kinship:** The term is not simply a label but a basis for action. Naomi's statement prompts Ruth to approach Boaz, who then takes the necessary steps to fulfill the responsibilities associated with being a kinsman, ultimately taking Ruth as his wife [[Ruth 4:13]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4130}}` is one of the rarest words in the Old Testament, its single appearance is indispensable. The word **môwdaʻath** functions as the narrative hinge in the book of Ruth, formally establishing the relationship that secures the family line and, most significantly, paves the way for the ancestry of King David. It demonstrates how a single, precise word can carry immense weight and drive forward a key biblical story.
TRV