### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mûwk**, represented by `{{H4134}}`, is a primitive root used to describe the process of becoming thin or, figuratively, being impoverished. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses, where it specifically denotes the state of being or becoming poor. The term is central to laws concerning economic hardship and social responsibility within ancient Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{H4134}}` are found within the book of Leviticus, establishing a legal framework for addressing poverty. It describes the condition of a "brother" who has "waxen poor" [[Leviticus 25:35]], a state which may lead to dire consequences such as selling one's possessions [[Leviticus 25:25]] or even oneself into service ([[Leviticus 25:39]], [[Leviticus 25:47]]). The term is also used to assess an individual's financial standing in relation to a religious vow, where being "poorer" than a standard estimation required the priest to value them according to their ability [[Leviticus 27:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context surrounding impoverishment:
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (a brother): This word appears alongside `{{H4134}}` in nearly every instance, highlighting that these laws primarily concern the responsibility of Israelites toward their kinsmen who have become poor [[Leviticus 25:35]].
* `{{H4131}}` **môwṭ** (to waver; be fallen in decay): This term is used to describe the physical or economic instability that accompanies being "waxen poor," indicating a state of collapse or decay [[Leviticus 25:35]].
* `{{H4376}}` **mâkar** (to sell): This word denotes the desperate measure an impoverished person might take, such as when a brother who has become poor "hath sold away some of his possession" [[Leviticus 25:25]].
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (to strengthen, help, relieve): This is the prescribed response to a brother who has become poor. The law commands one to "relieve" him, showing a clear mandate for support and aid [[Leviticus 25:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4134}}` is rooted in the covenant laws of Israel.
* **Communal Responsibility:** The constant pairing of becoming poor with one's "brother" `{{H251}}` establishes a divine expectation for mutual support within the community. The command to "relieve" the poor is not a suggestion but a legal and moral obligation [[Leviticus 25:35]].
* **Economic Justice:** The laws triggered by a person becoming `{{H4134}}` poor are designed to prevent permanent destitution. Provisions for redeeming land [[Leviticus 25:25]] and prohibitions against treating an impoverished brother like a bondservant [[Leviticus 25:39]] reflect a divine framework for justice and restoration.
* **Compassionate Valuation:** In the context of religious vows, being `{{H4134}}` "poorer" is met with compassion. The priest is to adjust the valuation "according to his ability," demonstrating that God's law accounts for human vulnerability and financial hardship [[Leviticus 27:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4134}}` is a highly specific term for impoverishment found exclusively in the legal codes of Leviticus. It signifies more than a simple lack of wealth; it describes a state of vulnerability that could lead to the loss of property and personal freedom. The use of **mûwk** forms the basis for a theology of care, establishing laws of redemption and communal responsibility designed to protect the most vulnerable members of the covenant community.
TRV