### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Matthát**, represented by `{{G3158}}`, is a proper name defined as probably a shortened form of Ματταθίας. The definition specifies that **Matthat** is the name of two Israelites. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively serving to identify individuals within a genealogy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{G3158}}` are found in the genealogy of Jesus presented in the Gospel of Luke. The name identifies two different men in the ancestral line. The first instance appears in [[Luke 3:24]], where **Matthat** is identified as the son of Levi and an ancestor of Joseph. The second instance is in [[Luke 3:29]], where another man named **Matthat**, also a son of Levi, is listed as the father of Jorim.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related names appear alongside **Matthát** in the genealogical record:
* `{{G3017}}` **Leuḯ** (Levi): This name is directly linked to **Matthat**, as both individuals named **Matthat** are identified as a "son of Levi" ([[Luke 3:24]], [[Luke 3:29]]). Its definition is "Levi, the name of three Israelites."
* `{{G2497}}` **Iōreím** (Jorim): This individual is listed as the direct son of the second **Matthat** [[Luke 3:29]]. The name is defined simply as "Jorim, an Israelite."
* `{{G3197}}` **Melchí** (Melchi): In the lineage of the first **Matthat**, Melchi is listed as his grandson [[Luke 3:24]]. The name is defined as "Melchi (i.e. Malki), the name of two Israelites."
* `{{G2501}}` **Iōsḗph** (Joseph): The lineage passing through the first **Matthat** eventually leads to Joseph [[Luke 3:24]]. The name is defined as "Joseph, the name of seven Israelites."
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G3158}}` is purely genealogical and structural. It does not carry theological weight on its own but is crucial for the integrity of the ancestral record.
* **Genealogical Link:** The primary role of **Matthat** is to serve as a specific link connecting generations in the lineage of Jesus as recorded in Luke's Gospel.
* **Historical Detail:** The presence of two distinct individuals named **Matthat** underscores the detailed and specific nature of the genealogy, highlighting that names could be repeated across different generations.
* **Ancestral Authentication:** By being part of this detailed list, the name contributes to the Bible's presentation of a historically-grounded lineage for Jesus.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3158}}` **Matthát** is a proper name whose sole function in the biblical narrative is to identify two ancestors within the Lukan genealogy. It is not a conceptual word but a specific marker of identity. Its importance lies in its contribution to the meticulous record-keeping that establishes the human ancestry of Jesus, demonstrating the detailed nature of the biblical genealogies.
TRV