### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
**G3481 (Ναθάν)** is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name Nathan (`{{H5416}}`). Its etymological root is the Hebrew verb נָתַן (nathan, `{{H5414}}`), which means "to give," "to place," "to set," or "to permit." Therefore, the name Nathan inherently conveys the meaning "He has given" or "Gift of God." As a proper noun, its semantic scope is limited to identifying specific individuals bearing this name within the biblical narrative, with its deeper significance derived from its rich Hebrew etymology. It signifies divine benevolence and providence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
**G3481 (Ναθάν)** appears in the New Testament exclusively in the genealogy of Jesus, specifically in the Gospel of Luke.
* **[[Luke 3:31]]**: Here, Nathan is identified as the son of David and the father of Mattatha, tracing the lineage of Jesus through what is commonly understood as Mary's ancestral line, distinct from the Solomonic line presented in Matthew's Gospel. This inclusion is vital for establishing Jesus's legitimate claim to the Davidic throne, a cornerstone of messianic prophecy.
While **G3481** itself refers to this specific genealogical figure, the most prominent bearer of the name Nathan (`{{H5416}}`) in the Old Testament is the prophet Nathan, a key figure in the reign of King David. The prophet Nathan famously confronted David after his sin with Bathsheba ([[2 Samuel 12:1-15]]) and played a crucial role in securing Solomon's succession ([[1 Kings 1:8-45]]). Although distinct individuals, the prominence of the prophet Nathan underscores the significance of the name "Gift of God" in God's dealings with His people. The New Testament usage of **G3481** is purely genealogical, serving to affirm the fulfillment of God's covenant with David concerning an everlasting dynasty ([[2 Samuel 7:12-16]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H5416}}` (Natan)**: The direct Hebrew equivalent of Nathan, referring to various individuals in the Old Testament, most notably the prophet Nathan. This is the linguistic source of **G3481**.
* **`{{H5414}}` (nathan)**: The Hebrew verb "to give," which forms the root of the name Nathan. This root is fundamental to understanding the theological implications of the name.
* **Davidic Covenant**: The inclusion of Nathan in Luke's genealogy is inextricably linked to the Davidic Covenant ([[2 Samuel 7]]), which promised an eternal dynasty to David. Nathan's presence in this lineage affirms God's faithfulness to this foundational covenant.
* **Genealogy**: The primary context for **G3481** is the New Testament genealogies ([[Luke 3]], [[Matthew 1]]). These lists are not merely historical records but profound theological statements, demonstrating God's meticulous plan and the rightful lineage of the Messiah.
* **Prophecy**: While **G3481** refers to a genealogical ancestor, the most renowned Nathan (the prophet) embodies the concept of divine communication and God's active involvement in human affairs, representing a "gift" of revelation and truth.
### Theological Significance
The name Nathan, meaning "He has given" or "Gift of God," subtly yet powerfully points to the divine initiative in salvation history. It underscores God as the ultimate Giver—the giver of life, of covenants, of promises, and, supremely, of the Messiah. In the context of Luke's genealogy, Nathan's inclusion signifies the unbroken continuation of the divinely ordained Davidic line, through which the Messiah was prophesied to come. This emphasizes God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises, particularly the Davidic Covenant, demonstrating that the lineage leading to Christ is itself a profound divine gift. The prophet Nathan (`{{H5416}}`), though a different person, further exemplifies God's "gift" of prophetic insight and courage, delivering God's challenging and comforting words to King David. Ultimately, the presence of "Nathan" in the Messiah's lineage serves as a profound reminder that Jesus Christ Himself is the ultimate "Gift of God" to humanity ([[John 3:16]]), the fulfillment of all divine promises, and the perfect embodiment of God's boundless generosity.
### Summary
**G3481 (Ναθάν)** is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Nathan (`{{H5416}}`), meaning "He has given" or "Gift of God," derived from the Hebrew verb `{{H5414}}` ("to give"). Its sole New Testament occurrence is in [[Luke 3:31]], where Nathan appears in Jesus's genealogy, tracing a significant lineage back to King David. This genealogical inclusion is crucial for affirming Jesus's identity as the promised Messiah and the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant. While distinct from the Old Testament prophet Nathan, the name itself carries the profound theological implication of divine benevolence and provision, subtly highlighting God's faithfulness in orchestrating the lineage that would bring forth the Savior. The name "Nathan" thus serves as a quiet yet potent reminder that the entire plan of salvation, culminating in Christ, is God's ultimate and gracious gift to humanity.
TRV