The Greek word Mattathá, represented by G3160, is the name of an Israelite. The name is probably a shortened form of Ματταθίας. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, where it serves as a specific link in a genealogical record.
The sole appearance of Mattathá G3160 is in the genealogy of Jesus recorded in the Gospel of Luke. The name is listed as part of the lineage that traces Jesus's ancestry back through King David. In this context, Mattatha is identified as the son of Nathan and the father of Menan, placing him as a direct descendant of David Luke 3:31.
Several related words appear alongside Mattathá in its genealogical context:
- G3190 Meleâs: This name refers to an Israelite who was the grandson of Mattatha Luke 3:31.
- G3104 Maïnán: This name refers to an Israelite who was the son of Mattatha Luke 3:31.
- G3481 Nathán: This name refers to an Israelite who was the father of Mattatha and a son of David Luke 3:31.
- G1138 Dabíd: This name refers to David, the Israelite king. Mattatha is a descendant of David, linking Jesus to the royal line Luke 3:31.
The theological significance of G3160 is derived entirely from its placement within the messianic lineage.
- Genealogical Anchor: The name Mattathá serves as a specific, historical link in the meticulously recorded ancestry of Jesus Christ, demonstrating the continuity of the covenant line.
- Royal Lineage: As a descendant of Nathán G3481 and, therefore, of King Dabíd G1138, Mattatha's inclusion helps affirm Jesus's identity as the promised heir to "the throne of his father David" Luke 1:32.
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: This documented lineage substantiates the claim that Jesus was "made of the seed of David according to the flesh" Romans 1:3, a key component of his messianic credentials.
In summary, G3160 Mattathá is the name of an individual whose importance is found in his role as an ancestor of Jesus. While appearing only once, the name functions as a crucial part of the genealogical evidence presented in Luke's Gospel. It helps to formally connect Jesus to the royal line of Dabíd G1138, thereby substantiating a foundational aspect of New Testament theology regarding Christ's identity and heritage.
TRV