or מַטְמֹן; or מַטְמֻן; from טָמַן; a secret storehouse; hence, a secreted valuable (buried); generally money; hidden riches, (hid) treasure(-s).
Transliteration:maṭmôwn
Pronunciation:mat-mone'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H4301}}` (maṭmôwn) derives from the root `{{H2934}}` (ṭāman), meaning "to hide," "to conceal," or "to bury." This etymological connection is crucial, as the core meaning of maṭmôwn inherently carries the sense of something intentionally put away from sight. Primarily, it refers to a "secret storehouse" or a "hidden place" where valuables are kept. By extension, the term then applies to the *contents* of such a place: "secreted valuables," "buried treasure," "hidden riches," or "money." The semantic range thus encompasses both the hidden location and the precious items concealed within it. The emphasis is always on the concealed nature of the valuable, suggesting either protection, security, or perhaps a temporary sequestration from view.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H4301}}` appears sparingly in the Hebrew Bible, but its occurrences are highly illustrative of its meaning:
* **[[Job 3:21]]**: In this lament, Job expresses a desire for death, describing it as a search "for it more than for hidden treasures" (maṭmôwn). Here, death is portrayed as something deeply desired and sought after, much like one would diligently search for a valuable, hidden cache. The context underscores the intense longing for something perceived as a ultimate release or good.
* **[[Proverbs 2:4]]**: This verse presents a pivotal metaphorical use. Wisdom is exhorted to be sought "as for silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures" (maṭmôwn). This simile elevates wisdom to the status of something supremely valuable, requiring diligent, persistent, and even arduous effort to acquire, akin to digging for buried wealth. The implication is that true wisdom is not superficial but profound, requiring deep investigation and commitment.
* **[[Jeremiah 41:8]]**: This passage provides a literal, practical application of maṭmôwn. During a chaotic period following the assassination of Gedaliah, ten men offer to spare their lives by revealing to Ishmael that they had "stores of wheat and barley and oil and honey hidden in the field." This clearly refers to provisions buried in the ground, likely for safekeeping during a time of war and instability, demonstrating the use of maṭmôwn for concealed, vital supplies.
* **[[Daniel 11:43]]**: In a prophetic context concerning the "King of the North," it is stated that he "shall have power over the treasures (maṭmôwn) of gold and of silver." Here, maṭmôwn refers to the accumulated wealth and resources of nations, which will come under the control of this powerful figure. While not explicitly "buried," the term retains the sense of highly valuable, concentrated wealth, perhaps held in treasuries or secure locations.
Across these contexts, maṭmôwn consistently denotes something of great value that is not openly displayed but rather concealed, whether literally buried or held in secure possession, and often requiring effort to obtain.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H4301}}` is its root, `{{H2934}}` (ṭāman), which directly signifies the act of hiding or burying. This root is found in various forms across the Hebrew Bible, always conveying the sense of concealment.
Other related concepts and terms include:
* **Wealth/Riches:** Words like `{{H6128}}` (ʿōšer, "riches, wealth") or `{{H2428}}` (ḥayil, "strength, wealth, substance") denote general prosperity but lack the specific nuance of being *hidden* that maṭmôwn possesses.
* **Storehouse/Treasury:** `{{H214}}` (ʾôṣār) refers to a general treasury or storehouse, which can contain valuables, but does not inherently imply the secrecy or burial associated with maṭmôwn. A maṭmôwn is a specific *type* of ʾôṣār—one that is concealed.
* **Wisdom/Knowledge:** In the metaphorical context of [[Proverbs 2:4]], maṭmôwn is conceptually linked to `{{H2451}}` (ḥokmâ, "wisdom") and `{{H1847}}` (daʿat, "knowledge"). The value of these spiritual attributes is equated with the most precious of earthly hidden treasures.
* **Seeking/Searching:** The verbs associated with finding maṭmôwn (e.g., "search for," "dig for") highlight the active and diligent effort required to acquire something precious, whether material or spiritual.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4301}}` is most profoundly expressed in its metaphorical application.
1. **The Value and Acquisition of Divine Wisdom:** The most prominent theological insight comes from [[Proverbs 2:4]]. By comparing wisdom to maṭmôwn, the text elevates divine wisdom to an extraordinary level of preciousness. It is not easily stumbled upon but requires fervent, diligent, and intentional seeking, much like one would exert great effort to unearth a buried fortune. This underscores the active role of the seeker in pursuing God's truth and understanding. The "hiddenness" implies that true wisdom is not superficial but deep, requiring spiritual discernment and commitment to God's ways.
2. **God's Provision and Sovereignty:** In instances like [[Jeremiah 41:8]], maṭmôwn speaks to the practical reality of human provision, often in times of crisis. While not directly attributed to divine action, the existence of such hidden provisions can be seen within the broader context of God's sovereign care, even through human foresight and diligence. In [[Daniel 11:43]], the control over "treasures" by earthly powers highlights the transient nature of worldly wealth and power, ultimately subject to God's overarching plan and judgment.
3. **Trust and Security:** While maṭmôwn itself is neutral, the act of hiding treasure can implicitly touch upon themes of where one places their security. The Bible often contrasts reliance on earthly riches (which can be stolen or lost) with trust in God. The very act of burying treasure suggests a desire for security, yet ultimately, true security resides in the Lord.
### Summary
`{{H4301}}` (maṭmôwn) refers to something valuable that is hidden, concealed, or buried. Rooted in `{{H2934}}` (ṭāman, "to hide"), its core meaning emphasizes the hidden nature of a precious commodity or a secret storehouse. Biblically, maṭmôwn is used literally for buried provisions or accumulated national wealth, highlighting its material value. More significantly, it is employed metaphorically in [[Proverbs 2:4]] to describe divine wisdom. This metaphorical use elevates wisdom to the status of a supremely valuable treasure that demands diligent, persistent, and arduous seeking. The term thus underscores not only the intrinsic worth of what is hidden but also the profound effort and commitment required to uncover it, particularly in the pursuit of God's profound and transformative truth.
TRV