from עָוַר with directive enclitic appended; downward, below or beneath; often adverbially with or without prefixes; beneath, down(-ward), less, very low, under(-neath).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maṭṭâh**, represented by `{{H4295}}`, is an adverbial term used to signify that which is **downward, below or beneath**. Appearing **19 times** across **18 unique verses**, its primary function is to indicate a lower position, a downward direction, or a lesser state. It is often used with prefixes and provides a crucial sense of spatial and hierarchical orientation in both literal and figurative contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4295}}` is used to establish clear contrasts and positions. It is frequently paired with its opposite to illustrate a state of being. For instance, in God's covenant blessings and curses, obedience leads to being the **head** and "above only," not **beneath** [[Deuteronomy 28:13]], while disobedience causes one to "come down very **low**" [[Deuteronomy 28:43]]. The term is also used in visions, describing the appearance of fire from the loins **downward** ([[Ezekiel 1:27]], [[Ezekiel 8:2]]), and in agricultural metaphors, where a remnant takes **root** **downward** to bear fruit upward [[2 Kings 19:30]]. In a literal sense, it provides instructions for constructing the tabernacle, specifying that parts should be placed **underneath** or **beneath** others ([[Exodus 28:27]], [[Exodus 38:4]]). It can also mean "less," as when Ezra confesses that God punished Israel **less** than their iniquities deserved [[Ezra 9:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concepts of position and direction associated with `{{H4295}}`:
* `{{H4605}}` **maʻal** (upward, above): As the direct antonym, this word signifies the upper part or an upward direction. It is frequently used in the same verse as **maṭṭâh** to create a stark contrast, such as being "above" versus "beneath" [[Deuteronomy 28:13]].
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (to descend): This root verb describes the action of going downwards. It is used to show the spirit of a **beast** going **downward** to the earth [[Ecclesiastes 3:21]] and a person coming down "very **low**" [[Deuteronomy 28:43]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (head): Representing the top, chief, or principal position, this word is often used to signify the superior status that is the opposite of being "beneath" [[Deuteronomy 28:13]].
* `{{H2180}}` **zânâb** (tail): Signifying the tail, this word is used figuratively to represent the lowest or most inferior position, in direct contrast to being the "head" [[Deuteronomy 28:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4295}}` is seen primarily through its use in contrasts that reveal spiritual truths.
* **Divine Order and Covenant:** The word is central to the covenant framework of blessings and curses. To be "beneath" `{{H4295}}` is a direct consequence of disobedience, a lowering of status and influence before God and others ([[Deuteronomy 28:13]], [[Deuteronomy 28:43]]).
* **Spiritual Paths and Destinations:** A clear distinction is made between the "way of life" which is `above` `{{H4605}}` and the path that departs from `hell` `{{H7585}}` `beneath` `{{H4295}}`. This positions **maṭṭâh** as a term related to the realm of death and separation from God [[Proverbs 15:24]].
* **God's Absolute Sovereignty:** The impossibility of searching out the foundations of the earth `beneath` `{{H4295}}` is used to illustrate the impossibility of God casting off His people, affirming His total authority over all creation [[Jeremiah 31:37]].
* **Principle of Spiritual Growth:** The remnant of Judah taking **root** `downward` `{{H4295}}` to bear `fruit` `{{H6529}}` `upward` `{{H4605}}` symbolizes that spiritual fruitfulness is dependent on a firm, unseen foundation [[Isaiah 37:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4295}}` is a significant directional term that carries both literal and profound figurative meaning. While it can simply mean **below** or **underneath** in physical descriptions, its greater impact is found in its theological application. It helps define the consequences of sin, the nature of spiritual life and death, and the absolute sovereignty of God. Through its contrast with what is "above," **maṭṭâh** reinforces a biblical worldview of divine order, where one's position is ultimately determined by their relationship with God.
TRV