# kin, kinfolk, kindred, kinsman

## Definition:

The term “kin” refers to a person’s blood relatives, considered as a group. The word “kinsman” refers specifically to a male relative.

* “Kin” can only refer to a person’s close relatives, such as parents and siblings, or it can also include more distant relatives, such as an aunts, uncles, or cousins.
* In ancient Israel, if a man died, his nearest male relative was expected to marry his widow, manage his property, and help carry on his family name. This relative was called a “kinsman-redeemer.”
* This term “kin” could also be translated as, “relative” or “family member.”
 
## Bible References:

* [Romans 16:9-11](rc://en/tn/help/rom/16/09)
* [Ruth 02:20](rc://en/tn/help/rut/02/20)
* [Ruth 03:09](rc://en/tn/help/rut/03/09)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H251, H1350, H4129, H4130, H7138, H7607, G4773
