### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **margᵉlâh**, represented by `{{H4772}}`, refers to a **footpiece**, or directly, the **foot itself**. Though it appears only **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, its usage is significant, occurring in contexts of both profound human humility and awe-inspiring divine majesty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4772}}` is used in two distinct settings. The primary context is in the book of Ruth, where the word appears four times. Ruth is instructed by Naomi to go to the threshing floor, uncover the **feet** of Boaz, and lie down there as an act of petition ([[Ruth 3:4]], [[Ruth 3:7]]). This act is central to the narrative, as Boaz awakens at midnight to find a woman lying at his **feet** [[Ruth 3:8]], where she remains until the morning [[Ruth 3:14]]. The second context is in Daniel's vision of a celestial being, whose **feet** were "like in colour to polished brass" as part of a glorious and terrifying appearance [[Daniel 10:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the meaning of **margᵉlâh** in its contexts:
* `{{H1162}}` **Bôʻaz** (Boaz): As the ancestor of David, Boaz is the man of wealth and the kinsman to whom Ruth makes her appeal. It is at his **feet** she lies, establishing the personal and redemptive nature of the scene [[Ruth 3:7]].
* `{{H7901}}` **shâkab** (to lie down): This verb is intrinsically linked to the events in Ruth. The entire plan involves Boaz going to **lie down**, and Ruth in turn is instructed to **lay thee down** at his feet [[Ruth 3:4]].
* `{{H5178}}` **nᵉchôsheth** (brass): This word provides the specific visual detail for the feet in Daniel's vision. The comparison to polished **brass** contributes to the image of immense strength, purity, and splendor [[Daniel 10:6]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4772}}` is revealed in the themes it supports:
* **Submission and Petition:** The act of lying at someone's **feet** symbolizes a posture of profound humility and a request for protection or action. Ruth places herself at the **feet** of Boaz, silently and vulnerably making her appeal [[Ruth 3:8]].
* **A Place of Redemption:** The threshing floor, and specifically the **feet** of Boaz, becomes the setting where the course of Ruth's future is decided. Her action of lying at his **feet** initiates the conversation that leads to his redemptive action [[Ruth 3:14]].
* **Divine Glory and Stability:** In Daniel's vision, the description of the being's **feet** contributes to an overall image of unshakeable power and brilliant glory. Paired with a body like **beryl** and a face like **lightning**, the **feet** of polished brass signify a firm and majestic foundation [[Daniel 10:6]].
### Summary
In summary, **margᵉlâh** `{{H4772}}` is a term whose meaning is amplified by its context. While it simply means **feet**, it serves as a focal point for two very different biblical scenes. In Ruth, it represents a place of human submission and hope. In Daniel, it is an element of divine glory and power. The word's usage demonstrates how a simple term can anchor powerful narratives of both human redemption and heavenly majesty.
TRV