### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מַטְוֶה (maṭveh), Strong's number `{{H4299}}`, derives from the root טָוָה (ṭāvāh), Strong's number `{{H2966}}`, which means "to spin" or "to twist." Therefore, the core meaning of מַטְוֶה is "something spun" or "spun material." It refers to thread, yarn, or fibers that have been processed through the act of spinning, transforming raw material into a usable strand for weaving or other textile work. The semantic range is quite narrow, specifically denoting the product of the spinning process, emphasizing the act of creation from raw fibers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מַטְוֶה (maṭveh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Exodus 35:25]]. This singular occurrence is highly significant, as it is found within the detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The verse states: "And all the women who were wise-hearted spun with their hands, and brought what they had spun, the blue, the purple, the scarlet, and the fine linen."
In this context, מַטְוֶה refers to the finished threads of various colors—blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen—that were prepared by skilled women. These materials were essential for the curtains, veils, and garments of the Tabernacle, which were to be woven with intricate designs. The mention of "wise-hearted" women underscores that their skill in spinning was not merely a domestic chore but a divinely-inspired ability, dedicated to the sacred purpose of constructing God's dwelling place. The act of spinning itself was a fundamental step in producing the high-quality textiles required for the Tabernacle, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship and the communal effort involved in this holy endeavor.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verbal root טָוָה (ṭāvāh), Strong's number `{{H2966}}`, meaning "to spin." This root emphasizes the action from which מַטְוֶה (maṭveh) derives its meaning.
Other related concepts and terms in the context of the Tabernacle construction include:
* **Craftsmanship and Skill:** The phrase "wise-hearted" (חֲכַם־לֵב, ḥăḵam-lēḇ) is frequently used in Exodus to describe those endowed with divine skill for the Tabernacle work, such as Bezaleel and Oholiab (e.g., [[Exodus 31:6]], [[Exodus 35:10]], [[Exodus 36:1]]). This concept extends to the women spinners, indicating that their manual skill was also a God-given gift.
* **Materials:** The specific materials mentioned alongside מַטְוֶה—blue (תְּכֵלֶת, tekhelet), purple (אַרְגָּמָן, argāmān), scarlet (תּוֹלַעַת שָׁנִי, tôlaʿat shānî), and fine linen (שֵׁשׁ, shēsh)—are recurring motifs in the Tabernacle descriptions, signifying holiness, royalty, and purity.
* **Work and Contribution:** The word מַעֲשֶׂה (maʿaseh), Strong's number `{{H4639}}`, meaning "work" or "product," often describes the output of the craftsmen and women for the Tabernacle. The spun material is a tangible contribution to the overall divine project.
* **Weaving:** While מַטְוֶה refers to the spun thread, the subsequent process of weaving (e.g., אָרַג, 'ārag, Strong's number `{{H707}}`), was necessary to transform these threads into fabric.
### Theological Significance
Though appearing only once, the mention of מַטְוֶה (maṭveh) carries profound theological significance. It underscores the principle that *all* skills and contributions, even those seemingly mundane or domestic, can be consecrated and utilized for divine purposes. The women who spun were not merely performing a household task; they were participating actively in the sacred work of constructing God's dwelling. Their "wise hearts" signify that their ability to spin was a divine endowment, a gift from God enabling them to contribute to His glory.
This verse highlights the inclusive nature of service in God's kingdom, where every individual, regardless of gender or social standing, is called to offer their unique talents and labor for the worship of God. The meticulous preparation of the spun materials reflects God's demand for excellence and holiness in all aspects of worship and the sacred space. The beauty and quality of the spun threads contributed directly to the splendor of the Tabernacle, which was a physical manifestation of God's presence among His people, emphasizing the importance of detail and dedication in serving the Holy One.
### Summary
מַטְוֶה (maṭveh), Strong's number `{{H4299}}`, denotes "spun material," deriving from the verb "to spin." Its singular biblical occurrence in [[Exodus 35:25]] is highly significant, illustrating the essential role of skilled women in preparing the foundational threads—blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen—for the Tabernacle's textiles. This word highlights the consecration of everyday skills for sacred purposes, emphasizing that all gifts, even seemingly humble ones like spinning, are valued and divinely enabled when offered in service to God. It underscores the communal effort and meticulous detail required for the construction of God's dwelling, revealing the theological truth that every contribution, born of a "wise heart," contributes to the beauty and holiness of divine worship.
TRV