### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
H4162 (môwtsâʼ) functions exclusively as a proper noun in the Hebrew Bible, transliterated as "Moza." Its meaning is derived from the closely related noun H4161 (mowtsa'), which signifies "a going forth," "an egress," "an outlet," or "a source." Therefore, the name "Moza" subtly conveys the idea of "forthcoming" or "source," though its primary function in the biblical text is identification rather than descriptive meaning. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to designating specific individuals within Israelite genealogies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name "Moza" appears in the genealogical records of the Chronicler, identifying two distinct individuals:
1. **A Descendant of Judah:** The first "Moza" is listed as a son of Iru, within the lineage of Caleb, son of Hezron, from the tribe of Judah: "And the sons of Caleb the son of Hezron were, Iru, Elah, and Naam: and the sons of Elah, Kenaz. And the sons of Iru, Moza, and Jether: and the sons of Jether, Jonathan." [[1 Chronicles 2:30-31]]. This Moza is part of the lineage of Judah, the tribe from which the Davidic dynasty and ultimately the Messiah would emerge, underscoring the meticulous preservation of tribal records crucial for messianic expectation.
2. **A Descendant of Benjamin (Saul's Line):** The second "Moza" is found within the lineage of King Saul, a descendant of Benjamin, through Jonathan: "And the sons of Jonathan were Merib-baal; and Merib-baal begat Micah. And the sons of Micah were Pithon, and Melech, and Tarea, and Ahaz. And Ahaz begat Jehoadah; and Jehoadah begat Alemeth, and Azmaveth, and Zimri; and Zimri begat Moza." [[1 Chronicles 8:35-36]]. This lineage is reiterated in [[1 Chronicles 9:41-42]]. These occurrences place Moza within the detailed tribal records of Benjamin, tracing the continuity of Saul's house.
In both instances, Moza is listed as a son within a patriarchal lineage. The biblical text provides no further narrative or descriptive information about these individuals, their actions, or their character. Their significance lies solely in their place within the continuity of their respective family lines, serving as a vital link in the genealogical chain.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation for H4162 is to H4161 (mowtsa'), which shares the identical lemma and root. H4161 itself derives from the verb H3318 (yatsa'), meaning "to go out," "to go forth," or "to proceed." This root emphasizes the concept of emergence, origin, or a point of departure.
The broader concept illuminated by the inclusion of names like Moza in Scripture is the profound importance of genealogy in ancient Israelite society and biblical literature. Genealogies served multiple critical functions: establishing tribal identity, confirming rights to land and inheritance, validating claims to priesthood or kingship, and crucially, tracing the lineage of the Messiah. The meticulous nature of these records reflects a deep cultural and theological concern for continuity and identity.
Furthermore, the act of naming, and the potential significance embedded within names, is a related concept. While the text does not elaborate on why these specific individuals were named "Moza," the underlying meaning of "forthcoming" or "source" could subtly allude to their role in perpetuating a family line or representing a new branch within it.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, H4162 does not carry inherent theological doctrine in itself. However, its presence within the divinely inspired genealogies speaks to several profound theological truths.
Firstly, the meticulous preservation of names like Moza within the biblical record highlights God's sovereignty and faithfulness in maintaining the covenant lines, particularly the Davidic lineage through Judah (relevant to the Moza in [[1 Chronicles 2:30-31]]). This careful tracing underscores the divine preparation and orchestration for the coming of the Messiah, demonstrating God's long-term plan for salvation history.
Secondly, the very act of naming in Scripture often reflects divine purpose or human expectation. While not explicitly stated for Moza, the etymological sense of "going forth" or "source" could be seen as a subtle indicator of God's ongoing work through generations, bringing forth new life and continuing the covenant promises. It suggests a divine recognition of each individual's place in the unfolding narrative of God's people.
Finally, the inclusion of such seemingly obscure names in the sacred text demonstrates God's comprehensive knowledge and meticulous care for every individual within His overarching plan, even those not prominent in narrative accounts. It affirms the intrinsic value of every link in the chain of salvation history and the divine providence that guides the course of human lineages.
### Summary
H4162 (môwtsâʼ), transliterated as "Moza," is a proper noun identifying two distinct individuals in the Old Testament genealogies. Derived from H4161 (mowtsa'), meaning "a going forth" or "source," the name subtly points to the concept of emergence or origin. The biblical occurrences of Moza are found exclusively in the genealogical lists of 1 Chronicles, placing him within the lineages of Judah and Benjamin. While no narrative is associated with these individuals, their inclusion underscores the critical importance of genealogical records in ancient Israel, serving to establish identity, inheritance, and crucially, to preserve the covenantal lines leading to the Messiah. The presence of such names in Scripture testifies to God's meticulous providence and faithfulness in orchestrating salvation history through generations, affirming the divine care for every individual within His eternal plan.
TRV