The Greek word Matthán, represented by G3157, is an Israelite name of Hebrew origin. It appears 2 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. Its sole function is to identify a specific individual within a genealogical record.
The only biblical appearance of G3157 is in the lineage recorded in Matthew 1:15. In this context, Matthán is presented as a crucial link in the ancestral line. The passage establishes his direct parentage and progeny, stating, "Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob" Matthew 1:15. His name serves exclusively to connect one generation to the next within this list.
Several related words in the immediate context clarify Matthan's role in the genealogy:
- G1080 gennáō (to procreate... beget): This verb is central to the passage, establishing the act of fathering that connects each name in the lineage, including Eleazar to Matthan, and Matthan to Jacob Matthew 1:15.
- G1648 Eleázar (Eleazar, an Israelite): This is the name of Matthan's father, placing him immediately preceding Matthan in the genealogical record Matthew 1:15.
- G1664 Elioúd (Eliud, an Israelite): This is the name of Matthan's grandfather, the father of Eleazar Matthew 1:15.
- G2384 Iakṓb (Jacob... the progenitor of the Israelites): This is the name of Matthan's son. Matthan's role is to beget this pivotal figure in Israel's history Matthew 1:15.
- G1161 dé (but, and, etc.): This primary particle is used to connect the clauses, creating the continuous, flowing structure of the genealogy.
The theological weight of G3157 is understood through its context within the genealogy.
- Genealogical Continuity: Matthan's inclusion demonstrates the unbroken chain of lineage. The repetition of the verb gennáō G1080, meaning "to beget," emphasizes this role of generational connection.
- Link to Covenant History: By being the father of Iakṓb G2384, Matthan is directly linked to the progenitor of the Israelites. The name Jacob is associated with God's covenant promises and the "house of Jacob" over which a king will reign forever Luke 1:33.
- The Verb of Lineage: While gennáō G1080 is used here in its literal sense of procreation, the same word is used theologically elsewhere to mean being "born of God," connecting physical lineage to the concept of spiritual birth 1 John 5:4.
In summary, G3157 Matthán is not a term with broad conceptual meaning but the name of a specific individual. His importance is derived entirely from his placement within the genealogy of Matthew 1, where he serves as a vital link between his father, Eleazar, and his son, Jacob. The context of his name, particularly through the associated terms for "beget" and the mention of Jacob, ties him into the larger biblical theme of lineage and covenant history.
TRV