### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miṭpachath**, represented by `{{H4304}}`, refers to a **wide cloak (for a woman)**, translated as a **vail** or **wimple**. Derived from the root טָפַח, it is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the entire biblical text. Its meaning is tied to a large, versatile piece of female clothing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H4304}}` present it in contrasting contexts. In Ruth, the garment serves a practical purpose. Boaz instructs Ruth to bring her **vail** so he can fill it with six measures of barley, demonstrating its use as an article for carrying a substantial amount [[Ruth 3:15]]. In Isaiah, the term is translated as **wimples** and appears in a list of luxurious apparel, including mantles and changeable suits of apparel, which will be taken away by the Lord in judgment against the daughters of Zion [[Isaiah 3:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and context of `{{H4304}}`:
* `{{H270}}` **ʼâchaz** (to seize; hold): This word describes the physical action associated with the garment in Ruth's story. Ruth is commanded to **hold** her vail open to receive the barley, highlighting its use as a receptacle [[Ruth 3:15]].
* `{{H4058}}` **mâdad** (to stretch; measure): In the same passage, Boaz **measured** the barley he placed into the cloak, signifying a deliberate and generous act of provision that the garment was capable of containing [[Ruth 3:15]].
* `{{H4254}}` **machălâtsâh** (changeable suit of apparel): This term for fine clothing appears alongside **wimples** in Isaiah's prophecy, placing `{{H4304}}` firmly in the category of fashionable, and perhaps excessive, adornment [[Isaiah 3:22]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H4304}}` is derived from its dual contexts:
* **Instrument of Blessing and Provision:** In Ruth, the **vail** is not merely clothing but a vessel for receiving a blessing. It becomes the means by which Boaz provides for Ruth, filled with grain as a sign of his care and redemption [[Ruth 3:15]].
* **Symbol of Worldly Luxury:** In Isaiah, the **wimple** is listed as part of an inventory of finery that symbolizes vanity and pride. Its removal represents divine judgment against a focus on external, material status [[Isaiah 3:22]].
* **Contrast of Humility and Pride:** The two uses starkly contrast a garment used for a practical, humble purpose with one that represents worldly indulgence. It illustrates how a common object can signify either life-sustaining provision or material excess subject to judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4304}}` provides a focused look at a specific article of women's clothing. Though it appears only twice, its context in each instance is powerful. It functions both as a humble, practical tool for carrying life-giving sustenance in the narrative of Ruth and as a symbol of worldly luxury destined for removal in the prophecy of Isaiah. The word **miṭpachath** thus captures a duality, representing an object's value as either a means of humble provision or a mark of fleeting vanity.
TRV