### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maṭmôwn**, represented by `{{H4301}}`, refers to a secreted valuable that is buried or hidden. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The word's definition as a secret storehouse or hidden riches points to things of great value that are not easily found, often consisting of money or other treasures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4301}}` illustrates concepts of value, desperation, and divine provision. It is presented as the object of a diligent search, as when one is admonished to search for wisdom as for **hid treasures** [[Proverbs 2:4]]. The great effort required to find such treasures is highlighted in Job, where the suffering dig for death more eagerly than for **hid treasures** [[Job 3:21]]. The term can refer to literal provisions, such as the **treasures** of wheat, barley, oil, and honey hidden in a field [[Jeremiah 41:8]]. It is also used to describe wealth given by God, as when Joseph's brothers find **treasure** in their sacks [[Genesis 43:23]], and when the Lord promises to give the **hidden riches** of secret places [[Isaiah 45:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H4301}}` by providing context for treasure and concealment:
* `{{H214}}` **ʼôwtsâr**: This word means a depository or storehouse. It often appears alongside `{{H4301}}`, as in the phrase "the **treasures** of darkness, and hidden riches" [[Isaiah 45:3]], distinguishing a general storehouse from a specifically hidden treasure.
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph**: Meaning silver or money, this word represents a common form of currency. In [[Genesis 43:23]], the steward reassures Joseph's brothers that he received their **money**, but that God had given them treasure `{{H4301}}` instead. Wisdom is also to be sought "as **silver**" [[Proverbs 2:4]].
* `{{H4565}}` **miçtâr**: This term for a secret place directly qualifies the nature of `{{H4301}}`. In [[Isaiah 45:3]], God promises "hidden riches of **secret places**," emphasizing that these treasures are deliberately concealed and can only be revealed by Him who knows all **secret places** [[Jeremiah 23:24]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H4301}}` is significant, highlighting what humans value and how God provides.
* **A Metaphor for Supreme Value:** The word is used metaphorically to represent something of the highest worth that requires an active and diligent search, such as wisdom [[Proverbs 2:4]].
* **An Object of Intense Seeking:** The effort one would expend to "dig for" **hid treasures** serves as the benchmark for extreme human desire, even when contrasted with a longing for death [[Job 3:21]].
* **Divine Revelation and Provision:** The source of these hidden treasures is often God. He is the one who gives **treasure** to Joseph's brothers [[Genesis 43:23]] and reveals the **hidden riches** of secret places as a sign of His sovereignty [[Isaiah 45:3]].
* **Tangible and Life-Sustaining Wealth:** The term also applies to literal, physical goods. The hidden stores of food in the field were valuable enough to be used to bargain for men's lives [[Jeremiah 41:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4301}}` defines more than just wealth; it signifies value that is hidden, requiring great effort or divine intervention to uncover. Whether referring to literal buried goods, money, or the ultimate prize of wisdom, **maṭmôwn** consistently points to a treasure that is secreted away. Its use in Scripture illustrates that the most valuable things are not always in plain sight and that God is the ultimate giver of all truly hidden riches.
TRV