probably a shortened form of Ματταθίας (compare מַתַּתָּה); Mattatha (i.e. Mattithjah), an Israelite:--Mattatha.
Transliteration:Mattathá
Pronunciation:mat-tath-ah'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek proper noun Ματταθά (Mattathá, `{{G3160}}`) serves as a transliteration of a Hebrew name, likely a shortened form of Ματταθίας (Mattathias, compare `{{H4993}}`, Mattithiah or Mattattah). The etymological root of these names derives from the Hebrew מַתַּתָּה (Mattattah) or מַתִּתְיָהוּ (Mattithyahu), which literally means "gift of Yahweh" or "gift of the Lord." Thus, while Ματταθά itself is a specific personal name, its inherent semantic range points to the concept of divine beneficence and God's gracious provision. It is not a word with a broad conceptual meaning but rather a designation for an individual whose very name declares a theological truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Ματταθά (Mattathá, `{{G3160}}`) appears exclusively in the New Testament within the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded by Luke. Specifically, it is found in [[Luke 3:24]], where it identifies an ancestor in the lineage tracing back from Joseph to Adam. The verse states, "the son of Mattatha, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi..." In this context, Mattatha is presented as a link in the divinely orchestrated chain of generations leading to the Messiah. The genealogical record in Luke emphasizes Jesus' humanity and his connection to the broader sweep of human history, particularly through the line of David, highlighting God's faithfulness across generations. The inclusion of such names, even those without extensive narrative presence, underscores the meticulous preservation of the Messianic lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is Ματταθίας (Mattathias), the longer form from which Ματταθά is likely derived. This connection is significant because Mattathias is a prominent name in Jewish history, notably Mattathias Maccabeus, the priestly father of the Maccabean revolt, though not directly linked to the individual named Mattatha in Luke's genealogy. The underlying Hebrew roots, מַתַּתָּה (Mattattah) and מַתִּתְיָהוּ (Mattithyahu), further connect this name to the broader biblical theme of "gift." This theme resonates with concepts such as grace (God's unmerited favor), blessing (divine enablement or favor), and providence (God's sovereign oversight of history). The very act of God providing descendants and preserving a lineage is a testament to His gifting nature and covenant keeping.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Ματταθά (Mattathá, `{{G3160}}`) lies primarily in its place within the genealogy of Jesus, as presented in [[Luke 3]]. Its inclusion underscores the precise and intentional nature of God's plan for salvation, demonstrating His faithfulness in preserving the lineage through which the Messiah would come. The etymological meaning, "gift of Yahweh," subtly reinforces this divine orchestration. Each individual in the genealogy, including Mattatha, represents a link in God's covenant promises, a testament to His enduring grace and sovereign control over history. The fact that God "gifts" the world with the Savior through this specific, divinely appointed lineage highlights the profound truth that salvation is entirely a divine initiative, a gracious gift from God to humanity. This name, therefore, silently testifies to God's active involvement in the human story, meticulously preparing the way for the ultimate "gift" of His Son.
### Summary
Ματταθά (Mattathá, `{{G3160}}`) is a Greek proper noun, a transliteration of a Hebrew name meaning "gift of Yahweh." Its sole appearance in the New Testament is within the genealogy of Jesus Christ in [[Luke 3:24]], where it identifies an ancestor in the Messianic line. The name's presence in this sacred lineage highlights God's meticulous providence and faithfulness in preserving the covenant promises through specific individuals across generations. Both the name itself, signifying a divine gift, and its placement within the lineage, underscore the theological truth that the coming of the Messiah is entirely a sovereign and gracious act of God, the ultimate "gift" to humanity.
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